Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a classic comfort side dish that pairs well with almost any meal. Rich, smooth, and bursting with mild garlic flavor, they’re easy to prepare and always satisfy.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 5–6 garlic cloves, peeled
• Salt, to taste
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• Black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the peeled and chopped potatoes and garlic cloves in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
2. Step 2: Drain the potatoes and garlic well, then let them sit for 2–3 minutes to release excess steam.
3. Step 3: Return the potatoes and garlic to the pot. Add the butter, sour cream, and milk, then mash everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Step 4: Season with salt and black pepper to taste, mixing well.
5. Step 5: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creamy potatoes, warm the milk and sour cream before adding them to avoid cooling down the dish.
• Roast the garlic beforehand for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor.
• Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier option.
• Add grated Parmesan or cream cheese for an even richer texture.

Storage

Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Russet potatoes are best for creamy mashed potatoes due to their high starch content, but Yukon Gold can also be used for a slightly buttery texture.

How do I keep mashed potatoes warm before serving?

Keep mashed potatoes warm by placing the serving bowl over a pot of simmering water or using a slow cooker on the warm setting until ready to serve.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 68 reviews

This Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe delivers perfectly smooth, buttery mashed potatoes infused with the rich, mellow flavor of roasted garlic. Made with simple ingredients like russet potatoes, garlic cloves, butter, sour cream, and milk, this comforting side dish is easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Garnished with fresh parsley, it offers a deliciously creamy texture and a burst of garlicky goodness in every bite.

• Author: Luna
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Potatoes and Garlic

• 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 5–6 garlic cloves, peeled
• Salt, to taste

Dairy and Seasoning

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• Black pepper, to taste

Garnish

• Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Boil Potatoes & Garlic: Place the peeled and chopped russet potatoes along with the peeled garlic cloves into a large pot. Cover everything with cold water, add salt to taste, then bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender and soft when pierced.
2. Drain and Rest: Drain the cooked potatoes and garlic using a colander, letting them sit for 2–3 minutes to allow excess steam to evaporate, which prevents watery mashed potatoes.
3. Mash the Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes and garlic back into the pot. Add the unsalted butter, sour cream, and milk. Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash the potatoes and garlic together until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture without lumps.
4. Season to Taste: Season the mashed potatoes with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Stir gently to evenly distribute the seasoning.
5. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the creamy garlic mashed potatoes into a serving bowl. Optionally sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Notes

• For extra garlicky flavor, you can roast the garlic cloves beforehand.
• Use warm milk when mixing to keep the potatoes hot and creamy.
• For vegan or dairy-free options, substitute butter and sour cream with plant-based alternatives.
• Russet potatoes are preferred because of their high starch content, which yields fluffier mashed potatoes.
• Don’t overmix to avoid gummy texture; mash until just smooth.

Keywords: creamy mashed potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, side dish, comfort food, mashed potato recipe