Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a classic side dish that elevates any meal with their rich, buttery flavor and smooth texture. Infused with roasted garlic, these mashed potatoes are perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any special occasion.
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes (or Russet potatoes)
- 4 cloves garlic (peeled)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Fresh chives or parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Timing
Preparing Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes takes about 15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and Cut: Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks (about 1-2 inches) for even cooking.
- Rinse: Rinse the potato chunks under cold water to remove excess starch.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
- Cook Potatoes: Place the potatoes and peeled garlic cloves in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add a generous pinch of salt.
- Bring to a Boil: Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 3: Drain and Steam Dry
- Drain Potatoes: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and garlic in a colander.
- Steam Dry: Return the potatoes and garlic to the pot and let them sit for a minute to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
Step 4: Mash the Potatoes
- Add Butter: Add the unsalted butter to the warm potatoes and garlic.
- Mash: Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Add Cream and Season
- Incorporate Cream: Gradually add the heavy cream (or milk), mixing until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish: Transfer the creamy garlic mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley.
- Enjoy Warm: Serve immediately as a delicious side dish with your favorite main course!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes (per serving, assuming 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Tips for Customization
- Add Cheese: Stir in grated cheese like Parmesan, cheddar, or cream cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or even a pinch of nutmeg for a unique twist.
- Roasted Garlic: For a milder garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic. Simply roast the garlic cloves in the oven until soft and caramelized.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes pair well with:
- Roasted meats such as chicken, beef, or pork.
- A rich gravy or sauce to drizzle over the top for added flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent mushy potatoes.
- Not Draining Well: Ensure the potatoes are well-drained to avoid watery mashed potatoes.
- Skipping the Garlic: Don’t skip the garlic; it’s what makes these mashed potatoes special!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Conclusion
In just about 45 minutes, you can create Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes, a rich and flavorful side dish that will complement any meal. With their buttery texture and delicious garlic infusion, these mashed potatoes are sure to become a favorite at your table!
FAQs
Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance and reheat them before serving.
Can I freeze mashed potatoes?
Yes! Mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with milk or half-and-half for a lighter version, but the texture may be less creamy.
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yukon Golds are ideal for their creamy texture, but you can use Russets or red potatoes as well.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- • 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes (or Russet potatoes)
- • 4 cloves garlic (peeled)
- • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- • 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
- • Salt (to taste)
- • Pepper (to taste)
- • Fresh chives or parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks (about 1–2 inches) for even cooking.
- Rinse the potato chunks under cold water to remove excess starch.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
- Place the potatoes and peeled garlic cloves in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add a generous pinch of salt.
- Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 3: Drain and Steam Dry
- Once cooked, drain the potatoes and garlic in a colander.
- Return the potatoes and garlic to the pot and let them sit for a minute to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
Step 4: Mash the Potatoes
- Add the unsalted butter to the warm potatoes and garlic.
- Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Add Cream and Season
- Gradually add the heavy cream (or milk), mixing until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve
- Transfer the creamy garlic mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley.
- Serve immediately as a delicious side dish with your favorite main course!
