Are You Ready to Fall in Love with the Best Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

I'm not going to lie. I have had a hard time fine-tuning my mashed potatoes. My recipes were either too pasty or too runny. Finally, last year, I found the perfect combination, and it all comes down to preparation. Fluffy mashed potatoes come together by partially mashing before adding your butter and milk.

In this post, we’ll explore the best garlic mashed potatoes recipe you’ll ever make. Get your potato peeler ready because you’re about to fall in love!

Why Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Garlic elevates this beloved classic into something extraordinary. The rich, buttery taste of russet potatoes blends seamlessly with the robust flavor of garlic, creating a delightful experience with every bite.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. Garlic mashed potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes—think juicy roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a hearty stew. You can easily adjust the recipe and add your favorite herbs or cheese. For example, adding just 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese can enhance the flavor and add creaminess.

What You'll Need

Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients for the best garlic mashed potatoes:

• 3 pounds (1.4 kg) of russet potatoes (or your preferred variety)

• 3 cloves of garlic

• ½ cup (125 ml) of unsalted butter

• 1 cup (250 ml) whole milk

• 1/2 cup (125 ml) sour cream (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional but recommended!)

  
  

Instructions

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process for creating the best garlic mashed potatoes:

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them in half. Place the potatoes and whole cloves of garlic in a large pot, cover with cold water. Season the water with one tablespoon of salt.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and gently boil for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes can easily be pierced with a fork.

Step 3: Drain and Steam Dry

After the potatoes are tender and cooked, drain the water and return the potatoes and garlic to the pot. Let the potatoes steam dry for a minute or two over low heat. This step helps create an incredibly fluffy texture.

Step 4: Mash Away

It’s time to mash the potatoes and garlic! Use a potato masher, ricer or speed stand mixer on a slow speed. Be careful using a hand mixer or high-speed electric mixer, you should break down the potatoes slowly. Overworking the potatoes releases too much starch quickly and makes the potatoes gummy.

Step 5: Add Butter and Cream

When the potatoes are partially mashed add the unsalted butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper and continue to mash the potatoes until smooth and lump free.

Step 6: Add the Sour Cream

Once the potatoes have reached the desired consistency, fold in the sour cream. This adds more creaminess to the potatoes. You may prefer to skip this step, that is fine too.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and additional flavor.

Tips for the Best Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Select high-quality russet potatoes, real butter, and fresh garlic for maximum flavor.

  
  

• Mix with Care: Avoid overmixing, as this can make your mashed potatoes gummy. Mix just until combined for ideal texture.

  
  

• Season Generously: Taste your mash as you go! Don’t hesitate to add more salt or pepper.

  
  

• Prepare Ahead: You can make garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time. Simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

  
  

Variations to Try

While this recipe is fantastic on its own, there are plenty of fun variations you can experiment with:

• Cheesy Goodness: Stir in shredded cheese for a delicious twist. Cheddar, parmesan, or cream cheese add an extra layer of flavor.

  
  

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for an aromatic touch.

  
  

• Add Some Heat: If you like a little spice, a dash of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce can elevate the dish.

  
  

Your Perfect Side Dish Awaits

With every creamy bite, you'll appreciate why garlic mashed potatoes hold a special place in many hearts. Enjoy!