Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that brings smiles to the dinner table, look no further than these Garlic Mashed Potatoes. There’s something truly special about the creamy texture and rich flavor of garlic-infused potatoes that makes them a favorite in my home. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a joyous family gathering, this recipe fits perfectly into any occasion.

Not only are these mashed potatoes a crowd-pleaser, but they also bring warmth and nostalgia with every bite. Plus, they come together in just 20 minutes! Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for all your dinner needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up delicious Garlic Mashed Potatoes in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! This dish is sure to please picky eaters and foodies alike.
• Make-Ahead Option: These mashed potatoes can be prepared ahead of time—perfect for holiday dinners or meal prep!
• Flavorful Twist: The addition of garlic elevates the classic recipe, making these potatoes irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Garlic Mashed Potatoes are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather our goodies!

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 make these Garlic Mashed Potatoes your own.

• Add Some Greens: Stir in some chopped spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost.
• Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or Parmesan for added richness.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a fresh flavor twist.
• Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use almond milk or any plant-based milk for a lighter option.

How to Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing and scrubbing your 3 lbs of Yukon gold potatoes. Chop them into small chunks to ensure they cook evenly. This step is important because it helps create that fluffy texture we all love in mashed potatoes!

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Add the chopped potatoes to a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are soft enough to poke with a fork—this usually takes about 15 minutes. Soft potatoes are key to achieving that creamy consistency.

Step 3: Infuse the Milk

While your potatoes are cooking, combine ½ cup whole milk, ½ cup salted butter, 8 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp ground black pepper in a saucepan over low heat. Gently warm this mixture for about 3-4 minutes without letting it boil. This allows the garlic to infuse its flavor into the milk beautifully.

Step 4: Drain and Mix

Once your potatoes are cooked and tender, drain away the water while keeping them in the pot. Pour in that delicious garlic-infused milk mixture. Now comes the fun part—mix everything together using a hand masher or electric mixer until combined. Don’t worry if there are small chunks left; they add great texture!

And there you have it—your very own Garlic Mashed Potatoes ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect garlic mashed potatoes is all about technique and a little love! Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish to new heights.

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are creamy and buttery, making them ideal for mashing. If you prefer a fluffier texture, russet potatoes work great too!

• Don’t rush the boiling: Ensure your potatoes are very soft before mashing. This ensures a smooth and creamy consistency, free from lumps.

• Infuse flavors gently: Cooking the garlic in milk over low heat allows it to mellow and infuse its flavor into the milk without burning. This step adds depth to your mashed potatoes.

• Mash with care: When mixing in the garlic milk, aim for a combination of smoothness and texture. Leaving small chunks gives your mashed potatoes character and makes them even more delightful!

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your garlic mashed potatoes before serving and adjust salt or pepper as needed for that perfect balance.

How to Serve Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are not only comforting but also incredibly versatile! They can be served in various ways that enhance their flavors and presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the garlic beautifully.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top can add richness and enhance the overall taste experience.
• Shredded cheese: For those who enjoy cheese, a sprinkle of shredded cheese like cheddar or Parmesan can provide an irresistible creamy topping as it melts into the warm potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli add both nutrition and beautiful presentation beside your garlic mashed potatoes.
• Grilled chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs is a lean protein option that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of mashed potatoes.
• Savory mushroom gravy: A rich mushroom gravy drizzled over your mashed potatoes can take this dish to another level, adding umami flavors that are simply irresistible.
• Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy mashed texture, balancing out your meal perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your delicious garlic mashed potatoes! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not only a delightful side dish but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them, and enjoy them whenever you please. Here’s how to keep your creamy creation fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you plan to use them later, consider separating portions into smaller containers for easy reheating.

Freezing

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, pressing out as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label with the date for your reference!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of milk or butter if they seem dry.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you with your Garlic Mashed Potatoes journey!

Can I make Garlic Mashed Potatoes without milk?

Yes! You can substitute whole milk with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or oat milk. The flavor will still be delicious!

How do I make Garlic Mashed Potatoes creamy?

For extra creaminess, ensure your butter is softened before mixing it in, and don’t hesitate to add more milk until you reach your desired consistency.

What dishes pair well with Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Garlic Mashed Potatoes are versatile! They pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or even a hearty vegetable stew.

Can I prepare Garlic Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make them a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them when you’re ready to serve.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Consider adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley for an aromatic touch. Roasted garlic instead of raw garlic can also elevate the flavor profile!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Garlic Mashed Potatoes finds its way into your kitchen and warms your heart! It’s one of those comforting dishes that brings everyone together around the table. Enjoy making these creamy delights and feel free to experiment with flavors that you love. Happy cooking, and may every bite bring joy to your meals!