Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Garlic mashed potatoes are the perfect blend of smooth, buttery potatoes and rich, garlicky flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re preparing a comforting side for a weeknight dinner or serving an impressive dish at a holiday feast, this recipe hits the mark every time. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to make the best garlic mashed potatoes, with tips and tricks for achieving that perfect texture and taste.

Why This Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe is a go-to for busy families, holiday gatherings, and potlucks alike. The ingredients are simple, but the results are anything but ordinary. The combination of creamy potatoes and roasted garlic elevates the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser that fits with any main course. Plus, it’s easy to adjust based on your flavor preferences, and we’ll cover some great variations later in this post.

Ingredients for Garlic Mashed Potatoes

For this recipe, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll use to make the best garlic mashed potatoes:

• 3 pounds red potatoes, cut into quarters
• 1 whole head of garlic, peeled and separated
• 8 tablespoons butter, sliced
• ¾ cup sour cream
• 1 cup heavy cream, or half and half
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

These simple ingredients work together to create rich, velvety mashed potatoes. The key to nailing this dish is balancing the creaminess of the potatoes with the boldness of garlic, while ensuring everything blends smoothly.

this RECIPE

The Best Type of Potatoes to Use

While you can make mashed potatoes with several types of potatoes, red potatoes are the best choice for this recipe. Their natural creaminess and slightly waxy texture make them ideal for mashing, without becoming too starchy or gummy. You could substitute with Yukon Golds if needed, but red potatoes ensure the perfect balance of fluff and creaminess.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil the Potatoes and Garlic

Begin by adding your quartered red potatoes and separated garlic cloves to a large Dutch oven or stock pot. Add enough water to cover the potatoes fully, then place the pot on the stovetop and bring it to a boil. Allow the potatoes and garlic to cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Fork-tender means the potatoes should easily break apart when pierced with a fork.

2. Drain and Return to Pot

Once the potatoes and garlic are tender, drain the water and return both to the warm pot. Keeping the pot on a still-warm burner (with the burner turned off), will help the potatoes stay hot as you begin mashing.

3. Mash and Add Butter

Using a potato masher, roughly mash the potatoes and garlic together. You’ll add butter one tablespoon at a time, allowing each piece to melt and blend into the potatoes. The butter adds richness and makes the potatoes smooth without being overly greasy.

4. Incorporate Sour Cream and Heavy Cream

Next, stir in the sour cream, followed by the heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version). Continue mashing and stirring until all ingredients are fully combined and the potatoes reach your desired consistency. For a slightly chunkier texture, mash less. If you prefer ultra-smooth mashed potatoes, feel free to mash more thoroughly.

5. Season and Serve

Finally, season your garlic mashed potatoes with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Use warm dairy ingredients: Cold sour cream or heavy cream can cause the potatoes to cool too quickly and become sticky. Warm them slightly before mixing.
• Don’t over-mash: Overworking the potatoes can lead to a gummy, gluey texture. Mash just enough to combine all ingredients, then stop.
• Adjust garlic flavor: For a more intense garlic flavor, roast the garlic first. This can add a deeper, slightly sweeter garlic taste.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, garlic mashed potatoes store well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop and add a splash of milk or cream to revive the creamy texture.

To reheat:

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second increments, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on low, stirring frequently, with an additional tablespoon of butter or splash of cream to prevent drying out.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

One of the best things about garlic mashed potatoes is how versatile they are. Here are some easy swaps and variations to try:

• Herb additions: Add fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
• Roasted garlic: Instead of boiling the garlic with the potatoes, you can roast the garlic in the oven. Roasted garlic offers a sweeter, more caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with creamy potatoes.
• Dairy-free version: Substitute the butter, sour cream, and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter, cashew cream, or almond milk.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not salting the potatoes properly: Potatoes absorb salt best while boiling, so don’t forget to generously salt your water.
• Over-mashing the potatoes: As mentioned, overworking the potatoes can lead to an undesirable gummy texture. Mash just enough to get the consistency you want.
• Using cold dairy ingredients: Cold butter, cream, or sour cream can cause the potatoes to seize up, resulting in a lumpy or less creamy texture.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes can be a visually stunning side dish with just a few easy touches. Try these serving ideas:

• Use a piping bag: For an elegant presentation, use a piping bag to swirl the mashed potatoes onto plates.
• Garnish: Top the potatoes with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of melted butter, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for extra texture and flavor.
• Serve in a rustic bowl: Garlic mashed potatoes look beautiful in a deep, rustic bowl, perfect for family-style dining.

FAQ Section

Can I freeze garlic mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze garlic mashed potatoes for up to 3 months. Store them in a freezer-safe, airtight container. When reheating, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm up on the stovetop with extra butter or cream to maintain the creamy texture.

How can I make these mashed potatoes less creamy?
If you prefer less creamy mashed potatoes, reduce the amount of heavy cream or sour cream. You can also use milk instead of cream for a lighter version.

What should I serve with garlic mashed potatoes?
Garlic mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or braised meats. They can also complement lighter main dishes like baked fish or vegetarian casseroles.

Conclusion

Garlic mashed potatoes are a must-try side dish, perfect for almost any meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can create a rich, flavorful dish that everyone will love. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

Print