Name: Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds of russet potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks); 4 cloves of garlic (minced); ½ cup of unsalted butter (at room temperature); ½ cup of whole milk (warmed); ½ cup of sour cream; 2 teaspoon of salt; 1 teaspoon of black pepper; Fresh parsley (chopped (optional for garnish))

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There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of Garlic Mashed Potatoes to round out any meal. The rich, buttery flavor combined with the subtle kick of garlic makes this dish a standout side that pairs perfectly with just about anything.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes by Tessie's Table. — Photo Credit: Tessie’s Table

Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a versatile dish that you can enjoy year-round. They’re perfect for a hearty winter meal or as a tasty side for summer BBQs. This recipe brings together classic ingredients like russet potatoes and garlic, creating a side dish that’s both rich and flavorful. Plus, it’s easy to make, so it’s a go-to recipe for busy nights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

Why you’ll love these Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Easy to Prepare:
With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for anyone, from beginners to seasoned cooks.
Rich and Creamy:
The combination of butter, milk, and sour cream ensures that these mashed potatoes are irresistibly creamy with just the right amount of richness.
Garlic Flavor:
The garlic adds a savory depth that elevates the traditional mashed potatoes into something special.

My Love For Potatoes

Growing up in Ireland, potatoes were a staple at almost every meal, and garlic was a flavor that my family adored. Combining the two in these mashed potatoes brings back memories of home-cooked meals, filled with simple, flavorful food that was always comforting. The creamy texture and rich, garlicky taste remind me of those cozy family dinners, making this dish a favorite in my household today.

Ingredients Needed for these Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes are perfect for mashing, giving you that fluffy, creamy texture everyone loves.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Mince it finely to ensure it blends smoothly into the potatoes.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish, ensuring it’s just right.
Whole Milk: Warming the milk before adding it to the potatoes helps keep the mash smooth and creamy.
Sour Cream: This adds a tangy richness that complements the buttery flavor perfectly
.Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Fresh Parsley (Optional): A sprinkle of chopped parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness.

How to make Garlic Mashed Potatoes

**For more detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card below.**

Boil the peeled and chunked russet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes, then drain.

Drain and return the potatoes to the saucepan and add garlic, butter, warmed milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper.

Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

garnish with chopped parsley.

Variations

Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes for a cheesy twist. Stir it in until it’s melted and gooey.
Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives for a flavorful herbal kick.
Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes: To make the potatoes even creamier, swap out the sour cream for cream cheese.
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Try roasting the garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor that’s delicious.
Bacon and Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add crumbled cooked bacon for a savory, smoky addition that pairs wonderfully with the garlic.

Serving Suggestions

With Roast Chicken: These mashed potatoes make a perfect side for roast chicken, absorbing all the delicious juices on your plate.
Topped with Gravy: Serve with a generous ladle of your favorite gravy for an extra layer of flavor.
Alongside a Steak: The rich creaminess of the potatoes pairs beautifully with a juicy steak, making it a classic dinner combo.
In a Shepherd’s Pie: Use these mashed potatoes as the topping for a comforting shepherd’s pie, baked until golden and crispy.
With Meatloaf: Serve alongside a hearty meatloaf for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Storage and Freezing

How should I store Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Can I freeze Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

For longer storage, freeze the mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slowly, stirring in a bit of butter or cream to refresh the texture.

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Tips & Tricks

Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are best for a fluffy texture, while Yukon Golds will give you a creamier mash. Experiment with a mix of both for a perfect balance.
Warm the Milk: Adding cold milk to hot potatoes can make them gummy. Warm your milk before mixing it in for smoother, creamier mashed potatoes.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to gluey mashed potatoes. Mash just until smooth and creamy, then stop to keep that fluffy texture.
Season Gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, then taste and adjust. It’s easier to add more seasoning than to fix an over-salted dish.

More Yummy Sides

FAQ

Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a bit of milk or butter to refresh them before serving.
Can I use a different type of potato?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold potatoes work well for a creamy texture. You can even mix russets and Yukon Golds for the best of both worlds.
How do I avoid lumps in my mashed potatoes?
Make sure your potatoes are cooked until very tender. Also, mashing them while they’re still hot helps create a smoother texture.
Can I use a stand mixer or hand mixer to mash the potatoes?
Yes, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the potatoes gummy. A potato masher gives you more control over the texture.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute that adds a similar tangy flavor. Cream cheese also works for a richer result.
Can I add other vegetables to the mash?
Sure! Try adding cooked cauliflower, parsnips, or even kale to make another delicious Irish dish called Colcannon.
How can I keep the mashed potatoes warm before serving?
Transfer them to a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting or place the bowl over a pot of simmering water to keep them warm without drying out.
What’s the best way to reheat mashed potatoes?
Reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of milk or butter as needed. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.