← BlogJune 28, 2026

How to Make the Perfect Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

American · Easy · 45 min · 6 servings

vegetariangluten-free
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Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

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.

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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.

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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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