These garlic mashed potatoes are creamy, smooth, and full of flavor! With buttery potatoes and a hint of garlic, they make a tasty side dish for any meal.
Honestly, garlic in mashed potatoes is a game-changer! I love serving them with my favorite meats, and they disappear quickly. It’s hard not to go back for seconds. 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon gold potatoes are great choices. Russets are fluffy, while Yukons are creamy. If you’re in a pinch, red potatoes can also be used, but they might result in a denser mash.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that strong flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder, but start with a smaller amount since it’s more concentrated.
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich taste, but feel free to substitute with low-fat milk if you prefer. For a creamier texture, heavy cream or half-and-half works wonderfully!
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try using olive oil or a plant-based butter for similar richness.
Chives or Parsley: These herbs add freshness and color. If you don’t have these, any other herbs like rosemary or thyme can also brighten things up!
How Can I Get Creamy Mashed Potatoes Without Lumps?
Achieving that smooth texture is all about the technique! Here are some tips to avoid lumps:
- Use a potato masher for a rustic style or an electric mixer for super smooth potatoes. Just don’t overmix, or they can become gluey!
- Make sure the potatoes and garlic are boiled until soft to ensure easy mashing.
- Add the warm milk and butter mixture gradually, which helps the potatoes absorb the liquid better.
With these tips in hand, you’ll have the best creamy garlic mashed potatoes every time! Enjoy with your favorite main dishes.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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, plus extra for serving
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients, and then around 15-20 minutes cooking the potatoes and garlic until they’re nice and tender. It’s a quick and easy side dish to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes and Garlic:
Start by washing, peeling, and cutting the potatoes into chunks. Place the potato chunks and peeled garlic cloves into a large pot. Fill the pot with cold water, leaving about an inch above the ingredients, and add a pinch of salt to the water. This will help season the potatoes as they cook.
2. Boil and Cook:
Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer. You want to cook them until they are very tender, which will take about 15-20 minutes. You can check if they’re done by piercing a potato with a fork—it should go in easily.
3. Drain and Return:
Once the potatoes and garlic are tender, carefully drain them in a colander and then return them to the pot. This helps any excess steam escape, leading to a creamier mash.
4. Heat Milk and Butter:
In a small saucepan or microwave, gently heat the milk and butter together until the butter has melted and the mixture is warm. This step is important because it helps keep the mashed potatoes creamy.
5. Mash the Potatoes:
Using a potato masher or an electric mixer, mash the potatoes and garlic together until they are smooth and creamy. Be sure not to over-mix, as this can make your potatoes gluey.
6. Blend in Milk and Butter:
Gradually add the warm milk and butter mixture to the potatoes while stirring. Incorporate it until the mashed potatoes reach your desired consistency. If you like them creamier, feel free to add more milk!
7. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to season! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Give it a final mix to combine all the flavors.
8. Serve:
Transfer the creamy garlic mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Top with an extra pat of butter and a sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley for a beautiful presentation.
9. Enjoy!
Your delicious garlic mashed potatoes are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm as a delightful side dish to your favorite meals.
This recipe yields creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with a subtle roasted garlic flavor that enhances the dish without overpowering it. Enjoy!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While russet and Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for their creaminess, you can also use red potatoes for a slightly different texture. Just keep in mind that they may result in a denser mash.
Can I Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
How Do I Adjust the Creaminess Level?
If you prefer creamier mashed potatoes, add more milk or butter gradually until you reach the desired consistency. Heavy cream can also be used for an extra rich texture!
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover garlic mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.