If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, comforting dish that warms both the heart and the belly, look no further than Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes! This recipe transforms humble potatoes into a rich and velvety side that pairs beautifully with just about anything. With the roasted garlic lending a sweet and savory depth, each scoop is a slice of heaven. Trust me, these mashed potatoes will steal the show at your next dinner gathering!
Budget Information
This Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe totals around $8.50, which brings it to a delightful budget-friendly $1.42 per serving based on a yield of six servings. With such a modest investment, you won’t just feed your loved ones; you’ll make their taste buds sing!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it captures the essence of comfort food—it’s rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying. The secret lies in the roasted garlic, which mellows out the sharpness of raw garlic and adds a natural sweetness that beautifully complements the earthy flavor of the potatoes. Plus, who doesn’t love mashed potatoes? With a few simple techniques—like boiling the potatoes just right and using warm milk—you’ll achieve that perfect, lump-free texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these dreamy mashed potatoes:
- 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes ($3.00) – The creamy texture makes them ideal, but you could substitute with Russets for a fluffier texture.
- 1 head of garlic ($0.50) – Roasting it gives a sweet flavor that can’t be beaten.
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream ($1.50) – You can use whole milk for a lighter version.
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter ($0.75) – For that rich flavor and silky feel.
- Salt and pepper to taste ($0.25) – Essential seasonings for enhancing flavor.
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish ($0.50) – Optional, but they add a refreshing burst of color and flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, wrap your whole head of garlic in aluminum foil. Just make sure to drizzle a tiny bit of olive oil before sealing it up; this will transform the garlic into delicious sweetness as it roasts for about 30-35 minutes.
Step 2: While the garlic is roasting, peel and chop your Yukon Gold potatoes into equal-sized chunks. This ensures they all cook evenly. Toss them into a large pot, cover them with cold water, and sprinkle in a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and let them cook for around 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
Step 3: Once the garlic is fragrant and your potatoes are happily boiling, it’s time to drain the potatoes well. You want to make sure you get rid of any excess water to keep them creamy. After draining, let them sit in the pot for a minute. This helps evaporate moisture and prevents them from getting gummy.
Step 4: Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins (they should slide out effortlessly) and into the potatoes. Add in the butter, heavy cream, and a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Now, grab your potato masher or a hand mixer for the fun part!
Step 5: Mash your potatoes to your desired smoothness. This is where you can control the texture—some like it creamy, while others prefer a bit of chunkiness. Just watch out not to overmix, as it can lead to gluey potatoes.
Step 6: Taste your mashed masterpiece and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Top it off with fresh chives or parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Serve them hot and watch as they disappear!
Nutritional Facts
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values for each serving:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Total Fats: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers? Lucky you! Store any extra mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the microwave or a pot on low heat, adding a splash more cream or milk to restore that luxurious texture. Stir often to prevent sticking and ensure they heat evenly.
Serving Suggestions
These Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are versatile! Serve them alongside roasted chicken for a classic dinner, or enjoy them with steak for a hearty meal. They also make a fantastic base for a rich gravy or as a side for a vegetarian dish like a stuffed bell pepper. Don’t forget to pair them with some steamed veggies for a balanced plate!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
For an extra kick, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan or cream cheese for a flavor boost! You could also infuse the cream with herbs like thyme or rosemary while it heats up to add a refreshing twist. And if you’re feeling adventurous, serve these potatoes with a unique topping like sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for an elevated experience.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato? Absolutely! While Yukon Golds are my favorite for their creaminess, you can use Russet or red potatoes. Just cook them until fork-tender.
What if I want to make these ahead of time? You can prepare the mashed potatoes and store them in the fridge, then reheat them with a little added cream or butter when you’re ready to serve.
Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes! Simply substitute the butter with vegan butter and use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream.
What’s the best way to keep mashed potatoes warm? Place them in a slow cooker on the warm setting, and cover to keep the heat in. Stir occasionally if you have the chance!
How do I prevent my mashed potatoes from being gummy? Overmixing is the enemy! Mash just until smooth and avoid the food processor, as it creates too much gluten.
