How to make Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Hello, it’s Julia from Dinner with Julia! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes: Garlic Mashed Potatoes. This dish is a staple in my kitchen and a crowd-pleaser at every gathering. It’s creamy, rich, and bursting with decadent flavors that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes • Salt & Lavender
A bowl of creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes ready to be served

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Some grocery stores sell roasted garlic cloves, which would make things even simpler. If you happen to find fresh-roasted garlic in your local market (but avoid those jars of roasted garlic paste, which can taste kind of nasty), go for it.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 5 people
Calories 500 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 small saucepan
  • 1 larger pan
  • 1 large heat-proof bowl
  • 1 wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

  • ¼ cup roasted garlic cloves
  • ½ cup milk {reduced fat is fine but not skim}
  • ½ cup heavy cream or crème fraîche
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Kosher salt
  • 2 pounds potatoes preferably Idaho or Yukon Gold, peeled and quartered

Instructions
 

  • Purée the garlic, milk and cream in a blender or food processor until smooth. Transfer to a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in butter; cover and keep warm.
  • Meanwhile, bring a large a 3-quart or larger pan of water to a boil. Add 2 teaspoons salt and the potatoes. Cook until tender, about 15 minutes; drain.
  • Arrange a potato ricer over a large heat-proof bowl and press the potatoes through it. If you don’t have a potato ricer {go out and get one - it makes super-smooth mashed potatoes!} just mash the potatoes in the bowl using a potato masher or wooden spoon.
  • Dribble in the hot milk mixture beat until the potatoes are creamy. Taste and add more salt if you think they need it. I find that they almost always need some – start with ½ teaspoon kosher salt or ¼ teaspoon table salt and go from there.
  • Serve warm, sprinkled with some freshly chopped parsley or chives.

Video

Notes

Julia's recipe for puréed potatoes includes two whole heads of blanched, peeled garlic that are slowly roasted in butter on the stove top. I tried her method, and it since it requires a few more steps than simply roasting whole garlic heads {wrapped in foil in 400-degree oven until they are softly golden} and the results are similar, I recommend using roasted garlic instead.
Keyword Garlic, Potatoes

Cooking Tips for Perfect Garlic Mashed Potatoes

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The perfect side dish to any meal: Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Now, let’s dive into some cooking tips that will help you achieve the perfect Garlic Mashed Potatoes. First, always remember to wash your potatoes before peeling them. This removes any dirt or debris that might be on the skin.

Next, don’t forget to season your water with salt before boiling your potatoes. This helps to infuse the potatoes with flavor as they cook. Also, make sure to add your potato pieces to cold water and then bring it to a boil. This ensures that your potatoes cook evenly.

When it comes to mashing your potatoes, using the right tool can make all the difference. A potato ricer or food mill can give you smooth and fluffy mashed potatoes. However, if you prefer a coarser texture, a handheld masher will do the trick.

Lastly, don’t rush the process. Take your time to properly mash your potatoes and incorporate your ingredients. This will result in a creamy and flavorful dish that’s worth every minute spent.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Mashed Potatoes

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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: a classic dish with a flavorful twist

Garlic Mashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. They make a perfect side dish to compliment hearty, saucy dishes like red wine braised short ribs, turkey Swedish meatballs, or pork chops & gravy. The potatoes soak up all that delicious sauce, making every bite a delight.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Making Garlic Mashed Potatoes has never been easier with these tips
  • What are the best potatoes for mashed potatoes? Russet potatoes are often recommended for mashed potatoes due to their high starch content, which allows them to retain more moisture and yield a smooth and creamy texture.
  • Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time? Yes, you can make mashed potatoes 2 days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat over medium heat with a bit of milk or half and half.
  • What can I add to my mashed potatoes for extra flavor? Adding garlic is a great way to enhance the flavor of your mashed potatoes. You can also experiment with other ingredients like fresh herbs, cheese, or even a splash of truffle oil for a gourmet twist.
  • How much mashed potatoes should I serve per person? The United States Department of Agriculture considers a serving of mashed potatoes to be 1 cup. However, feel free to serve more if you have big eaters at your table!
  • Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe? Yes, you can use other types of potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might vary slightly.

So there you have it, my take on the classic Garlic Mashed Potatoes. I hope you find these tips and suggestions helpful. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun in the kitchen. So don’t be afraid to put your own spin on this recipe. Happy cooking!

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