Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that brings warmth and joy to any meal, these Garlic Mashed Potatoes are just the ticket! This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and it never fails to impress. The creamy texture combined with the rich flavor of garlic makes it perfect for everything from busy weeknight dinners to festive family gatherings.

What I love most about these Garlic Mashed Potatoes is how simple they are to whip up. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without all the fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a handful of straightforward steps, you can achieve creamy perfection in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare these potatoes ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready to serve—perfect for busy days!
• Delicious flavor: The infusion of garlic elevates traditional mashed potatoes into something truly special.
• Versatile side dish: These Garlic Mashed Potatoes pair beautifully with almost any main course.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to make the best Garlic Mashed Potatoes ever!

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes (or Russet potatoes)
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup salted butter
• 8 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment and make it your own.

• Add some cheese: Stir in your favorite cheese, like cheddar or Parmesan, for an extra cheesy twist.
• Herb it up: Add fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a burst of freshness and color.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute almond milk and vegan butter for a delicious plant-based option.
• Spice it up: Mix in some roasted garlic or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick!

How to Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing and scrubbing the 3 lbs of Yukon gold potatoes. Chopping them into small chunks helps them cook evenly and quickly. A good boil will make them soft enough to mash smoothly later on.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the pot to a boil and then reduce it to let it simmer. This step is crucial because cooking them until they’re very soft ensures that your mashed potatoes will be creamy rather than lumpy.

Step 3: Infuse the Garlic

While your potatoes are cooking, take a saucepan and add ½ cup whole milk, ½ cup salted butter, 8 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp ground black pepper. Heat this mixture over low heat. Gently cooking allows the garlic flavors to infuse without boiling the milk, which helps create that rich taste we love.

Step 4: Drain and Mash

Once your potatoes are cooked, drain the water but leave them in the pot. Pour in your warm garlic milk mixture. Using either a hand masher or an electric mixer, mix everything together until just combined. Don’t worry if there are still a few small chunks; they add great texture!

Now you have delightful Garlic Mashed Potatoes ready to serve alongside your favorite main dishes! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect garlic mashed potatoes is all about technique and love! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish is creamy, flavorful, and downright delicious.

• Choose the right potatoes: Using Yukon gold or Russet potatoes gives you a creamy texture. Yukon golds have a buttery flavor, while Russets are fluffy when cooked.

• Don’t rush the cooking process: Ensure your potatoes are very soft before mashing. This will make it easier to achieve that smooth consistency you want.

• Infuse your milk and butter: Gently heating the milk and butter with garlic allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It enhances the overall taste of your mashed potatoes.

• Leave some chunks for texture: If you enjoy a bit of bite in your mashed potatoes, don’t overmix! Leaving small chunks adds interest and makes the dish feel more rustic.

• Taste as you go: Seasoning is key! Taste your mashed potatoes before serving and adjust salt or garlic if needed to suit your preferences.

How to Serve Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes can be both comforting and elegant, making them perfect for any meal. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds color and a mild onion flavor that complements the garlic beautifully.
• Shredded cheese: A handful of shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella on top will melt slightly and contribute a rich flavor.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil not only enhances richness but also adds visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers, bring vibrant colors and earthy flavors that balance the creaminess of the potatoes.
• Grilled chicken: Simple grilled chicken seasoned with herbs pairs perfectly with garlic mashed potatoes for a healthy protein option.
• Green salad: A fresh green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the heaviness of the mashed potatoes.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while providing crunch to complement the soft texture of mashed potatoes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your garlic mashed potatoes will not only be tasty but also a standout dish at any table! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making them a convenient choice for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings. You can easily prepare them ahead of time, so you can enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the mashed potatoes cool completely.
• Portion them into freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warm, or use a microwave on medium power.
• Add a splash of milk or a bit of butter to restore creaminess while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Garlic Mashed Potatoes that might help you out!

Can I make Garlic Mashed Potatoes without dairy?

Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or oat milk, and use vegan butter instead of regular butter for a delicious dairy-free version.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

To elevate your Garlic Mashed Potatoes, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or chives, or incorporate roasted garlic for an even richer flavor.

What can I serve with Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Garlic Mashed Potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables, roasted chicken, or a hearty salad as part of your meal. They are versatile enough to complement any main dish!

How long do Garlic Mashed Potatoes last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Garlic Mashed Potatoes will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat them with a little extra milk or butter for best results!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this recipe for Garlic Mashed Potatoes as comforting and satisfying as I do! It’s such a simple dish that brings everyone together around the table. Enjoy making this delightful side dish and share it with your family and friends. Happy cooking!