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If you crave comfort food, you’ll love my Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes! This dish is rich, buttery, and overflows with garlic goodness. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a side that impresses at any meal. I’ll guide you through easy steps to make this classic dish creamy and delicious. Are you ready to savor every bite? Let’s get started on this delightful journey!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food: These creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a rich and savory flavor that’s irresistible.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Versatile Side: These mashed potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes, from roasted meats to vegetarian options.
Ingredients
Detailed List of Ingredients
– 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
– 4 cloves garlic
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
These ingredients create a rich and creamy dish. Yukon Gold potatoes work best. They have a buttery flavor and smooth texture. The garlic adds a nice kick. Four cloves give a strong garlic taste, but you can adjust it to your liking. Unsalted butter provides a rich base. Heavy cream makes the potatoes creamy and dreamy.
Don’t forget to season well with salt and pepper. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese brings depth to the flavor. Lastly, chives add color and a mild onion flavor. This simple list makes a dish that everyone will love. Each bite is a delight!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Potatoes and Garlic
To start, you need to cube the potatoes. First, peel the Yukon Gold potatoes. Cut them into even pieces, about one inch each. This size helps them cook evenly. Next, place the cubed potatoes and garlic cloves in a large pot. Fill the pot with water until it covers the potatoes by an inch.
Now, bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium. Let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes. They should be tender enough to pierce with a fork.
After that, drain the potatoes and garlic using a colander. Return them back to the pot, ready for the next step.
Making the Creamy Mixture
In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once the butter has melted, add the heavy cream. Warm the cream gently without boiling it. Stir the mixture well, as this step is key for smooth mashed potatoes.
The temperature of the butter and cream matters. Warming them helps them mix better with the potatoes. Cold cream can lead to lumps, so keep it warm.
Mashing and Combining Ingredients
Now, it’s time to mash! Use a potato masher or a ricer to mash the potatoes and garlic together. Aim for a smooth and creamy texture.
Gradually pour the warm butter and cream mixture into the mashed potatoes. Stir well until everything is blended. To finish, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Transfer the creamy garlic mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped fresh chives for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy this delightful dish!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture, consider using a potato ricer. This tool makes the potatoes super smooth. If you prefer a more rustic style, a potato masher works great too. Just ensure you mash them well. To avoid lumps, make sure to cook the potatoes until they are very tender. This step is key for a creamy result.
Enhancing Flavor
Adding extra spices or herbs can elevate your mashed potatoes. Try mixing in garlic powder or fresh thyme for more flavor. You can also adjust the creaminess by adding more heavy cream or butter. Taste as you go, so you get the perfect mix for your palate.
Presentation Tips
Serve your mashed potatoes in a stylish bowl for an eye-catching look. You can create a small well in the center and drizzle some melted butter. For garnishing, sprinkle freshly chopped chives on top. This adds color and a fresh taste. Another fun idea is to add crispy bacon bits for a crunchy twist.
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for creamy mashed potatoes due to their buttery flavor and smooth texture.
- Don’t Over-Mash: Be careful not to over-mash the potatoes, as this can make them gluey. Stop when they are smooth and creamy.
- Warm the Dairy: Always warm the butter and cream mixture before adding it to the potatoes to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Season Gradually: Taste and adjust the seasoning gradually. Start with a little salt and pepper, and add more as needed for flavor.

Variations
Adding Additional Ingredients
You can make creamy garlic mashed potatoes even better by adding extra flavors. One great option is roasted garlic. Roasting garlic softens its taste and adds a warm, sweet flavor. To do this, wrap a whole head of garlic in foil and roast it in the oven for 30-35 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Squeeze the soft garlic into your mashed potatoes for a rich taste.
Another option is to mix in cream cheese or sour cream. These ingredients give the potatoes a nice tang and extra creaminess. Start with about 1/2 cup of either, and mix it in with the butter and cream. This small change makes a big difference in taste.
Different Types of Potatoes
While Yukon Gold potatoes are my go-to, you can try different types for unique flavors. Red potatoes have a waxy texture that keeps them creamy. They can add a bit of color to your dish too. Just peel them, cube, and cook them the same way.
If you want to try something different, sweet potatoes are a fun choice. They bring a natural sweetness to the dish. Peel and cube them, then cook them just like regular potatoes. The result is a vibrant, flavorful mash that pairs well with many dishes.
Serving with Other Dishes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are great with many meals. They pair well with meats like roasted chicken, steak, or pork. The creamy texture balances the savory flavors of the meat.
For a festive meal, serve these mashed potatoes alongside roasted vegetables or a holiday turkey. They are also a hit at family gatherings and special occasions. Serving them up with a sprinkle of fresh chives adds a nice pop of color and flavor.
Storage Information
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftover mashed potatoes, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This step helps you track freshness.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze creamy garlic mashed potatoes for longer storage. Here’s how to do it:
1. Cool Completely: First, let the mashed potatoes cool down to room temperature. This step prevents ice crystals from forming.
2. Portion: Divide the mashed potatoes into smaller portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
3. Seal: Remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing. This keeps them fresh.
4. Label: Write the date on each bag or container.
To reheat, place the frozen potatoes in the fridge overnight. You can also reheat them directly from the freezer. Use a microwave or stovetop. Add a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess. Stir well while heating to ensure even warmth. Enjoy your creamy garlic mashed potatoes whenever you want!
FAQs
How do I make mashed potatoes creamier?
To make mashed potatoes creamier, use more heavy cream. You can also add more butter. Yukon Gold potatoes are great for creaminess. They have a natural buttery flavor. Mashing with a ricer gives a smooth texture, too.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use other cheeses. Cream cheese adds a rich taste. Cheddar cheese gives a sharp flavor. Goat cheese brings a tangy twist. Just remember to adjust the salt to balance the flavors.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare these mashed potatoes ahead of time. Make them and store in the fridge. Before serving, reheat them gently. Add a splash of cream to restore creaminess as they heat.
How can I adjust the garlic flavor?
To adjust the garlic flavor, add more or less garlic. Roasting garlic before mashing makes it sweeter. If you want a milder flavor, use less garlic. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
What sides pair well with creamy garlic mashed potatoes?
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes pair well with many sides. Try them with roasted vegetables for color. Grilled meats like chicken or steak complement the dish nicely. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch, too.
In this post, we explored how to make creamy garlic mashed potatoes. I shared ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfect texture and flavor. We also discussed variations and storage options to help keep your dish tasty.
Remember, the key to great mashed potatoes lies in mixing well and adding the right seasonings. With these insights, you can impress your family or guests with your cooking. Enjoy your creamy garlic mashed potatoes—it’s worth every bit
Heavenly Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Deliciously creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic and topped with fresh chives.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 250 kcal
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- to taste salt and pepper
- 0.25 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
Begin by placing the cubed potatoes and garlic cloves in a large pot. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the potatoes by about an inch.
Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce to medium heat and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Drain the potatoes and garlic in a colander, then return them back to the pot.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the heavy cream and warm gently without boiling, stirring together.
Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash the potatoes and garlic until smooth and creamy.
Gradually pour the warmed butter and cream mixture into the mashed potatoes, stirring until fully incorporated.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until everything is smooth and well combined.
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh chives for a touch of color and flavor.
For extra flavor, you can add more cheese or herbs.
Keyword creamy, garlic, mashed potatoes, sides
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