This garlic mashed potatoes recipe is a must-have side dish for your Thanksgiving and holiday celebrations. Or to eat on a Tuesday because they are comforting and indisputably delicious. They can be cooked in advance and reheated too, so you can cut down on meal prep time and save stress in the process. Irish by heritage and a Midwest girl (the region where carbohydrates reign supreme), I know a thing or two when it comes to potatoes. I have several recipes for this humble root veggie:

For a naturally sweeter touch that’s still rich and creamy, try Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes and classic Mashed Sweet Potatoes.To get away from the stove and keep ‘em hot until serving, Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are your friend.For you Instant Pot fans (it’s ok to hug a kitchen appliance, right?), check out Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes.

How to Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes

These garlic mashed potatoes are a traditional cooktop method, lightened up with reasonable amounts of butter and 1% milk instead of heavy cream. They are ethereally fluffy and creamy, perfectly flavorful with butter and herbs, and not at all greasy or lumpy like some you may have been served in the past.

The Ingredients

Potatoes.  Russet potatoes yield that fluffy, cloud-like texture, but you can also swap in half or all Yukon gold potatoes variety. Yukon gold will result in denser, but more buttery-flavored mashed potatoes, while russet will give you a fluffier result. Plus they are a source of fiber, minerals, and vitamins!

Garlic. Use real-deal garlic cloves. I know peeling is a pain, and you don’t want your date smelling your garlic fingers, but it is vital to the dish for the proper garlic flavor (these are GARLIC mashed potatoes after all!).

Milk. I called for 1%, but you can use any percentage. Do not use soy or almond milk because their flavor will throw off the recipe. Milk will make for creamy mashed potatoes (and is a good source of calcium!).

Sour Cream. Gives the mashed potatoes even more creaminess and a delightful, subtle tang.

Butter. 3 tablespoons will do the trick to make them decadent but not set your tummy over the edge.Fresh Herbs. To bring color and life to the dish, since potatoes on their own are mild. Thyme, parsley, or chives would be good choices. Again, go fresh; it’s worth it.

The Directions

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes can be made in advance! 

To Store. Refrigerate in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days before serving.To Reheat. Over stove is best, with splashes of milk as needed to keep them from drying out.Not freezer-friendly. I do not recommend freezing mashed potatoes and this could negatively impact texture, making them mealy.

What to Pair With Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are that comforting, classic side that can be served with a variety of dishes.

Impress guests with some dreamy Braised Short Ribs served with your garlic mashed potatoes.As an ode to grandma, used leftover mashed potatoes to whip up a Shepherds Pie.And of course, Thanksgiving turkey has to be served with its BFF mashed potatoes, and even more sides like Cornbread Stuffing, Healthy Sweet Potato Casserole, and Cranberry Orange Sauce.

Potato Peeler. If you prefer your potatoes peeled.Hand Mixer. My trick to mash potatoes easily.Garlic Press. Since you’ll be skipping the jarred garlic forever, invest in a mincer to save on chopping.

Leave a rating below in the comments and let me know how you liked the recipe.

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