3 pounds potatoes
water to cover
salt
1/2 to 3/4 cup milk
6 tablespoons butter, room temperature
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Peel potatoes and cut into large pieces.
Cover and cook in boiling salted water for 15 to 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
Drain potatoes.
Put potatoes through a ricer or mash in a large mixing bowl until no lumps remain.
Add milk in small amounts, beating after each addition, until desired consistency is reached.
Add butter, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and pepper, beating until mashed potatoes are light and fluffy.