If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that feels like a warm hug, look no further than these Garlic Mashed Potatoes. This recipe is a family favorite in my home, and I’m excited to share it with you! The creamy texture combined with the rich flavor of garlic makes these mashed potatoes perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering.

These Garlic Mashed Potatoes are simple enough for everyday meals but special enough to impress guests. They pair wonderfully with everything from roasted vegetables to hearty main dishes, making them an essential addition to your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious side dish in about 20 minutes.
Family-Friendly: Everyone loves creamy mashed potatoes! This recipe is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the garlic milk mixture ahead of time, making dinner prep even easier.
Deliciously Flavorful: The infusion of garlic adds an irresistible depth of flavor that elevates this classic dish.
Customizable Texture: Whether you like your potatoes smooth or with a bit of chunkiness, this recipe lets you customize to your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome items you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes (or Russet potatoes)
½ cup whole milk
1/2 cup salted butter
8 minced garlic cloves
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about Garlic Mashed Potatoes is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with these ideas:

Add some herbs: Toss in some fresh chives or parsley for an extra layer of flavor and color.
Try different dairy: Swap whole milk for sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Make them cheesy: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese or shredded cheddar cheese while mashing for extra richness.
Spice it up: For those who like it hot, add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to give your mashed potatoes a kick!

How to Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing and scrubbing the Yukon gold potatoes. Chop them into small chunks so they cook evenly. This step is important because smaller pieces will boil faster and help achieve that soft, creamy texture we all love.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Add the chopped potatoes to a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce it to simmer until the potatoes are very soft when poked with a fork. Cooking them thoroughly ensures that they mash smoothly without any lumps.

Step 3: Infuse the Flavors

While the potatoes are cooking, grab a saucepan. Add the whole milk, salted butter, minced garlic, salt, and ground black pepper. Heat gently over low heat—this allows the garlic to infuse its lovely flavor into the milk without boiling it. Cooking for about 3-4 minutes will bring out that delicious garlicky goodness!

Step 4: Drain and Combine

Once your potatoes are perfectly tender, drain them well but keep them in the pot. Pour in that fragrant garlic milk mixture. It’s time to combine everything! Use a hand masher or electric mixer to mix until just combined—feel free to leave some small chunks if you prefer added texture.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Your Garlic Mashed Potatoes are ready! Serve them warm as a delightful side dish that will steal the show at any meal. Enjoy every buttery, garlicky bite—it’s comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect garlic mashed potatoes can be easy with a few helpful tips!

Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are creamy and buttery, making them ideal for mashing. Russet potatoes are also great but may yield a fluffier texture.
Don’t rush the boiling: Allowing the potatoes to cook until they are very soft ensures that your mashed potatoes will be rich and creamy. Undercooking can lead to a chunky texture.
Infuse the flavors: Gently cooking the garlic in milk and butter not only mellows its sharpness but also allows it to infuse its flavor into the dish, creating a more harmonious taste.
Mash with care: Whether you use a hand masher or an electric mixer, be careful not to overmix! Leaving some small chunks adds character and texture to your mashed potatoes.
Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone has different preferences, so always taste your mashed potatoes before serving! You can easily add more salt, pepper, or even garlic if you desire a stronger flavor.

How to Serve Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are not just delicious; they are also versatile! Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting dish:

Garnishes

Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh and vibrant touch.
Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and enhances the garlic flavor.
Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of your favorite non-dairy cheese can make these mashed potatoes even more indulgent.

Side Dishes

Roasted vegetables: Caramelized carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus tossed with olive oil and herbs make for a colorful and healthy accompaniment.
Grilled chicken or tofu: Both options provide protein while complementing the creamy texture of your garlic mashed potatoes beautifully.
Green salad: A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mashed potatoes.
Steamed broccoli: This nutritious side adds color and crunch alongside your creamy dish, rounding out the meal nicely.

Enjoy creating and sharing this delightful garlic mashed potato recipe—it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy their rich, creamy flavor with minimal effort when it’s time to eat.

Storing Leftovers

Place your leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container.
Refrigerate them for up to 3 days.
To keep the potatoes from drying out, consider adding a splash of milk or butter before sealing the container.

Freezing

Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely.
Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Stir in a little milk or butter as you warm them up.
Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave. Heat in short intervals, stirring between until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

Can I use other types of potatoes for Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! While Yukon gold and Russet potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, you can experiment with other varieties such as red potatoes for a different taste and consistency.

How do I make my Garlic Mashed Potatoes creamier?

To achieve creamier Garlic Mashed Potatoes, try adding more whole milk or butter. You can also mix in sour cream or cream cheese for an extra indulgent texture!

Can Garlic Mashed Potatoes be made ahead of time?

Yes! These Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep. You can make them in advance and store them in the refrigerator or even freeze them for later use.

What can I serve with Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Garlic Mashed Potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or any savory main dish. They are a versatile side that complements many meals!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Garlic Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They’re not just a side dish; they’re a comforting companion to any meal. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction. Enjoy every creamy bite!