Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that feels like a warm hug on your plate, then these Garlic Mashed Potatoes are just what you need! Creamy, buttery, and infused with the delightful flavor of garlic, this recipe has been a family favorite for years. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner at home, these mashed potatoes will bring comfort and joy to your table.

What makes these Garlic Mashed Potatoes truly special is their simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to whip up. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll quickly become your go-to comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy cooks.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves creamy mashed potatoes! They’re sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare these potatoes in advance and reheat them for an effortless meal.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of garlic and buttery goodness elevates this classic side dish to new heights!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Garlic Mashed Potatoes call for simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need:

For the Potatoes

• 3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes (or Russet potatoes)

For the Creamy Mixture

• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup salted butter
• 8 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Add herbs: Stir in fresh herbs like chives or parsley for extra flavor.
• Make it creamy: For an indulgent version, replace whole milk with heavy cream.
• Try different flavors: Mix in roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, caramelized taste.
• Add cheese: Incorporate shredded cheese like cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesy twist.

How to Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing and scrubbing the 3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes. Chopping them into small chunks helps them cook evenly and quickly. It’s important to cut them into similar sizes so they’ll all be perfectly tender when they’re done.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Add the chopped potatoes to a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer until the potatoes are very soft when poked with a fork. This step ensures that the potatoes will mash easily and create that creamy texture we love!

Step 3: Infuse the Garlic Flavor

While the potatoes are cooking, combine ½ cup whole milk, ½ cup salted butter, 8 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp ground black pepper in a saucepan over low heat. Gently cooking this mixture allows the garlic to infuse its wonderful flavor into the milk without boiling it. This step takes about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Drain and Mix

Once the potatoes are cooked through and soft, drain them from the pot but leave them inside. Pour in the garlic milk mixture to the pot with the drained potatoes. Using either a hand masher or electric mixer, mix everything together just until combined. I personally love leaving a few small chunks for added texture; it gives those mashed potatoes character!

And there you have it—deliciously creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes that are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect Garlic Mashed Potatoes is all about technique and a few insider tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are creamy and buttery, while russet potatoes are fluffy. Mixing both can give you a delightful texture and flavor balance.

• Infuse the garlic well: Cooking the minced garlic in milk over low heat not only softens its sharpness but also allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a richer taste throughout your mashed potatoes.

• Don’t rush the mashing: When blending your potatoes, take your time. Mashing gently will ensure a light and fluffy texture rather than a gluey consistency that can happen if over-mixed.

• Adjust the creaminess: Feel free to experiment with the amount of milk or butter according to your preference. For creamier potatoes, add more milk little by little until you reach your desired texture.

• Seasoning is key: Tasting as you go is crucial! Don’t be afraid to adjust salt and pepper levels according to your personal taste—these seasonings can make all the difference.

How to Serve Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting side dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh chives: Sprinkling some fresh chives adds a pop of color and an extra layer of onion-like flavor that perfectly complements the garlic.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances richness and gives a beautiful sheen to your mashed potatoes.
• Grated parmesan alternative: For a cheesy finish without dairy, try using nutritional yeast or a plant-based parmesan alternative for that savory umami flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini make an excellent companion, adding both nutrition and visual appeal.
• Grilled chicken or tofu: A protein-rich option like grilled chicken or marinated tofu pairs wonderfully with garlic mashed potatoes for a balanced meal.
• Green salad: A light, crisp green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast that cuts through the creaminess of the mashed potatoes.
• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable adds fiber and nutrients while its slight crunch contrasts beautifully with the softness of the potatoes.

Now you’re all set to enjoy these irresistible Garlic Mashed Potatoes at your next meal! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, saving you precious moments during busy weeknights. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them so they’re just as delicious as when you first made them.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover garlic mashed potatoes in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
• Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the garlic mashed potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer them into a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Label the container with the date and use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if they seem too thick.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

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

Can I add more garlic to my Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more minced garlic cloves according to your taste. Just remember that roasting the garlic beforehand can give it a milder flavor if that’s what you prefer.

How do I make my Garlic Mashed Potatoes creamier?

To achieve creamier Garlic Mashed Potatoes, consider adding extra butter or whole milk while mashing. You can also use sour cream or cream cheese for added richness!

Can I prepare Garlic Mashed Potatoes in advance?

Yes! You can make these Garlic Mashed Potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storing and reheating instructions mentioned above.

What dishes pair well with Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Garlic Mashed Potatoes complement a variety of main dishes such as roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or even hearty plant-based proteins like lentil loaf.

Are these Garlic Mashed Potatoes suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! They store well and can be reheated easily, making them an excellent addition to your weekly meal prep routine.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these creamy and flavorful Garlic Mashed Potatoes! They are not just a side dish; they’re comfort food that brings warmth to any meal. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and textures as you create this delightful dish. Happy cooking!