Garlic mashed potatoes are a creamy and flavorful side dish that everyone loves. With buttery potatoes and a hint of garlic, they make any meal feel special!
Honestly, who can resist the smell of garlic while these are cooking? I love serving them with a sprinkle of herbs on top. They’re so good, you might just want to eat them all by yourself! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I like using russet potatoes for their starchy texture, which results in creamy mashed potatoes. Yukon Golds are a great choice too, as they have a naturally buttery flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can even use red potatoes for a different taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that rich flavor. You can adjust the number of cloves based on your garlic love. In a rush? Garlic powder can work, but it won’t have the same punch. About 1/2 teaspoon should be enough.
Milk: Whole milk gives a nice creamy texture, but if you’re looking for something lighter, you can substitute with low-fat milk or even broth. Heavy cream will make it feel more indulgent if that’s what you prefer!
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the salt level better. If you’re dairy-free, swap it for olive oil or a vegan butter substitute. You can also add a splash of olive oil for a slightly different flavor!
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for Mashed Potatoes?
The texture of mashed potatoes is key for a delightful experience. Here’s my go-to method for achieving perfect creaminess:
- First, make sure to cook your potatoes thoroughly. A fork should easily pierce them without resistance.
- After draining, let them sit in the pot for a minute to steam off excess moisture—this prevents sogginess!
- Use a potato masher or ricer for the smoothest texture. Avoid a food processor, as it can turn your potatoes gummy.
- Warm the milk and butter before mixing in, as it helps create a silky smooth mash.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for richer texture)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious garlic mashed potatoes recipe takes about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 5-10 minutes prepping the ingredients and around 15-20 minutes cooking. In no time, you’ll be enjoying creamy, garlicky goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Potatoes and Garlic:
Start by placing the peeled and chopped potatoes and the whole garlic cloves in a large pot. Cover everything with cold water, ensuring there’s at least 1 inch of water above the potatoes. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the pot to a boil.
2. Cook Until Tender:
Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. Let it cook until the potatoes are super tender—about 15-20 minutes. You can check by poking them with a fork; they should break apart easily.
3. Warm the Milk and Butter:
While your potatoes cook, take a small saucepan and add the milk and 2 tablespoons of butter. Warm it over low heat until the butter is melted. Keep it warm while you finish up with the potatoes.
4. Drain and Dry:
Once the potatoes and garlic are done, carefully drain them in a colander. Then return them to the hot pot for a minute to allow excess moisture to evaporate. This step is important for avoiding watery potatoes!
5. Mash the Potatoes:
Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes and garlic together until smooth. Make sure to get out any lumps for that dreamy creamy texture!
6. Mix in Milk and Butter:
Gradually Stir in the warm milk and butter mixture until everything is creamy and smooth. Be sure to taste it and add salt and pepper to your liking—it’s all about your personal preference!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer your delicious garlic mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Top them with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and sprinkle with fresh chives or parsley for a lovely touch. 📸
8. Enjoy!
Serve your garlic mashed potatoes warm and enjoy every rich, garlicky bite! They’re perfect alongside meats, veggies, or just about anything!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet and Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for creamy mashed potatoes, you can also use red potatoes for a slightly different flavor. Just keep in mind that they may not be as fluffy.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No worries! You can substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder. Use about 1/2 teaspoon for every clove of garlic. Just be aware that it won’t have the same robust flavor, but it will still be tasty!
How Can I Make These Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance! Make them up to a day ahead, then let them cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or butter to bring back the creaminess.
Can I Freeze Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes! Pack them in an airtight container or freezer bag, leaving some space for expansion. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove, stirring in a little milk or butter to restore the texture.
