Step 1

Cut and add the potatoes to a pot of water. Fill a medium-sized stock pot with cold water. Peel the potatoes and cut them into large chunks (approximately 2 to 3 inch chunks). Add them to the pot with the water as you go.

Step 2

Cook the potatoes. Place the pot over high heat and bring to a boil. Reduce to low and simmer, uncovered, until the potatoes are tender (they should easily slide off fork prongs), about 15 minutes.

Step 3

Strain and mash. Strain the potatoes and place them in a medium to large mixing bowl. Use a large fork or potato masher to mash them. (They can be as smooth or as chunky as you'd like.)

Step 4

Add the remaining ingredients and serve. Add the butter as soon as possible so that it melts into the hot potatoes. Then add the half and half, salt and pepper, and mix only until everything is incorporated. Serve!