Name: Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks); 6 cloves garlic (finely minced); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened, divided); 3/4 cup whole milk (warmed); 1 tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground, plus more to taste)

This garlic mashed potatoes recipe delivers creamy, comforting perfection with Yukon Gold potatoes and gently sautéed garlic. It comes together in just 35 minutes using simple, wholesome ingredients. You’ll love how these homemade mashed potatoes elevate any weeknight dinner or holiday feast.

I first perfected this garlic mashed potatoes recipe during my years hosting Thanksgiving dinners. The aroma of garlic sautéing in butter became as much a holiday tradition as the turkey itself. These creamy potatoes pair beautifully with my grandma’s classic stuffing and honey roasted carrots. They’ve since become my go-to comfort food for cozy Sunday suppers alongside homemade dinner rolls.

Why You’ll Love These Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Perfection: Yukon Gold potatoes create the silkiest texture without being gluey.
Garlic Forward: Gently sautéed garlic infuses every bite with mellow, aromatic flavor.
Quick Preparation: Ready in 35 minutes with minimal active cooking time.
Crowd Pleasing: Perfect for holidays and everyday family dinners alike.

Ingredients for Perfect Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.

Yukon Gold potatoes: Their thin skins and waxy texture create the creamiest mashed potatoes.
Fresh garlic cloves: Minced finely for even distribution and maximum flavor infusion.
Unsalted butter: Divided between sautéing the garlic and enriching the potatoes.
Whole milk: Warmed to prevent cooling the potatoes during mashing.
Kosher salt: Added to the cooking water and adjusted at the end for perfect seasoning.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds subtle warmth that complements the garlic beautifully.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy garlic mashed potatoes made with Yukon Gold potatoes, fresh garlic, and butter. Perfect side dish ready in 35 minutes with rich garlic flavor.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

knife
cutting board
large pot
measuring spoons
measuring cups
small saucepan
colander
potato masher

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
6 cloves garlic finely minced
1/2 cup unsalted butter softened, divided
3/4 cup whole milk warmed
1 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground, plus more to taste

Instructions

Peel the 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes and cut them into uniform 1 1/2-inch chunks. This ensures they cook evenly. Place the cut potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water by about 1 inch. Add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt to the water.
Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the potatoes are very tender when pierced easily with a fork, about 15 to 20 minutes. While the potatoes cook, proceed to the next step to prepare the garlic.
In a small saucepan or skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the softened unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Add the 6 cloves of finely minced garlic and cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to let it brown or burn. Remove from heat and set aside.
Once the potatoes are tender, carefully drain them very well in a colander. Return the hot, drained potatoes to the empty pot they were cooked in. Allow them to sit for a minute or two to steam off any residual moisture, which helps prevent watery mashed potatoes.
Add the remaining 6 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, the warmed 3/4 cup whole milk, and the sautéed garlic to the hot potatoes. Using a sturdy potato masher, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy, with no large lumps remaining. Alternatively, use a ricer for an even silkier texture.
Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Taste the mashed potatoes and add more kosher salt or black pepper as needed until the seasoning is just right. Serve immediately while hot as a perfect side dish.

Notes

Use a ricer for an even silkier texture. Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing.

Keyword comfort food, garlic, mashed potatoes

Creative Garlic Mashed Potato Variations

Cheesy Garlic Mash: Stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar after mashing.
Herb Infused: Add 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary or thyme with the garlic.
Roasted Garlic Version: Replace sautéed garlic with a whole head of roasted garlic.

Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Uniform Cutting: Cut potatoes into even 1½-inch chunks for consistent cooking.
Gentle Garlic Sauté: Cook garlic over medium-low heat to avoid bitter burning.
Thorough Draining: Let potatoes steam dry to prevent watery mashed potatoes.
Warm Additions: Use warmed milk and softened butter for smoother incorporation.

Storing and Reheating Your Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Store: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months, though texture may change slightly.
Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven covered for 20 minutes, or microwave stirring occasionally.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare up to 2 days ahead and reheat with a splash of milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them up to 2 days in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently with additional milk or butter to restore creaminess. They’re perfect for holiday meal planning alongside other easy Thanksgiving side dishes.

What potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because of their naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture when mashed. Russet potatoes can work but may yield a fluffier rather than creamy result. Avoid waxy potatoes like red bliss for mashed preparations.

How do you keep mashed potatoes from getting gummy?

Avoid overmashing, which releases too much starch. Use a potato masher rather than electric beaters, and mash just until smooth. Also, ensure your potatoes are thoroughly cooked before mashing and use warm liquid additions.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic provides superior flavor, you can substitute with ¾ teaspoon garlic powder. Add it directly to the potatoes with the other ingredients rather than sautéing. The flavor will be different but still delicious.

More Comforting Side Dishes to Try

Why These Garlic Mashed Potatoes Become Tradition

With their creamy texture and perfectly balanced garlic flavor, these mashed potatoes will become your new family favorite. They’re simple enough for weeknight dinners yet special enough for holiday feasts. I hope this recipe brings as much comfort to your table as it has to mine.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes