Traditional Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Name: Traditional Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 20 min

🍽 Serves: 4

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These Traditional Garlic Mashed Potatoes are your go-to for comfort and warmth. They're simple, yet packed with flavor, making them an ideal side dish for any occasion. Let's get mashing!

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Ingredients for Traditional Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Russet potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their starchy nature, giving you that fluffy texture we all crave. Garlic infuses the dish with a savory depth, elevating it from basic to brilliant. Whole milk adds creaminess, while unsalted butter provides richness without overpowering the other flavors. Finally, salt and pepper are your best friends for seasoning to perfection.

Tips & Tricks

Use cold water to start boiling your potatoes; this helps them cook evenly.
Warm the milk before adding it to avoid cooling down the potatoes.
If you're short on time, you can leave the skins on for a rustic texture.
A potato ricer can give you extra smooth potatoes if that's your preference.

Serving Suggestions

These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with roasted chicken, beef stew, or grilled fish. For a vegetarian option, serve them alongside sautéed mushrooms or a hearty vegetable stew. They're also fantastic with a drizzle of gravy or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of potato?: Yes, Yukon Golds are also a great choice for a creamier texture.
Can I make this recipe vegan?: Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use almond milk or another non-dairy milk instead of whole milk.
How do I store leftovers?: Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Traditional Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe Walkthrough

Start by peeling and cubing 2 pounds of russet potatoes. This makes for even cooking, and you won’t end up with any surprise chunks. Toss those potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water to help season the potatoes right from the start.

Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. You'll want to cook the potatoes until they're tender, which usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes. You can test this by poking a potato cube with a fork; if it slides in easily, you’re good to go.

Once the potatoes are tender, drain them thoroughly and return them to the pot. This step is crucial as it allows any excess moisture to evaporate, keeping your mash from getting watery.

In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk and minced garlic over low heat. Warming the milk helps it blend seamlessly with the potatoes, while the garlic infuses the milk with its aromatic goodness.

Add the warm milk and garlic to the drained potatoes along with the butter. Grab a potato masher or an electric mixer and mash the potatoes until they’re smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix; you want them fluffy, not gluey.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a final mix to ensure all ingredients are well combined, and serve them warm. Enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Easy to make with just a few ingredients.
Rich, creamy texture with a hint of garlic.
Perfectly complements a variety of main dishes.
Quick cooking time — ready in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup whole milk

1/4 cup unsalted butter

Salt to taste

Pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.

2. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes.

3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

4. In a small saucepan, heat the milk and minced garlic over low heat until warm.

5. Add the warm milk and garlic to the potatoes, along with the butter.

6. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or electric mixer until smooth and creamy.