If you’ve ever craved the kind of creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes that are the highlight of any meal, then the Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes are about to become your go-to recipe. This irresistible dish turns everyday ingredients into something comforting and luxurious, thanks to the mellow richness of gently simmered garlic mingling with buttery potatoes. With just a handful of simple steps, you get a side that brightens up weeknights and shines on holiday tables!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These are the basics that unlock pure mashed potato magic. Each one is thoughtfully chosen to ensure the Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes are silky-smooth, flavorful, and totally crave-worthy.
- Yukon Gold or russet potatoes (3 pounds, peeled and cut into chunks): Yukon Golds give a buttery flavor and creamy texture, while russets deliver lightness—either way, you’ll get dreamy results.
- Garlic cloves (4, peeled): Garlic simmers alongside the potatoes, lending a gentle, savory depth that never overpowers.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Adds sumptuous richness and helps the potatoes become lusciously smooth.
- Whole milk (1 cup, more as needed): For creaminess and moisture, whole milk keeps the mash silky—add a splash more for extra softness.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup, optional): If you love a tangy, ultra-creamy finish, sour cream is your secret weapon.
- Salt (1 1/2 teaspoons): Essential for bringing out all the subtle flavors in the potatoes and garlic.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick to balance the richness.
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley (for garnish, optional): These herbs add fresh flavor and a pop of color that makes the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.
How to Make Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Prep and Boil the Potatoes and Garlic
Start by peeling your potatoes and cutting them into manageable chunks to help them cook evenly. Place them, along with the peeled garlic cloves, into a large pot and cover everything with cold, salted water. Bringing it all up to temperature together ensures the potatoes cook through evenly and the garlic infuses its mellow savoriness into every bite.
Step 2: Simmer Until Tender
Once the pot comes to a boil over medium-high heat, reduce the heat and let everything simmer. Check after about 15 to 20 minutes—when a fork slides in easily, the potatoes are perfectly tender and ready for mashing. This step is where the magic starts to happen!
Step 3: Drain and Mash
Drain the cooked potatoes and garlic thoroughly and return them to the pot while they’re still hot. Add the butter at this point, letting it melt luxuriously into the potatoes. Use a masher to blend everything until mostly smooth; don’t worry about a few small lumps—they add character!
Step 4: Stir in the Milk and Get Creamy
Warm your milk (a quick zap in the microwave works wonders) and pour it into the potatoes as you stir. This loosens things up and creates that dreamy, creamy consistency you crave. Start with a cup but feel free to add a bit more for extra silkiness.
Step 5: Add Sour Cream, Season, and Taste
If you’re going for maximum lusciousness, stir in that optional sour cream next. Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper, then taste and adjust if you want a bit more flavor. This is your chance to make the Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes truly your own—don’t be shy!
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Spoon your finished potatoes into a serving bowl. Sprinkle with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a burst of green and a touch of freshness. Serve warm, and watch everyone dig in with delight!
How to Serve Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garnishes
A handful of vibrant chives or parsley right before serving makes these Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes shine. If you’re feeling extra, a pat of melting butter or even a light dusting of Parmesan cheese on top adds restaurant-worthy flair.
Side Dishes
These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with your favorite mains—think classic roasted chicken, cozy meatloaf, or a crisp skillet-cooked salmon. They’re also happy nestled next to vegetables like roasted carrots or sautéed green beans, making them super versatile for every dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, scoop potato mounds onto individual plates with a piping bag for an elegant touch, or serve in a large rustic bowl for a family-style feast. Leftover Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes can even be shaped into patties and pan-fried for a golden, crispy treat the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to four days. Press a layer of plastic wrap right onto the potatoes before sealing to help retain moisture and freshness.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead, good news: they freeze surprisingly well! Once completely cooled, portion the potatoes into freezer-safe bags or containers. Press out as much air as possible, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To bring your Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes back to their original glory, gently reheat them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen them up. Stir frequently until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring after each burst for even creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and russet potatoes are stars for their texture and flavor, you can use red potatoes for a slightly different result. Just know they may be a touch denser, but still delicious in the Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes.
Should I roast the garlic first?
Simmering the garlic with the potatoes makes things super quick and easy, but if you want an even sweeter, more mellow garlic flavor, roasting is a fun option. Simply wrap the cloves in foil with a little oil and bake at 400°F for about 25 minutes, then mash them right in!
Is the sour cream necessary?
Nope! It’s totally optional—sour cream adds luxurious tang and extra creaminess, but these Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes will still be wonderful and smooth without it.
Can I make the Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare them up to a day in advance and store them in the fridge. A gentle reheat on the stove or in the oven with a splash of milk will bring them right back to their perfect creamy state.
How do I make these dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, swap in your favorite non-dairy butter and unsweetened plant-based milk. A touch of olive oil and a dollop of coconut yogurt or cashew cream works wonders in the Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes, too!
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason the Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes earn rave reviews every time—they’re quick, they’re luscious, and they never fail to impress. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving cozy comfort food, don’t wait to give these a place at your table!
Print
Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
These Easiest Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a creamy and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. Made with Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, roasted garlic, butter, milk, and optional sour cream, these mashed potatoes are easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
Potatoes:
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Other Ingredients:
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup whole milk (more as needed)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes: Place the potatoes and garlic cloves in a large pot, cover with cold, salted water, and boil until tender.
- Mash Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and garlic, return them to the pot, add butter, and mash until smooth.
- Add Milk and Seasoning: Pour in warm milk, stir until creamy, add sour cream if desired, then season with salt and pepper.
- Finish and Serve: Adjust seasoning as needed, transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with chives or parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, roast the garlic cloves beforehand or add grated Parmesan cheese.
- Leftovers reheat well — just add a splash of milk when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mashing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
