Imagine a side dish so decadent, so luxuriously smooth, that it steals the spotlight from the main course. These Garlic Mashed Potatoes aren't just a simple side – they're a culinary experience that transforms humble potatoes into a creamy, garlicky masterpiece that will have your family and guests begging for seconds. With a perfect balance of rich butter, aromatic garlic, and velvety texture, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with cold water and add the peeled and cubed potatoes. Ensure the water covers the potatoes by about an inch.
- Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring the pot to a rolling boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-high and continue cooking until potatoes are fork-tender, approximately 15-18 minutes.
- While potatoes are cooking, melt 1/2 cup of butter in a small saucepan. Add minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté over low heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Drain the cooked potatoes in a colander, then return them to the hot pot. Allow excess moisture to evaporate for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour the warm milk and half of the garlic butter mixture into the potatoes. Use a potato masher or electric mixer to mash until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly.
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and drizzle the remaining garlic butter over the top.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the creamiest results.
- Salt Your Cooking Water: Add salt to the potato water before boiling to enhance the potatoes' natural flavor from the inside out.
- Warm Your Milk: Use warm milk when mashing to prevent cooling down the potatoes and maintain a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Don't Overmix: When mashing, mix just until smooth to avoid a gluey texture. Overworking potatoes can release too much starch.
- Low and Slow Garlic: Sauté garlic on low heat to prevent burning, which can make it bitter.
- Optional Garnish: For extra flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle some fresh chopped chives or parsley on top before serving.
- Keep Them Hot: Serve immediately or keep warm in a covered dish to maintain the best texture and temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
