Don't let mashed potatoes scare you.  They are simple to make and are some of the best items to sit along side your main meal.

Just start with some smaller potatoes.  Just about any kind will work... reds or golds are the typical ones 

Rinse 'em off and slice them up into ~1/2" chunks

Place into some water and THEN bring them up to a boil for about 10 minutes.  You can check them with a knife.  Just poke them until they are soft

Drain them and put them back into the original pot.  The retained heat of the pot will keep them warm.  Then smash them all up, add some milk to get to the consistancy you like, season with salt, pepper and whatever else floats your boat.

Then just serve them along side your main meal... or as the main meal... it's up to you.

These are so simple and can be customized however you like.  Add some chives or some cheese or some bacon or some ham or whatever.

If you have a favorite way, let us know.