How to Make Buttery Garlic and Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: A Simple Guide
Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that pair well with almost any meal. But making them extra special with buttery goodness, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese turns this humble dish into something truly irresistible. If you’re looking for an easy recipe to wow your family or guests, you’re in the right place. Here’s how to create buttery garlic and Parmesan mashed potatoes in simple, easy-to-follow steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Before you start, gather your ingredients. For about 4–6 servings, you’ll need:
- 2 pounds of potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best)
- 4–6 cloves of garlic
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened or melted)
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Once you have everything ready, let’s get started!
Step 1: Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients
First, take your potatoes and wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt. Then, peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler. If you prefer a more rustic mash with added texture, you can leave the skins on — it’s entirely up to you.
Now, chop the potatoes into smaller pieces. Cutting them into even chunks (about 1–2 inches across) helps them cook faster and ensures even boiling.
For the garlic, peel the cloves and leave them whole. You’ll simmer these with the potatoes to infuse them with a mild, roasted garlic flavor.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes and Garlic
Place the chopped potatoes and whole garlic cloves into a large pot. Add enough cold water to cover the potatoes completely, then sprinkle a generous amount of salt into the water. Salt helps season the potatoes as they cook.
Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15–20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. To check, insert a fork into one of the potato pieces—if it slides in easily, your potatoes are ready.
Step 3: Drain and Mash
Carefully drain the boiled potatoes and garlic using a colander. Shake off any excess water, then return them to the pot. Let them sit for a minute or two to release steam—this helps the potatoes stay fluffy and avoids watery mashed potatoes.
Next, use a potato masher or a fork to mash the potatoes and garlic together. If you want an extra-smooth texture, you can use a hand mixer or food processor instead. Whatever method you choose, mash the potatoes until they’re smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add Butter, Cream, and Parmesan
Now comes the magic part! Add the softened or melted butter to the mashed potatoes. Butter is what gives them that rich, silky texture and buttery flavor we all love.
Pour in the heavy cream or milk, one splash at a time, mixing as you go. The cream adds a velvety consistency, while milk will make the mash lighter (use whichever you prefer). Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth.
Once the butter and cream are evenly incorporated, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Parmesan adds a slightly nutty and savory taste that takes mashed potatoes to the next level. Stir well—a little extra cheese never hurts!
Finally, season your mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch and adjust based on your preference.
Step 5: Make It Extra Special (Optional)
If you’re feeling fancy, you can add some extra touches to your mashed potatoes:
- Fresh parsley: Finely chop some parsley and sprinkle it over the mashed potatoes for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Extra Parmesan: Grate a bit more Parmesan over the top for extra cheesiness.
- Roasted garlic: If you love a stronger garlic flavor, consider roasting the garlic beforehand instead of boiling it with the potatoes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Spoon your buttery garlic and Parmesan mashed potatoes into a serving dish while they’re still warm. Spread them out evenly, and garnish with parsley or a small drizzle of melted butter for presentation.
These mashed potatoes are perfect as a side dish for roasted chicken, steak, or even a simple vegetable stir-fry. They’re comforting, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.
A Quick Recap:
- Wash and chop your potatoes, and peel garlic cloves.
- Boil the potatoes and garlic until fork-tender.
- Drain and mash the potatoes and garlic for the desired texture.
- Stir in butter, cream or milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Add optional garnishes like parsley or roasted garlic.
- Serve warm and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness!
Final Thoughts
Making buttery garlic and Parmesan mashed potatoes is easier than you might think. With just a few simple steps, you can elevate your regular mashed potatoes into a decadent, flavorful side dish. Whether it’s for a holiday dinner or a quiet weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
So go ahead, grab your favorite potatoes, and treat yourself to this delicious dish today. Once you’ve mastered the basics, feel free to experiment with your own twists and flavors. Enjoy!
