Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with a wide variety of main courses. The addition of garlic adds a delicious depth of flavor to the creamy mashed potatoes, making them a favorite at holiday gatherings and everyday meals alike. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make perfectly creamy and flavorful garlic mashed potatoes that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients for Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh chives, for garnish
How to Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
- Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add the smashed garlic cloves to the pot. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- While the potatoes are cooking, combine the milk, heavy cream, and butter in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm.
- Drain the potatoes and garlic, then return them to the pot. Place the pot over low heat and stir for 1-2 minutes to allow any excess moisture to evaporate.
- Remove the pot from the heat. Using a potato masher or a fork, mash the potatoes and garlic until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the potatoes, stirring until the desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh chives. Serve hot.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice for mashed potatoes because they have a high starch content and a light, fluffy texture when mashed.
- Garlic: Adds a delicious, savory flavor to the mashed potatoes. Smashing the garlic cloves before adding them to the potatoes helps release their flavor.
- Milk and Heavy Cream: Add richness and creaminess to the mashed potatoes. Using a combination of milk and heavy cream gives the potatoes a luxurious texture.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the mashed potatoes. Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the amount of salt in the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Season the mashed potatoes to taste, adding more or less according to your preference.
- Chives: Garnish the mashed potatoes with chopped fresh chives for a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
Enjoy these creamy and flavorful garlic mashed potatoes as a delicious side dish for any meal!