8 cups peeled and diced russet potatoes or 8 cups diced red potatoes with skins on.
Cover potatoes with water and cook for about 30 minutes or until very soft. Remove from heat and drain off most of the water into a measuring cup. Immediately mash with a potato masher, adding more of the cooking water as needed, until they are smooth and fluffy.
Mix in 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste. Use onion or garlic powder, or fresh minced onion or garlic for added flavor.