Elaine GordonAh, the joy of creamy garlic mashed potatoes! They hold their own beautifully alongside so many meals. Imagine them beside a succulent roast chicken or grilled steak, the kind that just makes you feel right at home.
Serve these mashed potatoes with sautéed greens, like spinach or kale, for a colorful plate. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, like a crisp Caesar or a zesty arugula salad. And if you’re feeling adventurous, throw some roasted vegetables on the side.
Trust me, they won’t overshadow the star of the show. Let’s dive into the creamy goodness.
You’ve probably experienced the enchanting allure of a well-made mashed potato. Now, imagine that comfort enhanced with the rich flavors of garlic and cream.
The result? Best creamy garlic mashed potatoes that will dance on your taste buds! These potatoes are not just a side dish; they are an experience.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I take pride in crafting dishes that sing with flavor while being easy to prepare.
Trust me, after trying this recipe, you will never look at mashed potatoes the same way again! With the right blend of ingredients and a touch of love, you will elevate your potato game.
What is Best Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes?
Best creamy garlic mashed potatoes, simply put, are a comforting side dish made from perfectly whipped potatoes infused with creamy goodness and the bold kick of garlic.
They are silky, smooth, and bursting with flavor. The key is to use quality potatoes, rich cream, and fresh garlic. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
The flavor of these mashed potatoes is a delightful mix of creamy and savory. The richness of the cream and butter balances beautifully with the pungent but sweet notes of garlic.
Each bite offers a velvety texture complemented by a hint of earthy herbs. The surprise addition of lemon zest brightens everything up, providing a refreshing finish that makes the dish pop.
What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes?
You might wonder, how does this recipe stand out? Well, let’s break down its uniqueness:
1. Quality Ingredients: We use a combination of rich heavy cream and oat milk for an extra creamy texture. The oat milk adds a subtle nutty flavor, enriching the overall experience.
2. Fresh Garlic: While many recipes may call for garlic powder, we’re using freshly minced garlic, which packs a stronger punch. The roasting or sautéing process enhances its natural sweetness.
3. Fresh Herbs: Incorporating freshly chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme adds a layer of complexity and freshness not often found in traditional recipes.
4. Lemon Zest: This is the secret ingredient. A little lemon zest gives the dish a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness.
5. Parmesan Cheese: Adding freshly grated Parmesan provides umami and depth, elevating ordinary mashed potatoes to something extraordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful mashed potatoes:
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) salted butter
- 1/2 cup rich heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsweetened oat milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon freshly minced herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
- 5 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into large, evenly sized chunks
- Sea salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Your Potatoes
Start by peeling and cutting your Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes into large, evenly sized chunks. This helps them cook at the same rate.
Place them in a large pot filled with cold, salted water. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the potatoes cook until they are fork-tender, roughly 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Infuse the Garlic
While the potatoes are cooking, take a medium saucepan and melt your salted butter over low heat. Add the two tablespoons of chopped garlic. Cook gently until the garlic is fragrant and light golden in color. This step infuses the butter with garlic flavor without overpowering it. Once ready, remove from heat.
Step 3: Drain and Mash
When the potatoes are cooked, drain them well in a colander. Return the drained potatoes to the pot over low heat.
This step helps eliminate excess moisture. Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash the potatoes until smooth. The ricer gives an incredibly fluffy texture, but if you don’t have one, a masher will work just fine.
Step 4: Add the Creamy Goodness
Pour in the melted garlic butter, heavy cream, oat milk, and sour cream into the mashed potatoes. Stir until combined. Each addition enhances the creaminess, so mix gently but thoroughly. As you do, season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Incorporate the Zest and Herbs
Now, it’s time for the magic touch! Stir in the lemon zest and freshly minced herbs. This is where it comes alive! Finally, fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, making sure it’s well incorporated and melted into the warm potatoes.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Give your mashed potatoes a taste. This is the moment to adjust seasonings. A sprinkle more of salt or pepper can make all the difference. If you like it creamier, add a splash more of heavy cream or oat milk.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your creamy garlic mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. If desired, garnish with additional herbs or a drizzle of melted butter. Get ready for the compliments!
Tips on Making the Best Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Here are a few tips to ensure your mashed potatoes turn out amazing every time:
- Choose Your Potatoes Wisely: Yukon Gold is often preferred for its creamy texture, but Russet potatoes work well, too.
- Heat Matters: Keeping the potatoes warm while mashing helps maintain their fluffy texture.
- Avoid Overworking: Over-mixing can lead to gummy potatoes. Mix just until combined for the best results.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh herbs and garlic. They elevate the dish and make a significant difference in taste.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasonings. You might prefer a little more salt or a hint of more lemon zest for brightness.
How Can I Store This Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes?
If you manage to have leftovers, congratulations! Creamy garlic mashed potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To keep them fresh, place them in an airtight container. Reheating is simple: microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of cream, milk, or broth to maintain creaminess.
Ingredient Substitutes
Sometimes, you might be out of certain ingredients. No worries! Here are some suitable substitutes:
- Heavy Cream: Substitute with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or cashew cream.
- Oat Milk: Any plant-based milk, like almond milk or soy milk, works nicely. Just make sure it is unsweetened.
- Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be used as a tangy alternative, or opt for cashew yogurt for a dairy-free option.
- Parmesan Cheese: Nutritional yeast will provide a cheesy flavor without dairy. For a tangy kick, try using feta cheese.
Best Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Equipment
- Saucepan
Ingredients
- 8 tablespoons 1 stick salted butter
- 1/2 cup rich heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsweetened oat milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon freshly minced herbs rosemary, thyme, or parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
- 5 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes peeled and cut into large, evenly sized chunks
- Sea salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Start by peeling and cutting your Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes into large, evenly sized chunks. This helps them cook at the same rate.
- Place them in a large pot filled with cold, salted water. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the potatoes cook until they are fork-tender, roughly 15-20 minutes.
- While the potatoes are cooking, take a medium saucepan and melt your salted butter over low heat. Add the two tablespoons of chopped garlic. Cook gently until the garlic is fragrant and light golden in color. This step infuses the butter with garlic flavor without overpowering it. Once ready, remove from heat.
- When the potatoes are cooked, drain them well in a colander. Return the drained potatoes to the pot over low heat.
- This step helps eliminate excess moisture. Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash the potatoes until smooth. The ricer gives an incredibly fluffy texture, but if you don’t have one, a masher will work just fine.
- Pour in the melted garlic butter, heavy cream, oat milk, and sour cream into the mashed potatoes. Stir until combined. Each addition enhances the creaminess, so mix gently but thoroughly. As you do, season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Now, it’s time for the magic touch! Stir in the lemon zest and freshly minced herbs. This is where it comes alive! Finally, fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, making sure it’s well incorporated and melted into the warm potatoes.
- Give your mashed potatoes a taste. This is the moment to adjust seasonings. A sprinkle more of salt or pepper can make all the difference. If you like it creamier, add a splash more of heavy cream or oat milk.
- Transfer your creamy garlic mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. If desired, garnish with additional herbs or a drizzle of melted butter. Get ready for the compliments!
Notes
- Choose Your Potatoes Wisely: Yukon Gold is often preferred for its creamy texture, but Russet potatoes work well, too.
- Heat Matters: Keeping the potatoes warm while mashing helps maintain their fluffy texture.
- Avoid Overworking: Over-mixing can lead to gummy potatoes. Mix just until combined for the best results.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh herbs and garlic. They elevate the dish and make a significant difference in taste.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasonings. You might prefer a little more salt or a hint of more lemon zest for brightness.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are more than just a side dish; they are a comfort food staple that brings joy to any meal. The blend of garlic, creamy texture, and zesty hints creates a masterpiece that pairs well with many dishes.
As someone who has played in the kitchen to perfect this recipe, I assure you, it’s worth every minute spent.
So grab your ingredients and give it a shot. You won’t be disappointed. Enjoy every delightful bite, and watch as this dish becomes a favorite among family and friends.
After all, who can resist the allure of perfectly whipped potatoes seasoned to perfection? Enjoy!
