Creamy, buttery, and bursting with flavor, these garlic mashed potatoes are my go-to comfort food for every occasion. Whenever I want to impress guests or simply indulge in something soothing, whipped spuds infused with roasted garlic and rich cream come to the rescue. Rich in flavor yet simple to prepare, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
What sets these mashed potatoes apart is their velvety texture and the perfect balance of garlic and cream. It’s that irresistible combination of creamy and savory that everyone will love, making them a delightful addition to any meal.
Why you’ll love garlic mashed potatoes
- Quick and simple to prepare.
- Luxuriously creamy and flavorful.
- Great for feeding a crowd.
- Can be made ahead of time.
- Versatile side dish for any entrée.
What ingredients do I need for garlic mashed potatoes?
- 2 pounds of potatoes
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 cup of butter
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Chives for garnish (optional)
Ingredient notes & swaps:
- Any starchy potato works well, such as Russets or Yukon Golds.
- Substitute olive oil for butter for a dairy-free version.
- Use garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available, but fresh offers the best flavor.
How do I make garlic mashed potatoes step-by-step?
Making garlic mashed potatoes is straightforward. Start by peeling and chunking the potatoes. Boil them in salted water until they’re tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. In the last few minutes, add the garlic cloves to infuse their flavor. Once everything is cooked, drain and return them to the pot. Mix in butter and heavy cream, then mash to your preferred consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chives if desired.
- Peel and cut the potatoes into chunks.
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the garlic cloves to the pot.
- Drain the potatoes and garlic, then return them to the pot.
- Add butter and heavy cream, and mash until creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and garnish with chives if desired.
Pro Tip: To prevent watery mashed potatoes, make sure to drain them thoroughly before mashing.
How should I serve it?
Garlic mashed potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats, like chicken or beef, and are also a fantastic bed for savory gravies. To elevate your dish, consider a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of tanginess.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Absolutely! You can prepare garlic mashed potatoes a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of cream or milk and microwave or warm them gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently.
How do I fix common issues?
If your garlic mashed potatoes turn out too dry, add a bit more cream or butter and mix well. For bland potatoes, simply adjust with more salt and pepper. If they’re too watery, try simmering them on low heat to evaporate some moisture, stirring constantly.
What variations can I try?
For a twist, you could add roasted garlic for a sweeter, mellower flavor or incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary. Adding a splash of sour cream can introduce a delightful tanginess, while substitutions of different cheeses, like Parmesan or cream cheese, can yield a whole new profile.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes! While starchy potatoes like Russets are traditional for mash, waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds will yield a creamier texture. Just be aware that waxy potatoes may not mash as smoothly.
How can I make these healthier?
To lighten the dish, consider using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream, and reduce the butter amount. Adding steamed cauliflower to the potatoes can also increase volume while cutting calories.
Can I freeze garlic mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just let them cool completely, store in an airtight container, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftover garlic mashed potatoes can stay fresh for about 2 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain their quality!
Embrace the cozy comfort of garlic mashed potatoes, and you’ll have a dish that brings warmth to any table. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Method
- Peel and cut the potatoes into chunks.
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the garlic cloves to the pot.
- Drain the potatoes and garlic, then return them to the pot.
- Add butter and heavy cream, and mash until creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and garnish with chives if desired.