These cheesy garlic mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food! Creamy, fluffy, and packed with rich flavors, they make every meal better.
I can’t resist adding extra cheese on top! It melts perfectly and brings these potatoes to a whole new level. Who doesn’t love a bit of gooey goodness? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for mashing because they’re starchy and fluffy. If you don’t have russets, try Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a great punch of flavor. If you’re short on time, use garlic powder instead, but fresh is always best for that lovely aroma.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a robust flavor. You can swap it for Gruyère for a slightly nutty taste, or a mild cheese if you prefer less intensity.
Whole Milk or Cream: Using cream will make the potatoes super rich! If you’re looking for a lighter option, almond milk or skim milk works well too.
Sour Cream: This adds extra creaminess and tang. For a healthier twist, consider Greek yogurt as a substitute. It tastes great and adds protein!
How Do I Ensure My Mashed Potatoes Are Super Creamy?
Getting the right creaminess in mashed potatoes takes a bit of care. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Cook potatoes until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. This ensures they’re soft enough to mash easily.
- After draining, let them sit for a minute to steam dry. This helps avoid watery mashed potatoes.
- Use a potato masher for a rustic texture, or an electric mixer for super smooth potatoes. Just don’t over-mix, or they can become gummy!
- Incorporate warm milk or cream slowly. This keeps everything warm and creamy.
- Finally, add your cheese at the end so it melts into the hot potatoes beautifully.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or cream for richer texture)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes boiling the potatoes until they’re tender, then another 10-15 minutes to mash and mix everything together. Easy and quick for a delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Potatoes:
Start by placing the peeled and chunked potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Turn the heat to high and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let them simmer until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the potatoes are cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes, or until it’s fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it! Once done, take it off the heat and set aside.
3. Mash the Potatoes:
After the potatoes are tender, drain them well and return them to the pot or transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or an electric hand mixer until they’re mostly smooth.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Next, stir in the sautéed garlic with the butter, the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, milk (or cream), and sour cream if you’re using it. Mix everything until it’s creamy and well combined. If it seems too thick, you can add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency.
5. Add the Cheese and Seasoning:
Now, gently fold in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the last bit for the topping. Taste the potatoes and season with salt and black pepper according to your preference.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. If you like, sprinkle some dried thyme or Italian seasoning for extra flavor. For a melty twist, pop the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Final Touch:
Just before serving, garnish your cheesy garlic mashed potatoes with chopped fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy your warm, comforting cheesy garlic mashed potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! While russet potatoes are ideal for their starchiness, Yukon Golds are a great alternative for creamier mashed potatoes. Just keep in mind that other varieties may yield slightly different textures.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals, mixing in between to heat evenly.
Can I Customize the Cheese?
Definitely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even cream cheese for a different flavor. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to taste!
