When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm bowl of creamy garlic mashed potatoes. Whether you’re preparing a holiday dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this side dish is always a winner. In this guide, we’ll show you how to get them smooth, fluffy, and bursting with flavor — just like your favorite restaurant version!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create that irresistible creamy texture and garlicky goodness, gather the following:
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2 lbs of Yukon Gold potatoes
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4 cloves of garlic, peeled
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½ cup unsalted butter
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¾ cup heavy cream (warm)
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Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
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Optional: chopped chives or parsley for garnish
💡 Want to level up your garlic game? Learn more about how to roast garlic the right way to add depth to your mashed potatoes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prep the Potatoes
Peel and cube the potatoes. Place them in a large pot of cold salted water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. -
Infuse with Garlic
While the potatoes are cooking, gently simmer the garlic in the butter over low heat. This mellows the garlic and infuses the butter with rich flavor. -
Mash and Mix
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the garlic butter and warm cream. Mash using a potato masher or a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. -
Season and Serve
Add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with herbs if desired, and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
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Use Yukon Golds – They strike the perfect balance between waxy and starchy.
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Warm your cream and butter – Cold dairy cools the potatoes and reduces creaminess.
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Don’t overmix – It can make your mash gummy. Mix just until smooth.
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Try roasted garlic – It adds a sweet, mellow twist compared to raw garlic.
Perfect Pairings
These creamy garlic mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with:
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Roast chicken or turkey
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Grilled steak or meatloaf
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Vegetarian mushroom gravy
Looking for the perfect main dish? Try this delicious oven-roasted chicken recipe.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s a holiday spread or just a Tuesday dinner, these creamy garlic mashed potatoes bring warmth and flavor to the table. They’re simple, soulful, and always satisfying. With just a few ingredients and a little love, you’ll have a side dish everyone will remember.
