Creamy Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes

It’s funny how some of the simplest dishes can become absolute staples in our homes, isn’t it? For me, Creamy Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes are exactly that. From busy weeknight dinners to festive holiday feasts, these potatoes have graced our table more times than I can count, and each time, they disappear in minutes. There’s just something utterly irresistible about the fluffy, cloud-like texture infused with the rich aroma of garlic and butter. Even my pickiest eater, my youngest son, who often approaches vegetables with suspicion, devours these mashed potatoes with gusto. Honestly, I’ve tried countless mashed potato recipes over the years, but this creamy garlic butter version? It’s the one that always gets requested, the one that elicits sighs of contentment around the dinner table, and the one I find myself making again and again. If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both comforting and impressive, look no further. These Creamy Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes are guaranteed to become your new family favorite too.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes

• Potatoes: 3 lbs of Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered. These starchy potatoes are perfect for creating that classic fluffy and creamy mashed potato texture.
• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), divided. Butter is the key to richness and flavor, and we’ll use it in two stages to maximize that buttery goodness.
• Garlic: 6 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is essential for that pungent, aromatic garlic butter flavor that elevates these potatoes.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup. Heavy cream adds luxurious richness and creaminess, making these mashed potatoes truly decadent.
• Milk: 1/2 cup. Milk helps to thin out the mashed potatoes slightly and adds another layer of creamy texture without being too heavy.
• Cream Cheese: 4 oz, softened. This secret ingredient melts into the potatoes, adding a subtle tang and incredibly smooth, velvety texture.
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish, optional). Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of fresh, herbaceous flavor to finish the dish.
• Salt: To taste. Salt is crucial for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients and seasoning the potatoes perfectly.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground, to taste. Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice that complements the garlic and butter beautifully.

Instructions: Making the Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes

Making these incredibly flavorful and creamy mashed potatoes is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve mashed potato perfection every time:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by thoroughly washing your potatoes. Even though we are peeling them, washing removes any dirt and residue. Once washed, peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler. Make sure to remove all the skin to ensure a smooth and lump-free mash. After peeling, quarter the potatoes. Cutting them into smaller, uniform pieces helps them cook evenly and faster. Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Cover the potatoes in the pot with cold water. The water should be about an inch above the potatoes. Adding cold water is important because it allows the potatoes to heat up gradually along with the water, cooking them more evenly. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. Salting the water seasons the potatoes from the inside out, enhancing their flavor. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let the potatoes simmer gently until they are fork-tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your potato pieces and the type of potato. You’ll know they are ready when a fork easily pierces through a potato piece without resistance.

Step 3: Drain and Dry the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are fork-tender, carefully drain them in a colander. It’s crucial to drain them thoroughly to remove excess water, which can lead to watery mashed potatoes. After draining, return the potatoes to the empty pot. Place the pot back on the stovetop over low heat for about 1-2 minutes. This step seems simple, but it’s vital for drying out any remaining moisture in the potatoes. Stir them gently while they are over the low heat. This extra step of drying ensures that your mashed potatoes will be fluffy and not waterlogged.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

While the potatoes are drying, prepare the garlic butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt 8 tablespoons (1 stick) of unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic will taste bitter. Sautéing the garlic in butter infuses the butter with a rich garlic flavor, which is the heart of this recipe. Once fragrant, remove the garlic butter from the heat and set aside.

Step 5: Mash the Potatoes

Now it’s time to mash the potatoes. You can use a potato ricer, a food mill, or a hand masher. For the fluffiest results, a ricer or food mill is ideal as they create a very smooth and lump-free mash. If using a hand masher, mash the potatoes until they are mostly smooth, but don’t over-mash them, as this can make them gummy.

Step 6: Add Creaminess and Flavor

To the mashed potatoes, add the softened cream cheese, the remaining 8 tablespoons (1 stick) of unsalted butter (cut into pieces), heavy cream, and milk. The warmth of the potatoes will help melt the cream cheese and butter. Pour the fragrant garlic butter sauce over the potatoes as well.

Step 7: Combine and Season

Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold all the ingredients together until everything is well combined and the mashed potatoes are smooth and creamy. Avoid overmixing at this stage as well, as it can also lead to gummy potatoes. Taste the mashed potatoes and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – proper seasoning is key to bringing out all the flavors. Start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper and adjust as needed.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish (Optional)

Transfer the creamy garlic butter mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the incredible flavors and textures of your homemade creamy garlic butter mashed potatoes! They are the perfect side dish for almost any meal.

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes

(Per Serving, approximately 1 cup)

• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g

Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific brands and measurements.

Preparation Time for Creamy Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

This recipe for Creamy Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes is relatively quick and easy, perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need a delicious side dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The majority of the time is spent boiling the potatoes, and the garlic butter sauce comes together while the potatoes are cooking, making the process efficient and streamlined.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes

These versatile and flavorful mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to a wide variety of dishes. Here are some delicious ways to serve them:

• As a Classic Side Dish for Main Courses:
  • Steak: Serve alongside a juicy grilled steak, such as ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon. The richness of the mashed potatoes complements the savory steak beautifully.
  • Roast Chicken or Turkey: Perfect with roasted poultry, whether it’s a whole roasted chicken, turkey breast, or individual chicken thighs. Ideal for Sunday dinners or holiday feasts.
  • Pork Chops or Roast Pork: The creamy texture and garlic butter flavor pair wonderfully with pan-fried or roasted pork chops and tender roast pork.
  • Meatloaf: A classic comfort food pairing! Creamy mashed potatoes and savory meatloaf are a match made in heaven.
  • Salmon or Baked Fish: While mashed potatoes are often served with meat, they also complement baked or pan-seared fish like salmon, cod, or halibut.
  • Shepherd’s Pie: Use these mashed potatoes as a topping for a hearty Shepherd’s Pie, adding an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
• For Holiday Meals and Special Occasions:
  • Thanksgiving: A must-have side dish for Thanksgiving dinner! These mashed potatoes will be a crowd-pleaser alongside turkey, stuffing, and gravy.
  • Christmas: Elevate your Christmas dinner with these decadent mashed potatoes. They are a festive and comforting addition to the holiday table.
  • Easter: Perfect for Easter brunch or dinner, complementing ham, lamb, or other spring-inspired dishes.
• Creative Serving Ideas:
  • Mashed Potato Bowls: Create a “mashed potato bowl” bar with various toppings like shredded cheese, bacon bits, chives, sour cream, chili, or sautéed vegetables.
  • Potato Pancakes or Cakes: Use leftover mashed potatoes to make delicious potato pancakes or cakes the next day.
  • Stuffing or Filling: Incorporate leftover mashed potatoes into stuffing recipes or use them as a filling for pierogi or dumplings.
  • Soup Thickener: Add a spoonful of mashed potatoes to creamy soups to thicken them and add richness.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these Creamy Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes are sure to be a hit!

Additional Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes

To ensure your Creamy Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes are absolutely perfect every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes, opt for starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet. Yukon Golds have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture, while Russets are very starchy and become incredibly fluffy when mashed. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they don’t mash as well and can become gummy.
2. Cut Potatoes Uniformly: Ensure that you cut the potatoes into roughly equal-sized pieces before boiling. This will ensure they cook at the same rate and prevent some pieces from being overcooked while others are still undercooked.
3. Start with Cold Water: Always start boiling potatoes in cold water, not hot. Starting in cold water allows the potatoes to heat up gradually and cook evenly from the inside out. Dropping potatoes into boiling water can cause the outside to cook faster than the inside, resulting in unevenly cooked potatoes.
4. Don’t Overboil: Boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender, but don’t overcook them. Overcooked potatoes can absorb too much water and become waterlogged and less flavorful. Test for doneness by piercing a potato piece with a fork – it should slide in easily with little resistance.
5. Dry Potatoes Thoroughly After Draining: As mentioned in the instructions, returning the drained potatoes to the warm pot over low heat to dry out any excess moisture is crucial. This step prevents watery mashed potatoes and helps create a fluffier texture.
6. Warm Dairy Ingredients: For the creamiest mashed potatoes, warm the heavy cream and milk before adding them to the potatoes. Cold dairy can cool down the potatoes too quickly and may result in a less smooth texture. You can gently warm them in a saucepan or microwave for a minute or two.
7. Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the mashed potatoes after adding the dairy and butter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the potatoes, leading to a gummy or gluey texture. Mash or stir just until everything is combined and smooth.
8. Taste and Season Generously: Seasoning is key to flavorful mashed potatoes. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Taste after adding all the ingredients and add more seasoning gradually until you achieve the perfect flavor. Remember that mashed potatoes can handle a good amount of salt and pepper.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the most delicious and creamy garlic butter mashed potatoes you’ve ever tasted!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can! While Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are highly recommended for their creamy and fluffy texture, you can experiment with other potato varieties. For a slightly denser and more flavorful mash, you could try using a mix of Yukon Gold and red potatoes, but be mindful that red potatoes are waxier and may require a bit more mashing to achieve a smooth consistency. Avoid completely waxy potatoes as they don’t mash well.

Q2: Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare these mashed potatoes ahead of time. To make them ahead, follow the recipe as instructed, but slightly undercook the potatoes. Once mashed, allow them to cool slightly, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, you can gently warm them in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore their creamy texture, or microwave them in intervals, stirring in between.

Q3: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: While heavy cream contributes significantly to the richness and creaminess of these mashed potatoes, you can substitute it with milk if needed. However, the texture will be less decadent. For a richer flavor than just milk, you could use half-and-half or whole milk for a closer result to using heavy cream. You might need to adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency.

Q4: How do I prevent mashed potatoes from becoming gummy?
A: Gummy mashed potatoes are usually a result of overmixing or using the wrong type of potatoes. Avoid overmixing the potatoes, especially after adding the dairy and butter. Use starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet, and be gentle when mashing. Also, make sure to dry the potatoes thoroughly after boiling to remove excess moisture, which can also contribute to gumminess.

Q5: Can I add other flavors to these mashed potatoes?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is a great base for flavor variations. You can experiment with adding roasted garlic instead of sautéed garlic for a sweeter, milder garlic flavor. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives can be added along with the parsley for different flavor profiles. For a cheesy variation, you could add shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyere cheese. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg for warmth or a touch of Dijon mustard for tang.

Q6: Can I make these mashed potatoes dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be dairy-free. Substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter alternative. Replace the heavy cream and milk with unsweetened plant-based milk like oat milk or cashew milk, which are creamier than other options. For the cream cheese, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious and creamy.

Q7: How do I reheat leftover mashed potatoes without them drying out?
A: To reheat mashed potatoes without drying them out, add a splash of milk, cream, or even broth when reheating. Reheat them gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, with a splash of liquid. Avoid overheating, which can make them dry and grainy.

Q8: What can I do if my mashed potatoes are too thick?
A: If your mashed potatoes are too thick, simply add a little more warm milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir gently to incorporate the liquid and check the consistency after each addition. You can also add a bit of warm broth or even the potato cooking water (reserved before draining) to thin them out if you prefer.

Enjoy making and serving these incredibly delicious and comforting Creamy Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes! They are sure to become a beloved side dish for your family and friends.

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