Garlic mashed potatoes are creamy, buttery, and full of flavor! With roasted garlic mixed in, they make the perfect side dish for just about any meal.
Making these is super easy! Just boil, mash, and stir in that garlic goodness. They never fail to impress, and honestly, who doesn’t love a fluffy scoop of these? 🥔💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for the best texture. If you’re in a pinch, red potatoes can work too, but they may yield a chunkier mash.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that bold flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder instead, but nothing beats the taste of roasted garlic if you have time.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess, but feel free to substitute with half-and-half or even a plant-based milk alternative like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using olive oil, which can add a nice flavor twist!
How Do I Ensure My Mashed Potatoes Are Extra Creamy?
The key to creamy mashed potatoes is in how you handle them after cooking. Here’s how to do it right!
- After boiling and draining the potatoes, let them sit in the hot pot for a minute. This will release any excess moisture.
- Use a potato masher or ricer for a smoother texture. A ricer will give you the fluffiest results.
- Warm your milk and butter together before adding them to the potatoes. This keeps everything creamy rather than cooling down the mix.
- Mix gently! Over-mixing can make them gluey, so stir just until combined.
With these tips, your garlic mashed potatoes will be irresistibly creamy and delicious!
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 (warm)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total, including 20 minutes for cooking the potatoes and garlic, and about 10 minutes for mashing and mixing everything together. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet indulgent enough for a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Potatoes and Garlic:
Start by placing the peeled and chopped potatoes along with the garlic in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add a pinch of salt. This helps to season the potatoes as they cook. Bring everything to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking until the potatoes are very tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and Dry:
Carefully drain the potatoes and garlic in a colander. Return them to the hot pot and let them sit for a minute off the heat. This will help evaporate excess moisture, leading to creamier mashed potatoes.
3. Mash Away:
Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes and garlic together until they reach your desired smoothness. If you like a little texture, you can leave them slightly chunky!
4. Add Milk and Butter:
In a small saucepan, warm the milk and butter together until the butter has melted. Slowly pour this warm mixture into the mashed potatoes, stirring gently until everything is creamy and well combined. Be careful not to over-mix to keep the potatoes light and fluffy.
5. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to season! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Stir until evenly distributed.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the creamy garlic mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. If you’re feeling fancy, add a small pat of butter on top and sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh touch. They’re ready to be enjoyed hot!
Enjoy your creamy, buttery garlic mashed potatoes! They make an excellent side for any meal and are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While russet and Yukon gold potatoes are the best choices for their creaminess, you can also use red potatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that they will yield a slightly chunkier texture.
How Can I Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the butter with a non-dairy butter or olive oil, and replace the whole milk with a plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. You’ll still get delicious and creamy mashed potatoes!
Can I Prepare Mashed Potatoes in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time, then let them cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring in a little extra milk or butter to freshen them up.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. You may want to add a splash of milk to restore creaminess!
