If you’re craving that perfect comfort food side that’s creamy, garlicky, and utterly satisfying, look no further than this Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe. It’s a classic twist on traditional mashed potatoes that brings warmth and richness to every bite, making it an instant favorite for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts. The blend of tender Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes with roasted garlic, butter, and cream creates a luscious texture that will have everyone asking for seconds — trust me, once you try this recipe, mashed potatoes will never be the same again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret to achieving those velvety mashed potatoes with a perfect hint of garlic. Each component plays a key role in building the dish’s flavor, texture, and richness.
- Potatoes (2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet): These varieties provide that ideal balance of creaminess and fluffiness when mashed.
- Garlic cloves (4-5): Roasted gently with the potatoes to infuse a mellow, sweet garlic flavor throughout the mash.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds indulgent richness and a smooth mouthfeel.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup) or milk: Cream keeps the mashed potatoes decadent; milk is a lighter option that still delivers creaminess.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- Fresh parsley or chives (optional): Brightens the dish with a pop of color and fresh herbal notes when used as garnish.
How to Make Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes and Garlic
Start by placing your peeled and chunked potatoes along with the peeled garlic cloves into a large pot. Cover everything generously with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bringing the water up to boil slowly cooks the potatoes evenly while gently infusing the garlic flavor. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let them simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes become fork-tender and soft enough to mash effortlessly.
Step 2: Drain and Prepare for Mashing
Drain your potatoes and garlic thoroughly using a colander, then return them to the hot pot. Allow them to sit for a minute or two to let any lingering moisture evaporate. This step ensures your mashed potatoes won’t turn out watery, preserving their creamy texture.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes and Garlic
Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes together with the roasted garlic until smooth. The garlic cloves will blend right in, giving your mash that gentle garlicky punch without any overpowering sharpness.
Step 4: Stir in Butter and Cream
Slowly pour in the melted butter and mix it through the mash thoroughly. Next, gradually add the heavy cream or milk until the potatoes achieve the perfect consistency — rich and creamy but not too runny. This is where the magic happens, transforming humble potatoes into a dreamy side dish.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Finish by seasoning generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste as you go to ensure the balance is just right; the seasoning elevates every bite and brings out the savory garlic essence beautifully.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Garnish
Transfer your Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe to a serving bowl and sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives if you like a touch of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy them at their most luscious and comforting.
How to Serve Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your mashed potatoes from everyday to exceptional. Finely chopped fresh parsley or chives add a subtle herbal brightness that complements the silky texture. For a bit of indulgence, a small pat of melting butter on top just before serving brings a rich sheen.
Side Dishes
Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with a wide array of main courses. Try serving it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, seared salmon, or hearty beef stew to soak up the flavorful sauces and gravies. Even simple roasted vegetables make a natural match for this creamy side.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Try piping the mashed potatoes onto plates using a large star tip for a pretty presentation. You can also make individual potato cakes by pan-frying small warmed portions until golden and crisp — crispy outside and creamy inside is a showstopper finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Revisit them within this window to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save your Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe for longer, freezing is an option. Place them in a freezer-safe dish or bag, removing as much air as possible. They will keep well for up to two months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the mashed potatoes gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to restore that creamy texture that sometimes firms up after chilling.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of heavy cream in this Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe?
Absolutely! While heavy cream makes the mashed potatoes extra rich and silky, using milk is a lighter alternative that still keeps your potatoes creamy and delicious.
Should I peel the potatoes before cooking?
For the creamiest mashed potatoes, peeling before cooking is best. It ensures a smoother texture without unexpected chunks of skin in each bite.
Is it necessary to boil the garlic with the potatoes?
Cooking garlic together with the potatoes softens its sharpness and infuses a subtle, mellow garlic flavor throughout the mash — much better than tossing raw garlic in afterward.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine and replace the cream or milk with unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a tasty dairy-free version.
Can I prepare this Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes ahead and reheat when needed. Just be sure to store them covered in the fridge and add a little cream or milk during reheating to maintain creaminess.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a brilliant go-to for anyone who loves comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward, uses everyday ingredients, and promises a crowd-pleasing dish every single time. Don’t hesitate — grab those potatoes and garlic, and dive into creamy, garlicky bliss that is sure to become your new favorite side!
Print
Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy garlic mashed potatoes recipe delivers creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes with the perfect balance of buttery richness and garlic aroma. Made with Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, garlic, butter, and cream, these mashed potatoes can be whipped up in just 30 minutes and serve as a comforting side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Garlic
- 2 lbs (about 4–5 medium) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4–5 cloves garlic, peeled
Dairy and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes and Garlic: Place the peeled potato chunks and garlic cloves into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water to season during cooking.
- Boil and Simmer: Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender and easily pierced.
- Drain and Rest: Drain the cooked potatoes and garlic well using a colander. Return them to the pot and let sit for about a minute to allow excess moisture to evaporate, preventing watery mashed potatoes.
- Mash the Potatoes and Garlic: Using a potato masher or a potato ricer, mash the potatoes and garlic together until smooth and lump-free.
- Add Butter and Cream: Slowly pour in the melted butter and mix it into the mashed potatoes thoroughly. Follow with the heavy cream (or milk if you prefer a lighter texture), stirring continually until you achieve the desired creaminess.
- Season to Taste: Season the mashed potatoes generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting according to your preference.
- Garnish: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or chives if you wish, adding a touch of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve Warm: Serve the garlic mashed potatoes warm as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite main courses.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with milk or half-and-half.
- Using a potato ricer instead of a masher will result in smoother mashed potatoes.
- You can prepare the potatoes ahead and keep them warm in a slow cooker on low.
- Adjust the amount of garlic based on your personal taste preference.
- Yukon Gold potatoes create creamier mashed potatoes, but Russets will give a fluffier texture.
