Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, look no further than these delicious Garlic Mashed Potatoes. This recipe is more than just a simple side; it’s a warm hug in a bowl! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these creamy potatoes infused with garlic are a staple I keep coming back to. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a regular on your dinner table.

There’s something special about the way garlic elevates the humble potato into something extraordinary. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or just an ordinary Tuesday night, these Garlic Mashed Potatoes will always impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time!
• Family-approved flavor: Kids and adults alike will love the rich taste of garlic mingling with buttery potatoes.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Versatile side dish: These mashed potatoes go well with almost any main course, from roasted veggies to grilled chicken.
• Comfort food at its best: There’s nothing quite like creamy mashed potatoes to bring warmth and joy to your dining experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are all simple and wholesome, making it easy to create a comforting dish right at home. Gather your kitchen essentials for these delightful Garlic Mashed Potatoes!

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! Feel free to get creative and add your own twist to these Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

• Add cheese: Stir in some shredded cheese like cheddar or parmesan for an extra cheesy version.
• Herb it up: Toss in fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added freshness and flavor.
• Make it lighter: Substitute half of the butter with olive oil for a healthier alternative.
• Creamy without dairy: Use plant-based milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free take on this classic dish.

How to Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and scrub those Yukon gold potatoes until they gleam! Chop them into small chunks so they cook evenly. This step is crucial because properly cut potatoes will ensure that they cook uniformly and become perfectly soft.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Add the chopped potatoes to a large pot and cover them with water. Bring it all to a boil! Once boiling, reduce the heat and let them simmer until they’re very soft when poked with a fork. Cooking them thoroughly allows for that fluffy texture we all love in mashed potatoes.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Infusion

While the potatoes are cooking, grab another saucepan. Add in your milk, butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper over low heat. Gently cook this mixture; you want the garlic flavor to infuse into the milk without boiling it. This step adds depth of flavor that makes your mashed potatoes unforgettable!

Step 4: Drain and Combine

Once those tender potatoes are ready, drain them but leave them in the pot. Pour in your garlic-infused milk mixture. Now comes the fun part—mix everything together! Use either a hand masher or an electric mixer until combined. If you prefer some texture, feel free to leave a few small chunks!

And there you have it! A delightful bowl of Garlic Mashed Potatoes ready to complement any meal. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect garlic mashed potatoes is all about technique. Here are some pro tips to help you achieve that creamy, flavorful goodness every time!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal because they have a buttery texture and flavor, making them perfect for mashing. Russet potatoes also work well but may yield a fluffier texture.
• Don’t rush the boiling: Allowing the potatoes to boil until they are very soft ensures a smooth mash. If they aren’t cooked through, you may end up with lumpy mashed potatoes.
• Infuse your milk and butter: Gently heating the milk and butter with garlic enhances the flavor profile of your mashed potatoes. This step ensures that the garlic flavor permeates every bite without being overwhelming.
• Mash to your preference: Whether you like your potatoes perfectly creamy or with a few chunks for texture, adjust your mashing technique accordingly. A hand masher gives control over consistency, while an electric mixer can create a smoother finish.
• Season as you go: Tasting and adjusting seasoning throughout the cooking process helps ensure that your mashed potatoes are full of flavor. Don’t be afraid to add a pinch more salt or pepper if needed!

How to Serve Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are versatile and can be presented in various ways to impress your family and guests. Here are some ideas for serving this delicious side dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkling chopped parsley or chives on top adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate the dish’s richness while adding an extra layer of taste.
• Grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast: For a cheesy flavor without dairy, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast on top before serving.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: An assortment of seasonal roasted vegetables brings vibrancy to the plate. Try carrots, brussels sprouts, or zucchini tossed in olive oil and herbs.
• Grilled chicken or tofu skewers: Protein-packed skewers pair beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes, providing a satisfying meal option that’s easy to prepare.
• Green salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the mashed potatoes, making it a refreshing addition.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans: Simple steamed greens add nutrition and color while complementing the creamy texture of garlic mashed potatoes.

With these serving suggestions and tips, your garlic mashed potatoes will truly shine at any meal! Enjoy creating this comforting side dish that everyone will love!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious comfort food throughout the week without any fuss. Prepare them in advance, and you’ll have a creamy, flavorful side dish ready to accompany your favorite entrees.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• For stovetop reheating, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
• For microwave reheating, cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Garlic Mashed Potatoes that might help you make this recipe even better!

Can I make Garlic Mashed Potatoes without milk?

Yes! You can substitute the milk with vegetable broth or a non-dairy milk alternative like almond or oat milk for a delicious dairy-free version.

How do I achieve creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

To ensure your Garlic Mashed Potatoes are creamy, use Yukon gold potatoes for their buttery texture. Also, don’t skimp on the butter and milk!

Can I customize my Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs like chives or parsley, or even cheese for an extra flavor boost.

How long do Garlic Mashed Potatoes last in the fridge?

Garlic Mashed Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Are these Garlic Mashed Potatoes suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They store well and can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for quick weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Garlic Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They’re not just a side dish; they’re a comforting hug on a plate that brings warmth to any meal. Enjoy making them and sharing with loved ones. Don’t forget to let me know how yours turned out—I would love to hear about it!