for a small gathering

4-6 russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup milk or chicken broth
1-2 tablespoons butter, if desired
salt and pepper to taste

Place potatoes and water in "ugly pot". Cover. Microwave on high, using 5-6 minutes per pound of potatoes as a guide, or until tender. When ready to mash or whip, heat the milk or broth with the butter, salt, and pepper in microwave oven on high 1 minute. Mash, adding warmed milk and butter to taste. You can make ahead of time and put in microwave safe bowl, cover and set aside. Simply microwave until hot to serve.