How to Make the Perfect Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
American · Easy · 45 min · 6 servings

Luxuriously smooth mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic and rich butter. This crowd-pleasing side dish is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
Why this recipe works
This Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 45 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 320 calories with 5g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 8 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1200 g Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and cubed
- 6 cloves garlic minced
- 113 g unsalted butter
- 240 ml heavy cream warmed
- 120 ml sour cream
- 1.5 tsp kosher salt
- 0.5 tsp white pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh chives chopped
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil over high heat then reduce to medium and cook for 18 to 20 minutes until fork tender. Do not overcook.
Step 2: Saute the Garlic
While potatoes cook melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small skillet over medium low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 2 to 3 minutes stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly golden. Do not let it brown.
Step 3: Drain and Dry
Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Return them to the hot pot over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes shaking occasionally to evaporate any remaining moisture for fluffier mashed potatoes.
Step 4: Mash and Mix
Remove pot from heat. Mash potatoes with a potato masher or ricer until smooth. Add remaining butter sauteed garlic warmed heavy cream and sour cream. Stir with a wooden spoon until just combined and creamy.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Season with salt and white pepper tasting as you go. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with a pat of butter and fresh chives. Serve immediately while hot.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- heavy cream → whole milk for a lighter result
- sour cream → cream cheese for extra richness
- Yukon Gold potatoes → Russet potatoes for a fluffier texture
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Overworking the potatoes with an electric mixer creates a gluey gummy texture
- Using cold dairy ingredients causes the potatoes to turn stiff and lumpy
- Do not skip the pot drying step or excess water will make potatoes watery
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 320 calories, 5g protein, 38g carbs, 17g fat, 3g fiber.
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