Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than these creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes! This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and it never fails to bring smiles around the dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, these mashed potatoes are the perfect side dish that everyone loves. The rich flavor of garlic combined with the buttery goodness of potatoes makes this dish irresistibly delicious!

What I love most about this Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without all the fuss. Plus, they pair beautifully with just about any main course you can think of!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, these Garlic Mashed Potatoes come together quickly and effortlessly.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the creamy texture and delicious garlic flavor—perfect for any meal!
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them when you’re ready to serve, making your life easier on busy days.
• Versatile Pairing: These mashed potatoes complement a wide range of dishes—from roasted chicken to veggie burgers—ensuring they fit into any meal plan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Garlic Mashed Potatoes are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to make this delicious side dish!

For the Potatoes

• 3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes (or Russet potatoes)

For the Garlic Infusion

• ½ cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup salted butter
• 8 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try if you want to switch things up:

• Add Cheese: Stir in some grated parmesan or cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor!
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chives or rosemary after mashing for a burst of freshness.
• Creamy Swap: Use sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of milk for an even creamier texture.
• Garlic Lovers Unite: Roast the garlic before mincing it for a sweeter, more complex flavor.

How to Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing and scrubbing your 3 lbs of Yukon gold potatoes. Then chop them into small chunks. This step is crucial because cutting them evenly ensures they cook at the same rate, resulting in perfectly soft potatoes.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Add the chopped Yukon gold potatoes (or russet potatoes) to a large pot and cover them with water. Bring it to a boil before reducing it to a simmer. Let them cook until they are very soft when poked with a fork—this usually takes about 15 minutes. Cooking them thoroughly will help achieve that smooth, creamy texture we crave in mashed potatoes!

Step 3: Make the Garlic Mixture

While your potatoes are cooking, combine ½ cup whole milk, ½ cup salted butter, 8 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp ground black pepper in a saucepan over low heat. Gently cook it for about 3-4 minutes until you can smell that wonderful garlic aroma wafting through your kitchen! Be careful not to boil—the goal here is to infuse the milk with garlic flavor.

Step 4: Drain and Mix

Once your potatoes are cooked and soft, drain out the water. Pour in that delightful garlic milk mixture into the pot with your drained potatoes. Using either a hand masher or an electric mixer, mix everything together just until combined. Feel free to leave a few small chunks for added texture—it’s my personal favorite way to enjoy mashed potatoes!

With these simple steps, you’re on your way to serving up some comforting Garlic Mashed Potatoes that will warm hearts and fill bellies! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect garlic mashed potatoes is all about technique and personal flair. Here are some tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are creamy and buttery, while Russet potatoes give a fluffier texture. Depending on your preference, choose one that will give you the consistency you crave.

• Infuse the garlic properly: Cooking the minced garlic in milk over low heat allows its flavors to meld beautifully into the dish without becoming bitter. This step ensures that every bite is full of that delightful garlic goodness.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the potatoes and the garlic milk mixture, mix just until combined for a rustic texture. Overmixing can lead to gummy mashed potatoes, which no one wants!

• Adjust creaminess to taste: Feel free to add more milk or butter if you want your mashed potatoes creamier. It’s all about finding that perfect balance that suits your taste buds!

• Experiment with spices: Beyond salt and pepper, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or some fresh herbs like chives or parsley for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a simple way to customize your dish!

How to Serve Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile! You can present them in so many delightful ways to impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkling some chopped parsley or chives on top adds color and freshness, making your dish visually appealing.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and adds a beautiful sheen.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers brings a sweet crunch that complements the creamy potatoes perfectly.
• Grilled chicken breast: Marinated and grilled chicken adds protein while keeping the meal light and healthy, making it an excellent pairing with garlic mashed potatoes.
• Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans offer a refreshing contrast in texture and color while balancing out the richness of the mashed potatoes.
• Salad with vinaigrette: A simple mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette provides a bright acidity that cuts through the creaminess, creating a well-rounded meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to creating a comforting side dish that’s sure to be a hit at any table. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making them a wonderful option for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. You can easily prepare them in advance and enjoy their rich flavor throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Warm in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently. You can add a splash of milk if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
• Alternatively, use the microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

Can I make Garlic Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment.

What are some variations of Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like roasted garlic, cream cheese, or fresh herbs to enhance your Garlic Mashed Potatoes and tailor them to your taste!

How do I make Garlic Mashed Potatoes vegan?

You can make a delicious vegan version by substituting whole milk with plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and using vegan butter instead of regular butter.

Can I use other types of potatoes for Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Yes! While Yukon gold or Russet potatoes are ideal, you can also try other varieties like red potatoes for a slightly different texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Garlic Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They truly bring comfort and flavor to any meal. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every creamy bite, and feel free to share your experiences with me—happy cooking!