Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, Buttery Perfection with a Bold Garlic Kick

There’s no side dish quite as comforting as a bowl of Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Creamy, buttery, and packed with savory garlic flavor, these mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether for a holiday feast, a family dinner, or a cozy weeknight, this recipe is a surefire way to elevate your dining experience with minimal effort.

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Number of Servings: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 cup

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fat: 10g
• Dietary Info: Vegetarian, can be made dairy-free by using non-dairy butter and milk alternatives.

Ingredients List

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk (or non-dairy milk for a dairy-free version)
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter (or non-dairy butter)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
• 1/2 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional for a cheesy twist)

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Boil the Potatoes:
   Peel the potatoes (if desired) and cut them into evenly sized chunks, about 1-2 inches thick. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
   While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Once cooked, remove the garlic butter from the heat and set aside.
3. Mash the Potatoes:
   Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash them less.
4. Add the Garlic Butter and Milk:
   Pour the garlic butter over the mashed potatoes, followed by the milk. Stir until the potatoes are smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you want extra creaminess, you can stir in sour cream at this stage.
5. Optional: Add Cheese and Garnish:
   For a cheesy garlic mash, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese. Then garnish the mashed potatoes with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Transfer the garlic mashed potatoes to a serving dish, and serve immediately. These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with everything from roasted meats to hearty stews.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Perfect Texture: For ultra-creamy mashed potatoes, try using a potato ricer or food mill instead of a masher. These tools create an extra-smooth texture without the need for a hand mixer.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can make garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time and reheat them just before serving. To do this, store the mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.
• Flavors: Experiment with different types of garlic. Roasting garlic before adding it to your mashed potatoes gives them a sweeter, milder flavor. Alternatively, add roasted garlic for an even deeper, more savory taste.
• For a Lighter Version: Swap out some or all of the butter and milk for chicken or vegetable broth to make the mashed potatoes a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use other types of potatoes for mashed potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use different types of potatoes, though the texture may vary. Yukon Gold potatoes are great for creamy mashed potatoes, while Russet potatoes are more starchy and can result in fluffier mashed potatoes.

Q: Can I make these mashed potatoes dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! Simply swap the butter for a dairy-free version and use a plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk) instead of regular milk. You can also omit the sour cream and cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.

Q: How can I make garlic mashed potatoes spicy?
A: If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic or stir in some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Q: How do I store leftover mashed potatoes?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze mashed potatoes for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra milk to restore the creaminess.

These Garlic Mashed Potatoes are everything you want in a side dish—creamy, rich, and bursting with savory garlic flavor. Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts, they’re a comfort food classic that’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve them alongside your favorite main course and enjoy the warm, satisfying flavors in every bite!