Sides

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Name: Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3-4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes; 2-3 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes; 4-5 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth; 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp garlic powder

By Claire Donovan · June 18, 2026 · Sides

Prep20 min

Cook20 min

Total40 min

Serves4

There's something special about a warm, comforting bowl of garlic mashed potatoes that always hits the spot. As a home cook who's passionate about creating delicious, gluten-free meals, I'm excited to share my secrets for making the fluffiest, most flavorful garlic mashed potatoes you've ever tasted. Growing up, I remember my grandmother's famous mashed potatoes, which were always the star of the show at family gatherings. After being diagnosed with celiac disease, I had to get creative with my cooking to ensure that I could still enjoy my favorite dishes, including these beloved mashed potatoes.

What makes this recipe truly special is the attention to detail and the use of high-quality ingredients. By using the right type of potatoes, cooking them to the perfect doneness, and adding in a blend of savory spices and herbs, you'll be able to create a dish that's not only mouthwatering but also impressive. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their mashed potato game.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even a holiday feast. You can serve it alongside your favorite protein, such as roasted chicken or grilled steak, or use it as a side dish to complement your favorite vegetables. The possibilities are endless, and I'm excited to share this recipe with you so you can experience the joy of creating delicious, gluten-free meals in your own home kitchen.

So, what makes this recipe so special? For starters, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a dish that's sure to impress. The key is to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh garlic and real butter, and to cook the potatoes to the perfect doneness. By following these simple steps, you'll be able to create a dish that's not only delicious but also visually appealing.

In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes, which provide a nice balance of flavor and texture. We'll also be adding in some minced garlic, which adds a depth of flavor that's hard to resist. And, of course, no mashed potatoes would be complete without a pat of butter and a splash of milk. By using these simple ingredients and following the steps outlined in this recipe, you'll be able to create a dish that's sure to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
The combination of Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes provides a nice balance of flavor and texture.
The garlic adds a depth of flavor that's hard to resist, making this dish perfect for garlic lovers.
This recipe is gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
The dish is versatile and can be served alongside a variety of proteins and vegetables, making it perfect for any occasion.
The recipe is easy to scale up or down, making it perfect for large or small gatherings.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great garlic mashed potatoes is to use the right type of potatoes and to cook them to the perfect doneness. Russet potatoes, with their high starch content, yield a light and fluffy mash, while Yukon Golds add a buttery, yellow color and a slightly sweet flavor. By combining these two types of potatoes, you'll get a mash that's both flavorful and textured.

Another important factor is the cooking liquid. By using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water, you'll add a depth of flavor to the potatoes that's hard to resist. And, of course, the garlic is a crucial component, adding a pungent flavor that elevates the dish to new heights. By sautéing the garlic in butter before adding it to the potatoes, you'll create a rich, savory flavor that's sure to impress.

Finally, the key to making great mashed potatoes is to not overmix them. By using a gentle folding motion to combine the potatoes, butter, and milk, you'll create a mash that's smooth and creamy, without becoming gluey or unappetizing. This is especially important when working with gluten-free ingredients, as they can be more prone to becoming sticky or dense.

By following these simple tips and using the right ingredients, you'll be able to create a dish that's not only delicious but also visually appealing. The combination of fluffy potatoes, savory garlic, and rich butter will create a mash that's sure to become a new favorite. And, with the added benefit of being gluten-free, you can enjoy this dish without worrying about any dietary restrictions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making great garlic mashed potatoes, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. You'll want to use high-quality potatoes, fresh garlic, and real butter to get the best flavor. You'll also need some chicken or vegetable broth, milk, and salt and pepper to taste. By using these simple ingredients and following the steps outlined in this recipe, you'll be able to create a dish that's not only delicious but also visually appealing.

One of the most important things to consider when making garlic mashed potatoes is the type of potatoes you use. Russet potatoes are high in starch, which makes them light and fluffy, while Yukon Golds are buttery and sweet. By combining these two types of potatoes, you'll get a mash that's both flavorful and textured. You can find these types of potatoes at most grocery stores, and they're usually labeled as 'Russet' or 'Yukon Gold'.

3-4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubesRusset potatoes are high in starch, which makes them light and fluffy. You can find them at most grocery stores, and they're usually labeled as 'Russet'.
2-3 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubesYukon Gold potatoes are buttery and sweet, and they add a nice balance of flavor and texture to the dish. You can find them at most grocery stores, and they're usually labeled as 'Yukon Gold'.
4-5 cloves garlic, mincedFresh garlic is essential for this recipe, as it adds a depth of flavor that's hard to resist. You can mince the garlic using a garlic press or a chef's knife.
2 tbsp unsalted butterReal butter is essential for this recipe, as it adds a rich, savory flavor to the potatoes. You can use salted butter if you prefer, but unsalted butter is generally better for cooking.
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable brothChicken or vegetable broth adds a depth of flavor to the potatoes that's hard to resist. You can use low-sodium broth if you're watching your salt intake.
1/2 cup milk or heavy creamMilk or heavy cream adds a creamy texture to the potatoes that's essential for a good mash. You can use low-fat milk or a non-dairy milk alternative if you prefer.
Salt and pepper to tasteSalt and pepper are essential for bringing out the flavors in the potatoes. You can use any type of salt and pepper you prefer, but kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper are generally best for cooking.
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chivesFresh parsley or chives add a nice burst of freshness to the dish, and they're perfect for garnishing the potatoes. You can use any type of fresh herb you prefer, but parsley and chives are generally best for this recipe.
1 tsp dried thymeDried thyme adds a savory flavor to the potatoes that's essential for a good mash. You can use any type of dried herb you prefer, but thyme is generally best for this recipe.
1/2 tsp garlic powderGarlic powder adds a depth of flavor to the potatoes that's hard to resist. You can use any type of garlic powder you prefer, but make sure it's fresh and not expired.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large pot with a heavy bottomColander or strainerImmersion blender or potato masherWhisk or spoonMeasuring cups and spoonsCutting board and chef's knife

How to Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes

1
Fill a large pot with enough cold water to cover the potatoes, and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2
While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes, or until the garlic is soft and fragrant.
3
Drain the potatoes in a colander or strainer, and return them to the pot. Add the cooked garlic, chicken or vegetable broth, milk or heavy cream, salt, and pepper, and mash the potatoes with an immersion blender or potato masher until they're smooth and creamy.
4
Stir in the chopped parsley or chives, dried thyme, and garlic powder. Taste the potatoes and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5
Transfer the potatoes to a serving dish, and garnish with additional parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy!
6
If you want to make the potatoes ahead of time, you can cook and mash them, then refrigerate or freeze them until you're ready to serve. Simply reheat the potatoes over low heat, stirring occasionally, until they're warm and creamy.
7
To add some extra flavor to the potatoes, you can try roasting some garlic before mincing it. Simply slice the top off a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until the garlic is soft and caramelized.
8
You can also try adding some grated cheese to the potatoes, such as cheddar or Parmesan. Simply stir the cheese in after mashing the potatoes, and adjust the seasoning as needed.
9
If you're looking for a lighter version of the recipe, you can try using less butter or substituting it with a lower-fat alternative. You can also try using low-fat milk or a non-dairy milk alternative.
10
To make the potatoes more flavorful, you can try adding some diced herbs or spices to the pot while they're cooking. Some options include diced rosemary, thyme, or bay leaves, or a pinch of paprika or cumin.
11
Finally, you can try serving the potatoes with a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, chives, or diced bacon. Simply spoon the potatoes into a serving dish, and top with your desired toppings.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality potatoes that are high in starch, such as Russet or Idaho potatoes.
Don't overcook the potatoes, as they can become mushy and unappetizing.
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, and cook it until it's soft and fragrant.
Add the garlic to the potatoes while they're still warm, so the flavors can meld together.
Use a gentle folding motion to combine the potatoes, butter, and milk, so the potatoes don't become gluey or unappetizing.
Taste the potatoes as you go, and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to find the combination that you like best.
Consider using a flavored broth, such as chicken or beef broth, to add extra depth to the potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the potatoes, which can make them mushy and unappetizing.
Not using enough liquid, which can make the potatoes dry and crumbly.
Not mashing the potatoes enough, which can leave them lumpy and unappetizing.
Adding too much butter or milk, which can make the potatoes greasy or soggy.
Not seasoning the potatoes enough, which can make them bland and unappetizing.
Not using fresh garlic, which can make the potatoes lack flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Try adding some grated cheese to the potatoes, such as cheddar or Parmesan.
Add some diced herbs or spices to the pot while the potatoes are cooking, such as rosemary or thyme.
Use a flavored broth, such as chicken or beef broth, to add extra depth to the potatoes.
Add some diced bacon or pancetta to the potatoes for a smoky flavor.
Try using different types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, for a unique flavor and texture.
Add some roasted garlic to the potatoes for an extra depth of flavor.
Try using a non-dairy milk alternative, such as almond or soy milk, for a creamy and dairy-free version of the recipe.

What to Serve With Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garnish the potatoes with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, and serve alongside your favorite main dish. Some options include roasted chicken, grilled steak, or pan-seared salmon. You can also try serving the potatoes with a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, diced bacon, or grated cheese.

The potatoes are also a great side dish for a variety of vegetables, such as roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed spinach. Simply spoon the potatoes into a serving dish, and top with your desired toppings. You can also try serving the potatoes with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Roasted chickenGrilled steakPan-seared salmonRoasted Brussels sproutsSautéed spinachGarlic breadGreen salad

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The potatoes can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen until you're ready to serve. Simply reheat the potatoes over low heat, stirring occasionally, until they're warm and creamy.

To refrigerate the potatoes, let them cool to room temperature, then cover them with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To freeze the potatoes, let them cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

To reheat the potatoes, simply place them in a saucepan over low heat, and stir occasionally until they're warm and creamy. You can also try reheating the potatoes in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat them, as they can become dry and unappetizing.

When reheating the potatoes, you can also try adding some extra butter or milk to give them a creamy and rich texture. Simply stir in the butter or milk, and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?

Russet or Idaho potatoes are best for mashed potatoes, as they are high in starch and yield a light and fluffy mash.

Can I use low-fat milk or a non-dairy milk alternative?

Yes, you can use low-fat milk or a non-dairy milk alternative, such as almond or soy milk, for a creamy and dairy-free version of the recipe.

How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming gluey or unappetizing?

To prevent the potatoes from becoming gluey or unappetizing, use a gentle folding motion to combine the potatoes, butter, and milk, and don't overmix the potatoes.

Can I make the potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them until you're ready to serve. Simply reheat the potatoes over low heat, stirring occasionally, until they're warm and creamy.

What are some variations I can try?

Some variations you can try include adding grated cheese, diced herbs or spices, or roasted garlic to the potatoes. You can also try using different types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, for a unique flavor and texture.

How do I reheat the potatoes without drying them out?

To reheat the potatoes without drying them out, simply place them in a saucepan over low heat, and stir occasionally until they're warm and creamy. You can also try adding some extra butter or milk to give them a creamy and rich texture.

Can I use a flavored broth to add extra depth to the potatoes?

Yes, you can use a flavored broth, such as chicken or beef broth, to add extra depth to the potatoes. Simply substitute the broth for some of the milk or cream, and adjust the seasoning as needed.

How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming too salty?

To prevent the potatoes from becoming too salty, use a light hand when seasoning the potatoes, and taste them as you go. You can always add more salt, but it's harder to remove excess salt from the potatoes.

The Full Recipe

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