Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that is loved by many. This Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe takes the traditional dish to the next level with the addition of rich, buttery flavors and a hint of garlic. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, these mashed potatoes are sure to become a family favorite. Follow this easy recipe to create a delicious, creamy, and flavorful batch of mashed potatoes that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling the russet potatoes and cutting them into uniform chunks. This ensures that they cook evenly. Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Cook the Potatoes: Bring the pot of potatoes to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes cook until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare the Garlic: While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the garlic. Mince the garlic cloves finely. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Warm the Cream: In the same saucepan with the garlic and butter, add the heavy cream. Heat the mixture until it is warm but not boiling. Stir occasionally to combine the flavors.
- Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot. Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency. For extra smooth mashed potatoes, use a ricer.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the warm garlic butter and cream mixture over the mashed potatoes. Add the sour cream and mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients
Russet Potatoes
Russet potatoes are the ideal choice for making mashed potatoes due to their high starch content. This gives the mashed potatoes a fluffy and smooth texture. Their earthy flavor also complements the creamy ingredients perfectly.
Garlic
Garlic adds a depth of flavor to the mashed potatoes, making them more savory and aromatic. It pairs well with the richness of the butter and cream, providing a subtle kick that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Heavy Cream and Butter
Heavy cream and butter are essential for achieving the creamy texture that makes these mashed potatoes so delicious. The combination of these two ingredients adds a rich, luxurious quality to the dish, making it extra indulgent.
Sour Cream
Sour cream adds a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the butter and cream. It also helps to make the mashed potatoes extra creamy and smooth.
Salt and Pepper
Seasoning the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper is crucial for bringing out all the flavors. Adjust the amount to your preference, but don’t skip this step as it enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Fresh Chives or Parsley
Garnishing the mashed potatoes with fresh chives or parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, herby flavor that complements the creamy and savory elements of the dish.
In conclusion, this Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a simple yet delicious side dish that can elevate any meal. The combination of buttery, garlicky, and creamy flavors makes it a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to please. Follow this recipe to create a batch of mashed potatoes that are rich, smooth, and full of flavor.
