Garlic mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, a creamy and dreamy dish that wraps you in warmth with every fluffy bite. Imagine buttery potatoes combined with fragrant garlic, creating an aroma that dances through your kitchen like a waltzing chef on a cooking show.

Every time I whip up a batch of garlic mashed potatoes, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter echoed around the dinner table. It’s the dish that melts hearts, sparks smiles, and leaves your loved ones begging for seconds—sometimes thirds! Trust me; these spuds are destined to become your new culinary best friend.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Garlic mashed potatoes are easy to make and require minimal ingredients
- The rich flavors will make your taste buds sing a happy tune
- Their creamy texture is visually appealing and perfect for any plate
- Versatile enough to pair with chicken, beef, or even stand alone as a comforting meal
My cousin once declared this recipe the “best thing since sliced bread,” which was quite the compliment—considering he’s also a bread aficionado.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Yukon Gold Potatoes: These creamy beauties are ideal for mashing and add a naturally sweet flavor to your dish.
Fresh Garlic: Use whole cloves for roasting; their sweetness will elevate your mashed potatoes to gourmet status.
Butter: A good quality unsalted butter brings richness; feel free to go wild with it—life’s too short to skimp!
Heavy Cream: For an ultra-smooth texture, this ingredient adds creaminess and depth to every spoonful.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste buds’ whims for a perfect balance of flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make garlic mashed potatoes
Prepare Your Potatoes: Start by peeling those Yukon Gold potatoes. Cut them into equal chunks for even cooking—think of them as little potato soldiers ready for battle in boiling water.
Boil Until Tender: Place the potato chunks into a large pot filled with cold salted water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. You want them soft but not mushy!
Roast Your Garlic: While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap whole garlic cloves in aluminum foil with a drizzle of olive oil and roast for about 30-35 minutes until they become golden and fragrant.
Mash Those Spuds!: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot over low heat. Add butter and roasted garlic cloves (squeeze them out of their skins like they’re giving you a hug) while mashing until smooth.
Add Cream & Seasoning: Pour in heavy cream gradually while mixing until you reach your desired consistency. Season generously with salt and pepper; don’t be shy! Taste test like it’s an Olympic sport.
Serve & Enjoy!: Transfer the glorious mixture into a serving bowl. Feel free to top with extra butter or herbs for visual flair! Grab a spoon—or better yet, dig in with homemade bread!
With these simple steps, you’ll have an irresistible bowl of garlic mashed potatoes that can charm anyone!
You Must Know
- Garlic mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food
- Their creamy texture and savory aroma can elevate any meal, making them a favorite at family gatherings
- Plus, they’re easy to whip up and offer endless customization options
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes until tender. While they cook, roast garlic for a mellow flavor enhancement that will transform your mashed potatoes into a culinary masterpiece.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding cream cheese or sour cream for extra creaminess. You can also sprinkle in some fresh herbs or cheese for an exciting twist that reflects your personal taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover garlic mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect garlic mashed potatoes, use Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery flavor
- Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning
- Remember, fresh garlic can be overpowering; balance is key!
Some of my fondest memories revolve around family dinners filled with laughter and delicious garlic mashed potatoes. My dad always said they were his secret weapon to get us to clean our plates!
FAQ
What type of potatoes work best for garlic mashed potatoes?
Yukon Gold potatoes yield creamy and flavorful garlic mashed potatoes that everyone loves.
Can I make garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge until needed.
How do I prevent my mashed potatoes from being gluey?
Avoid over-mixing your potatoes; mash them gently for perfect texture without gumminess.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a creamy, comforting side dish that brings warmth to any meal. With their buttery texture and fragrant garlic flavor, they are the perfect accompaniment for chicken, beef, or as a satisfying standalone dish. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, these mashed potatoes will quickly become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling/Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
- 6 cloves fresh garlic
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Peel and cut Yukon Gold potatoes into equal chunks.
- Boil potatoes in cold salted water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- While boiling, wrap garlic cloves in foil with olive oil and roast at 400°F for 30-35 minutes.
- Drain potatoes and return to pot over low heat. Add butter and roasted garlic, mashing until smooth.
- Gradually mix in heavy cream until desired consistency is reached, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve in a bowl topped with extra butter or herbs if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For added richness, consider mixing in cream cheese or sour cream. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can enhance flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently with a splash of milk.