In my family, mashed potatoes are not just another side dish—they are a beloved tradition that brings everyone together around the table. No holiday meal or Sunday dinner feels complete without a big, comforting bowl of mashed potatoes sitting in the center. While I’ve tried to introduce healthier alternatives over the years, nothing ever quite matches the warm satisfaction of a perfectly creamy serving of mashed potatoes.

That is, until a game-changing tip I discovered on TikTok completely transformed how I make this family favorite.

Scrolling through TikTok one day, I came across user Jourdyn, known as @jeauxp, who shared an unconventional twist on traditional mashed potatoes: using chicken stock instead of the usual water or milk. This idea caught my attention immediately. Could something as simple as swapping out water for chicken stock really make that much of a difference? I was intrigued and decided to give it a try.

The Chicken Stock Revelation

To my surprise, the results were absolutely phenomenal. The chicken stock infused the potatoes with a subtle umami flavor that elevated the dish to an entirely new level. The flavor wasn’t overwhelming, but it added a richness and depth that made the mashed potatoes more savory and satisfying than ever before. What I love most is that this tip didn’t require much effort or extra ingredients, but the result was such a noticeable improvement.

Even better, I decided to leave the potato skins on while boiling—a technique I had always been hesitant to try. This turned out to be a fantastic decision. The skins added a rustic texture that made the mashed potatoes heartier and more interesting, without sacrificing the creamy smoothness everyone loves. Plus, leaving the skins on saves time during prep and adds extra nutrients to the dish.

Experimenting with Flavor

Inspired by this simple yet impactful change, I began to experiment with other variations to take my mashed potatoes to the next level. One of the most successful versions involved mixing in sour cream and fresh chives. The sour cream gave the potatoes a tangy, creamy richness, while the chives added a fresh, slightly sharp flavor that balanced out the dish perfectly. This combination quickly became a favorite at family dinners, and it’s now requested at nearly every gathering.

Another fun variation I tried involved adding roasted garlic. Roasting garlic brings out its natural sweetness and mellows its flavor, making it a perfect addition to mashed potatoes. I roasted a few cloves, mashed them up, and mixed them into the potatoes along with a generous pat of butter. The result was a rich, buttery, and slightly sweet dish that everyone loved.

Presentation Matters

It’s not just the flavor of mashed potatoes that matters—the presentation can make a big impact too. After all, we eat with our eyes first. I found that simply sprinkling some extra chives or adding a drizzle of olive oil on top before serving made the dish look as good as it tasted. Adding these little touches transformed my mashed potatoes from a humble side dish into something that looked gourmet.

Why This Simple Twist Works

At first glance, adding chicken stock to mashed potatoes might not seem like a groundbreaking idea, but it’s the perfect example of how small changes can make a big difference. The savory flavor of the stock complements the natural creaminess of the potatoes, while the added richness makes the dish feel more indulgent. It’s a tip that’s easy to incorporate and can elevate your mashed potatoes whether you’re serving them with a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast.

A New Family Tradition

Now, mashed potatoes made with chicken stock have become a new tradition in our family. The days of bland mashed potatoes are long gone, and every time I serve this new and improved version, I get compliments from everyone around the table. It’s funny how such a simple change can make a dish that has been a staple for years feel fresh and exciting again.

In the end, that’s what cooking is all about—taking familiar favorites and finding ways to make them even better. Whether it’s adding a new flavor, changing up the texture, or simply improving the presentation, it’s those little tweaks that keep things interesting and delicious. And thanks to TikTok and @jeauxp, I’ve found a way to make my family’s beloved mashed potatoes even more special than before.