Introduction
Few dishes embody pure comfort food quite like a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes. This recipe for Mashed Potatoes with Garlic and Cream takes a classic side dish and elevates it to restaurant-quality perfection. The potatoes are whipped until fluffy, infused with the mellow sweetness of roasted or boiled garlic, and enriched with cream and butter for a velvety texture.
This dish is versatile enough to accompany a Thanksgiving turkey, a juicy roast chicken, grilled steak, or even as a cozy side to weeknight dinners. With its irresistible combination of creaminess and subtle garlic flavor, this recipe transforms humble potatoes into a luxurious delight.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it combines simplicity and indulgence in one dish. The garlic adds a gentle, savory depth without being overpowering, while the cream and butter create a melt-in-your-mouth smoothness. It’s the kind of food that feels warm, nostalgic, and comforting, yet sophisticated enough for holiday feasts.
Another reason I love it is how customizable it is—you can make it rustic with lumps or silky smooth, keep it classic or infuse with herbs, and it always tastes incredible. For me, this recipe is the ultimate side dish that makes any meal feel complete.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
This is a must-try because mashed potatoes are not just a side dish—they’re the star that ties the whole plate together. The creamy garlic flavor elevates them from ordinary to unforgettable, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
It’s also a recipe that works for both special occasions and everyday meals. Whether you’re cooking for family on a Sunday or serving guests at a holiday feast, these mashed potatoes are always a hit. Plus, they pair beautifully with nearly any main dish.
Preparation & Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings & Nutrition
- Servings: 6
- Calories per Serving: ~280 kcal (may vary depending on butter and cream amounts used)
Cuisine & Course
- Cuisine: American / European-inspired comfort food
- Course: Side Dish
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (about 900g) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
- 4–5 cloves garlic (peeled, whole)
- ½ cup heavy cream (warm)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- (Optional) 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Simple Cooking Directions
- Boil potatoes and garlic until tender.
- Drain and mash with butter until smooth.
- Stir in warm cream, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with herbs and serve hot.
Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into even chunks to ensure uniform cooking.
- Cook the potatoes and garlic: Place potatoes and garlic cloves in a large pot of cold salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain well: Drain the potatoes and garlic, then return them to the hot pot for 1–2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
- Mash the potatoes: Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes and garlic until smooth and lump-free.
- Add richness: Mix in butter until melted, then slowly pour in warm cream, stirring until creamy and fluffy.
- Season: Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer to a serving bowl, sprinkle with herbs, and serve immediately.
How to Serve
- Serve alongside roast turkey, chicken, beef, or pork.
- Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday dinners.
- Can also be served with a vegetarian gravy or mushroom sauce for a hearty plant-friendly meal.
Additional Recipe Tips
- Warm your cream before adding to avoid cooling down the potatoes.
- Don’t overmix with a blender—it can make the potatoes gluey.
- For extra creaminess, use Yukon Gold potatoes. For fluffier potatoes, go with Russets.
- Roast the garlic instead of boiling for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
Variations
- Cheesy Mash: Stir in Parmesan, cheddar, or cream cheese.
- Herbed Mash: Mix in fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley.
- Truffle Mash: Drizzle in truffle oil for an elegant touch.
- Vegan Option: Use olive oil or vegan butter with plant-based cream.
Freezing & Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove with extra cream or milk.
- Freezing: Freeze mashed potatoes for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat with a splash of cream to restore creaminess.
Special Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling
- Potato masher or potato ricer (for smooth texture)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Mixing bowl (optional)
Conclusion
Mashed Potatoes with Garlic and Cream are the definition of comfort food. Creamy, buttery, and infused with subtle garlic flavor, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant and satisfying side dish. Perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners, it’s a dish that never fails to please. Whether served with roast turkey, juicy steak, or a vegetarian main, these mashed potatoes will always be the star of the table.
Mashed Potatoes with Garlic and Cream
Description
Few dishes embody pure comfort food quite like a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes. This recipe for Mashed Potatoes with Garlic and Cream takes a classic side dish and elevates it to restaurant-quality perfection.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare the potatoes : Peel the potatoes and cut them into even chunks to ensure uniform cooking.
-
Cook the potatoes and garlic : Place potatoes and garlic cloves in a large pot of cold salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
-
Drain well : Drain the potatoes and garlic, then return them to the hot pot for 1–2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
-
Mash the potatoes : Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes and garlic until smooth and lump-free.
-
Add richness : Mix in butter until melted, then slowly pour in warm cream, stirring until creamy and fluffy.
-
Season : Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
-
Garnish and serve : Transfer to a serving bowl, sprinkle with herbs, and serve immediately.
