Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, velvety Garlic Mashed Potatoes made with buttery potatoes and soft roasted or simmered garlic. This foolproof, restaurant-quality side dish is rich, savory, and perfect for any meal or occasion. Customize easily with cheese, herbs, or spices for a delicious comfort food experience.
- Author: Sophie
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Potatoes
- 2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
Garlic
- 6–8 fresh garlic cloves, peeled (roasted or simmered)
Dairy & Fats
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup warm whole milk or cream
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Optional Garnishes & Variations
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or cream cheese (for cheesy upgrade)
- Olive oil or vegan butter and plant-based milk (for vegan version)
- Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives
- Cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (for a spicy kick)
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform chunks about 2 inches each to ensure even cooking and smooth mashing.
- Cook the Garlic: Simmer peeled garlic cloves in the boiling water with potatoes or roast whole garlic heads separately until soft and fragrant to mellow the flavor.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place potato chunks in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and Mash: Drain potatoes and garlic thoroughly, then return them to the pot or a mixing bowl. Use a potato masher or ricer to mash to desired smoothness without overworking.
- Add Butter and Liquid: While potatoes are hot, mix in softened butter and gradually stir in warm cream or milk to achieve a fluffy, creamy consistency.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently fold in chopped parsley if desired, then serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creamier texture or Russet potatoes for fluffier mashed potatoes.
- Warm milk or cream before adding to potatoes to maintain smoothness and avoid gluey texture.
- Avoid overmixing to prevent activating starch and creating gluey mashed potatoes.
- Roasting garlic adds sweetness and a deeper flavor compared to boiling or simmering.
- For the smoothest texture, consider using a potato ricer or food mill.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: garlic mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, easy mashed potatoes, garlic side dish, comfort food, holiday side, mashed potatoes recipe