Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, you’ve come to the right place! These Garlic Mashed Potatoes are creamy, buttery, and infused with rich garlic flavor that can turn any meal into a cozy feast. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this recipe is sure to please everyone around the table. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to in my kitchen!

There’s something about the warm, inviting aroma of garlic wafting through your home that instantly makes you feel at ease. This dish is not only delicious but also brings back fond memories of family meals and laughter. Trust me; once you try these Garlic Mashed Potatoes, they’ll become a beloved staple in your household too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have creamy mashed potatoes ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! They’re perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare them ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious flavor: The garlic adds a wonderful depth that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary.
• Versatile side dish: They pair well with almost any main course, from roasted chicken to veggie burgers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Garlic Mashed Potatoes use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home. Let’s gather what we need for this creamy delight!

For the Potatoes

• 3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes (or Russet potatoes)

For the Garlic 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! Feel free to get creative with it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add herbs: Stir in fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added flavor and color.
• Make it vegan: Substitute the butter with plant-based margarine and use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk.
• Add cheese: Mix in some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.
• Roast the garlic: For a sweeter flavor, roast the garlic before mashing it with the potatoes.

How to Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing and scrubbing your 3 lbs of Yukon gold potatoes. Chopping them into small chunks will help them cook evenly and quickly. Remember, uniform sizes make for perfectly soft mashed potatoes!

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Place those chopped potatoes into a large pot and cover them with water. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to let simmer until they are very soft when poked with a fork. This usually takes about 15 minutes. Soft potatoes are key for achieving that creamy texture we all love.

Step 3: Infuse the Garlic Milk

While your potatoes are cooking away, grab a saucepan and combine ½ cup whole milk, ½ cup salted butter, 8 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp ground black pepper. Heat this mixture on low until the garlic infuses its lovely flavor into the milk—don’t let it boil! This step is essential because it ensures every bite of your mashed potatoes is packed with garlicky goodness.

Step 4: Drain the Potatoes

Once your potatoes are cooked to perfection—soft enough to poke—drain them well in a colander. Leaving some moisture behind will help keep your mashed potatoes creamy.

Step 5: Mash It Up!

Now comes the fun part! Pour that fragrant garlic milk mixture over your drained potatoes and mix everything together using either a hand masher or an electric mixer. If you’re like me and enjoy some texture in your mash, feel free to leave a few small chunks here and there. This adds character to your dish!

And there you have it—a bowl full of Garlic Mashed Potatoes that will warm your soul! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Making garlic mashed potatoes is a breeze, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your dish to a whole new level!

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are creamy and buttery, while Russet potatoes provide a fluffier texture. Pick based on your desired outcome!
• Infuse the Garlic Properly: Cooking the minced garlic in the milk ensures that you get a rich, fragrant flavor that permeates every bite without the sharpness of raw garlic.
• Don’t Overmix: Mixing just until combined helps retain some texture in your mashed potatoes. A few small chunks can add delightful creaminess and character!
• Season Generously: Taste as you go! Adjusting salt and pepper not only enhances the flavors but also tailors the dish to your palate, making it even more enjoyable.
• Serve Warm: Garlic mashed potatoes are best enjoyed fresh and warm. If they cool down, consider reheating them gently on low heat or in the microwave with a splash of milk.

How to Serve Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes can be presented beautifully for any occasion! Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these creamy delights will surely impress.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds an extra layer of richness and can make for an eye-catching presentation.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli roasted to perfection provide a colorful and nutritious contrast to your creamy mashed potatoes.
• Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned with herbs make for a lean protein option that pairs wonderfully with the comforting flavors of garlic mashed potatoes.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans lightly steamed retain their crunch and vibrant color while adding brightness to your plate.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a crispy contrast that balances out the richness of the mashed potatoes.

Enjoy crafting your perfect meal with these delicious garlic mashed potatoes as your star side dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy creamy, garlicky goodness throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days.
• Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Make sure to flatten them out for even freezing and easier reheating.
• They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk for creaminess, or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.
• Ensure they are heated through before serving!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Garlic Mashed Potatoes that may help you perfect your dish.

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

Absolutely! While Yukon gold and Russet potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, you can experiment with red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Garlic Mashed Potatoes vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute the whole milk with almond milk (or another plant-based milk) and use dairy-free butter. The garlic flavor will still shine through!

Can I prepare Garlic Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! Garlic Mashed Potatoes are great for meal prep. You can cook them a day or two ahead and store them properly. Just warm them up before serving!

What can I serve with Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

These delicious mashed potatoes pair perfectly with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a hearty veggie stew. They’re versatile enough to complement almost any main dish!

How should I adjust seasoning for my Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Feel free to taste and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference! Adding herbs like chives or parsley can also elevate the flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Garlic Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They bring warmth and comfort to any table, making every meal feel special. Don’t hesitate to try this simple yet satisfying recipe—I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home too. Happy cooking!