When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the warm, buttery taste of creamy mashed potatoes. But when you add garlic into the mix, you take this simple side dish to a whole new level. Garlic Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate addition to your collection of Dinner Recipes, whether you’re planning a cozy family meal, a festive holiday spread, or a quick weekday dinner.
Rich, smooth, and full of flavor, this recipe transforms humble potatoes into a dish that’s both hearty and elegant. Best of all, it’s versatile—you can serve it alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or even vegetarian mains. Let’s dive into the ingredients, steps, and tips to make this dish unforgettable.
Ingredients
To prepare the perfect Garlic Mashed Potatoes, you’ll need:
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2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
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6–8 cloves garlic (peeled, whole)
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½ cup unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
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1 cup heavy cream (warm)
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½ cup whole milk (warm)
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Salt, to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Fresh chives or parsley (optional garnish)
Kitchen Tools Needed
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Large pot
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Potato masher or potato ricer
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Mixing bowl
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Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
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Small saucepan (to warm milk and cream)
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Ladle or measuring cups
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Garlic
Peel and chop the potatoes into even-sized chunks for even cooking. Place the potatoes and garlic cloves into a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt.
Step 2: Boil Until Tender
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes). Drain well.
Step 3: Heat Cream and Butter
While the potatoes cook, gently heat the cream, milk, and butter in a saucepan. This prevents the mash from cooling down when you add them.
Step 4: Mash the Potatoes
Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes and garlic until smooth. Avoid over-mashing to prevent a gluey texture.
Step 5: Mix in the Creamy Goodness
Slowly pour the warm butter-cream mixture into the mashed potatoes, stirring gently until fully incorporated. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with chopped chives or parsley, and serve warm.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Garlic Mashed Potatoes
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Choose the Right Potatoes – Russets yield fluffy results, while Yukon Golds create a creamier mash.
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Don’t Overwork – Over-mixing makes potatoes gummy. Mash gently.
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Warm Ingredients – Always add warm butter and cream for smoother consistency.
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Infuse the Garlic – For milder garlic flavor, roast the cloves before mashing.
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Make Ahead – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat with extra cream to restore texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1 cup)
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Calories: 280
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Fat: 15 g
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Carbs: 32 g
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Protein: 4 g
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Fiber: 2 g
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Vitamin C: 20% DV
Why Garlic Mashed Potatoes Belong in Your Dinner Recipes
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Versatile Pairing: Works with chicken, steak, lamb, turkey, or vegetarian mains.
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Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by kids and adults alike.
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Customizable: Add cheese, roasted garlic, or herbs for new variations.
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Holiday-Ready: Essential for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter menus.
Delicious Variations
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Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan.
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Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roast the garlic cloves first for a sweeter, nutty flavor.
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Vegan Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Use olive oil and almond milk instead of butter and cream.
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Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Add bacon, scallions, and cheese for a hearty twist.
Pairing Ideas: Complete Dinner Recipes
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Serve with Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken and steamed green beans.
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Pair with Grilled Salmon and asparagus for a lighter dinner.
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Match with Braised Beef Short Ribs for an indulgent meal.
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Complement with Stuffed Bell Peppers for a vegetarian-friendly plate.
Storing & Reheating
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
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Freezer: Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 1 month.
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Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with extra cream or milk to maintain creaminess.
Conclusion
If you’re building a collection of must-try Dinner Recipes, these Garlic Mashed Potatoes deserve a top spot. They’re creamy, flavorful, and endlessly versatile, making them the ultimate comfort food side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, this recipe will impress every time.
