Garlic mashed potatoes are a timeless classic that never fails to impress. The combination of creamy, buttery potatoes with the rich, aromatic flavor of garlic creates a side dish that’s both comforting and delicious.
Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty roast, a juicy steak, or a simple weeknight dinner, garlic mashed potatoes are always a hit.
This recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a go-to for any occasion. Let’s dive into the details and discover why garlic mashed potatoes are a beloved staple in many households.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of garlic and creamy potatoes creates a rich and flavorful side dish that’s irresistible.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
- Versatile: You can customize the garlic and seasonings to suit your preferences, making it a versatile side dish that’s sure to please.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a hit at family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings, ensuring that everyone will enjoy its delicious flavors.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Potatoes
Potatoes are the star of this recipe. Yukon Gold or russet varieties work best due to their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape when cooked. You can also use red potatoes for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Milk and Cream
Milk and cream add richness and creaminess to the mashed potatoes. You can use whole milk or a combination of milk and cream for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, use almond milk or coconut milk.
Butter
Butter provides richness and flavor to the mashed potatoes. You can use salted or unsalted butter, depending on your preference. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter.
Garlic
Garlic adds a rich, aromatic flavor to the mashed potatoes. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences. For a milder garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw minced garlic.
Fresh Parsley
Fresh parsley adds a bright and herbal note to the mashed potatoes. You can substitute it with other fresh herbs like chives or green onions for a different flavor profile.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 4 pounds about 8-10 large potatoes Yukon Gold or russet variety, peeled and quartered
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 stick 4 tablespoons butter
- 4-6 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Prepare the Garlic Cream Mixture: While the potatoes are boiling, heat the milk, heavy cream, and butter in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm. Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Drain the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them thoroughly and return them to the pot.
- Mash the Potatoes: Add the garlic cream mixture to the potatoes. Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Ensure the potatoes are fully cooked and tender before mashing for the best texture.
- You can adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste preferences.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of butter.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 4g
How to Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. This step ensures that the potatoes are fully cooked and ready to be mashed.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Cream Mixture
While the potatoes are boiling, heat the milk, heavy cream, and butter in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm. Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to infuse the flavors. This step creates a rich and creamy mixture that will be added to the potatoes.
Step 3: Drain the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are tender, drain them thoroughly and return them to the pot. This step ensures that the potatoes are ready to be mashed and combined with the garlic cream mixture.
Step 4: Mash the Potatoes
Add the garlic cream mixture to the potatoes. Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. This step ensures that the flavors and textures are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot. This step adds a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, making the dish even more enjoyable.
Expert Tips for Success
- Fully Cooked Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are fully cooked and tender before mashing. This helps to achieve a creamy and smooth texture in the mashed potatoes.
- Consistent Chopping: Chop the garlic into uniform sizes for even distribution of flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: You can adjust the consistency of the mashed potatoes by adding more milk, cream, or butter to achieve your desired texture.
- Customize Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and seasonings to customize the flavors to your liking.
Variations and Customizations
Dietary Modifications
- Vegan: Use plant-based milk, cream, and butter to make this dish vegan-friendly. Ensure all other ingredients are certified vegan.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your ingredient labels to be sure.
- Low-Fat: Use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of butter for a lighter version.
Flavor Twists
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives to the garlic cream mixture for an herbal note.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesy and creamy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the garlic cream mixture for a spicy twist.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Garlic Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the mashed potatoes are completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing
You can freeze the mashed potatoes for up to 2 months. Transfer the cooled mashed potatoes to a freezer-safe container and freeze until solid. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the mashed potatoes in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly. Add a splash of milk or cream to help retain moisture during reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Mashed Potatoes pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted Chicken: A classic pairing that’s perfect for a hearty and comforting meal.
- Grilled Steak: The rich and savory flavors of steak complement the creamy and garlicky notes of the mashed potatoes.
- Vegetable Side Dishes: Pair the mashed potatoes with other vegetable side dishes like sautéed spinach, roasted carrots, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this Garlic Mashed Potatoes, you might also like:
- Herbed Broccoli Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes infused with broccoli and fresh basil.
- Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes: A lighter and healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes made with cauliflower.
- Loaded Baked Potato Mashed Potatoes: Rich and indulgent mashed potatoes loaded with bacon, cheese, and green onions.
Conclusion
Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a classic and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its creamy texture, rich garlic flavor, and easy preparation, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a winner. Don’t forget to try out the variations and customizations to make it your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious Garlic Mashed Potatoes!