Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both comforting and delicious, you’ve come to the right place! Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a staple in my home, and they never fail to bring smiles at the dinner table. The creamy texture combined with the rich flavor of garlic makes these potatoes a standout comfort food. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone!

These Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. You’ll find yourself making this recipe time and again because it pairs perfectly with everything from roasted vegetables to your favorite proteins.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious side dish in no time!
• Family favorite: These creamy, garlicky mashed potatoes are loved by both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make them ahead and reheat! They taste just as good the next day.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for an extra twist on flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that these Garlic Mashed Potatoes come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Potatoes

• 3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes (or Russet potatoes)

For the Garlic Mixture

• ½ cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup salted butter
• 8 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to play around with different flavors! Here are some fun ideas:

• Add cheese: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan for an extra cheesy kick!
• Herb-infused: Mix in fresh herbs like chives or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
• Creamy alternative: Replace whole milk with heavy cream or plant-based milk for a different texture.
• Roasted garlic: Substitute fresh garlic with roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.

How to Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing and scrubbing the 3 lbs of Yukon gold potatoes. Chop them into small chunks so they cook evenly. This step is crucial because smaller pieces will soften faster, making your mashing process much easier.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Add the chopped potatoes to a large pot and cover them with water. Bring it all to a boil, then reduce the heat so it simmers gently. We want those potatoes super soft—just poke them with a fork after about 15 minutes. This is when they’re ready for mashing!

Step 3: Infuse the Garlic Flavor

While your potatoes are cooking away, grab a saucepan. Combine ½ cup whole milk, ½ cup salted butter, 8 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp ground black pepper. Heat it gently over low heat for about 3-4 minutes until the garlic releases its lovely aroma without boiling. This step ensures that your mashed potatoes are bursting with flavor!

Step 4: Drain and Mash

Once your potatoes are nice and soft, drain the water but keep those fluffy beauties in the pot. Pour in that beautiful garlic milk mixture and mix everything together using either a hand masher or an electric mixer. Don’t worry if you leave some small chunks—those bits add character and texture!

And there you have it—delicious Garlic Mashed Potatoes ready to be enjoyed! Whether you’re serving them alongside roasted chicken, grilled veggies, or just enjoying them on their own, I’m sure they’ll become a beloved recipe in your home too.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Mashed Potatoes

We all want to create that perfect creamy, flavorful mash, and these simple tips will help you achieve just that!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for their buttery flavor and creamy texture, but russet potatoes work well too. The starch content in these varieties helps create a fluffy mash.

• Infuse the garlic flavor: Gently cooking the minced garlic in milk allows its flavor to permeate without becoming bitter. This step ensures your mashed potatoes are filled with a delicious garlicky essence.

• Don’t over-mix: When mashing your potatoes, be careful not to overdo it. Mixing too much can lead to gummy mashed potatoes. Aim for a balance of smoothness while still retaining some texture.

• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer your mashed potatoes creamier, feel free to add more milk or butter until you reach your desired consistency. Just remember to do it gradually so you don’t end up with soupy potatoes!

• Taste as you go: Always taste your mashed potatoes before serving. Adjusting the salt and pepper at this stage will ensure they are perfectly seasoned and flavorful.

How to Serve Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the potatoes.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top can enhance the flavor and provide a beautiful shine.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add both nutrition and vibrancy to your plate.
• Grilled chicken: Juicy grilled chicken provides a wonderful protein option that pairs beautifully with creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
• Steamed green beans: These offer a crisp texture contrast and their mild flavor complements the rich potatoes nicely.
• Lentil salad: A hearty lentil salad brings in different textures and flavors while keeping things healthy and satisfying.

Serve your garlic mashed potatoes alongside these garnishes and side dishes for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress family and friends! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time, making your weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and reheat them for the best taste.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To prevent drying out, you might want to add a splash of milk before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow the garlic mashed potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer them into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Flatten the bags for easier storage.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label them!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, or reheat directly from frozen using a microwave.
• For stovetop reheating, place them in a saucepan over low heat with a bit of added milk, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

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

Can I make Garlic Mashed Potatoes without milk?

Yes! You can substitute whole milk with vegetable broth or unsweetened plant-based milk for a dairy-free version while still enjoying great flavor.

How can I enhance my Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Consider adding cream cheese or sour cream for extra creaminess. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can provide a lovely finish too!

Are Garlic Mashed Potatoes healthy?

Garlic Mashed Potatoes can be part of a balanced diet! With whole ingredients and no extra additives, they are a comforting yet nutritious side dish.

Can I use other types of potatoes for Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Definitely! While Yukon gold and Russet potatoes are ideal, you can experiment with red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for different flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Garlic Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They’re not just a side dish; they’re a warm hug on your plate – perfect for cozy gatherings or simple family meals. Whether you’re serving them alongside your favorite protein or enjoying them solo, these mashed potatoes are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking!