How to Make Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Easy Recipe for Perfect Spuds
Garlic mashed potatoes are a comfort food classic. Creamy, rich, and full of flavor, they’ve earned a spot at dinner tables across the world. From family dinners to holiday feasts, this side dish never goes out of style. It’s easy to see why.
The smooth texture of buttery potatoes combined with mellow, roasted garlic is simply irresistible. People don’t just like garlic mashed potatoes—they love them.
Whether you’re serving them with roast chicken, steak, or a big Thanksgiving turkey, they always get scooped up fast. And the best part? They’re simple to make.
A few pantry staples, a couple of easy steps, and you’ve got a dish that feels indulgent but takes little effort.
Garlic mashed potatoes are more than just a side—they’re a crowd-pleaser. They offer warmth, comfort, and that satisfying bite everyone craves. They also give you a great way to use roasted garlic, which brings a deeper, sweeter flavor than raw.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the steps to get them just right. I’ll share tips to make them extra creamy, how to avoid common mistakes, and a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Ready?
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 potato masher
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes about 5 medium
- 4 cloves garlic peeled
- 1 cup whole milk warm
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick) cut into pieces
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt plus more for boiling the potatoes in
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Peel and cut potatoes into chunks (about 2-inch pieces). Rinse under cold water to remove excess starch.
- Place potatoes and garlic in a large pot. Cover with cold water by 1 inch. Add a generous pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are very tender, 15–20 minutes.
- Drain well and return potatoes and garlic to the pot. Let steam off for 1–2 minutes to dry them slightly.
- Mash using a potato masher or ricer until the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in the butter until it is melted and fully absorbed.
- Slowly add warm milk, stirring gently until creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Meals Garlic Mashed Potatoes Pairs Well With
| Dish | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Roast Chicken | Juicy, tender roast chicken with crispy skin | The mild, savory flavor of chicken complements the creamy, garlicky potatoes perfectly. |
| Grilled Steak | Grilled or pan-seared steak cooked to your liking | The rich, hearty beef balances the smooth texture and adds depth to the meal. |
| Gravy or Pan Sauce | Classic brown gravy or herb-infused pan sauce | Moistens the potatoes and adds an extra layer of savory flavor. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus roasted to caramelized perfection | The natural sweetness and crispness contrast the creamy potatoes. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Classic comfort food meatloaf with savory seasoning | Hearty and filling, meatloaf pairs naturally with creamy mashed potatoes. |
| Pork Tenderloin | Roasted or grilled pork tenderloin, tender and juicy | The subtle sweetness of pork enhances the garlic flavors in the potatoes. |
| Green Beans Almondine | Green beans sautéed with butter and toasted almonds | Adds crunch and a fresh vegetable note to the creamy dish. |
| Baked Salmon | Pan-seared or baked salmon with light seasoning | The rich, oily fish contrasts nicely with the mellow garlic mashed potatoes. |
How to Store Leftover Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Cool Quickly: Let the mashed potatoes cool to room temperature within 1–2 hours after cooking. Don’t leave them out longer than that to avoid bacteria growth.
Use an Airtight Container: Transfer the cooled mashed potatoes into a clean, airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.
Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator. Garlic mashed potatoes will keep well for 3 to 5 days when properly stored.
Freezing (Optional): For longer storage, freeze mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. They keep well for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Tips for Reheating
Microwave: Reheat in short intervals, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a saucepan, stirring and adding a little milk or butter as needed.
Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Avoid reheating more than once to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
