Best Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Introduction

Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that adds the perfect twist to traditional mashed potatoes. Creamy, flavorful, and savory, this dish is great for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings. Whether paired with a roast, grilled chicken, or a hearty stew, this recipe will elevate your meal with ease. Let’s explore how to make the best garlic mashed potatoes that will delight your family and guests.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

To prepare the perfect garlic mashed potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Potatoes: 2 pounds of russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Garlic: 4 large cloves, peeled and minced
Butter: Half a cup of unsalted butter, preferably softened
Cream: Half a cup of heavy cream or whole milk
Salt: Add 1 teaspoon for cooking potatoes and additional to taste
Black Pepper: A quarter teaspoon, freshly ground, for seasoning
(optional) Fresh Parsley or Chives: Finely chopped, for garnish

Prep Time

Preparing garlic mashed potatoes is simple and quick, with a minimal prep time of approximately 15 minutes. Start by peeling and cutting your potatoes into evenly-sized chunks to ensure even cooking. Mince your garlic finely and set it aside. Once everything is prepared, you’ll be ready to start cooking this delicious recipe.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for the garlic mashed potatoes is approximately 20 minutes. Combining the prep and cook time, you’ll have a total time of just 35 minutes to whip up this flavorful dish. This recipe yields about 4 to 6 servings, making it an ideal side dish for a medium-sized family dinner or small gathering.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks, about 1 to 2 inches in size, to ensure they cook uniformly.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water, making sure they are fully submerged. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to simmer. Cook the potatoes for about 15–20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.

Step 3: Drain the Potatoes

Carefully drain the boiled potatoes using a colander. Return the drained potatoes to the pot briefly to help evaporate any excess moisture.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Make sure the garlic doesn’t burn.

Step 5: Mash the Potatoes

Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash the drained potatoes until smooth. For extra creamy potatoes, you can use a food mill or ricer.

Step 6: Add the Butter and Cream

Slowly pour the melted garlic butter mixture over the mashed potatoes. Add the warm heavy cream and mix well until the potatoes are creamy and smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream, if needed.

Step 7: Season and Mix

Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Mix again to evenly distribute the seasonings.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the garlic mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Note on Potatoes

Use starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet for the best creamy texture.

Note on Mashing

Avoid over-mixing the potatoes to prevent them from becoming gummy.

Note on Garlic

If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the butter.

Note on Make-Ahead

You can prepare the mashed potatoes a few hours in advance, cover them tightly, and reheat them over low heat with additional cream if needed.

Note on Vegan Options

For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan butter and heavy cream with a non-dairy milk alternative.
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Cook Techniques

Use Starchy Potatoes

For the creamiest mashed potatoes, use starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold. Their texture allows for a softer mash, perfect for absorbing flavors.

Boil Potatoes Evenly

Cut the potatoes into equal-sized chunks before boiling to ensure they cook at the same rate. This step prevents uneven texture and results in a smooth consistency.

Avoid Overmixing

When mashing potatoes, avoid overmixing as this can cause the mash to become gluey. Use a potato masher, ricer, or food mill for best results.

Infuse Flavors into the Cream

For added garlic flavor, infuse your cream or milk with roasted or sautéed garlic before mixing it into the mashed potatoes.

Season Gradually

Add salt and pepper a little at a time, tasting as you go. This ensures your mashed potatoes are perfectly seasoned.

FAQ

What potatoes are best for garlic mashed potatoes?

Starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold are best for creamy garlic mashed potatoes. They create a fluffy and smooth texture.

Can I make garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep and store mashed potatoes in the refrigerator. Reheat them gently on the stove while adding a small amount of cream or butter to restore the creamy texture.

How do I ensure the garlic flavor is not overpowering?

To avoid an overpowering garlic flavor, roast the garlic beforehand to mellow its intensity or sauté it for a milder taste.

Can I use a blender for mashing potatoes?

No, using a blender can make mashed potatoes gluey due to overworking the starch. Stick to a potato masher, ricer, or food mill.

How long should I boil the potatoes?

Boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes depending on their size. Make sure not to overcook them to prevent water absorption.

How do I store leftover mashed potatoes?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently using the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or butter to regain creaminess.

What can I add to enhance the flavor of garlic mashed potatoes?

You can enhance the flavor by adding ingredients like roasted garlic, fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or chives), parmesan cheese, or even a dollop of sour cream.

Conclusion

Garlic mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that brings creamy, buttery, and flavorful goodness to the table. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses and is a hit at any family dinner or holiday gathering. Whether you want a rustic texture or a smooth consistency, garlic mashed potatoes can be tailored to suit your taste preferences, making it an exceptional side dish for everyone to enjoy.

More Recipes Suggestions and Combination

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Nothing pairs better with garlic mashed potatoes than a juicy, roasted turkey. Add a side of cranberry sauce for a complete meal perfect for holidays or special occasions.

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Use leftover mashed potatoes to make crispy croquettes, perfect as an appetizer or snack, paired with a dipping sauce of choice.

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Pair your garlic mashed potatoes with a beautifully seared salmon fillet and a drizzle of lemon butter sauce for a gourmet meal.

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This classic British dish is upgraded when paired with flavorful garlic mashed potatoes alongside caramelized onions and rich gravy.