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There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of garlic mashed potatoes. It’s not just food it’s a taste of home. You remember those family dinners where creamy potatoes were always at the center of the table, filling the room with that unmistakable aroma of butter and garlic. This recipe brings back those cozy memories, but with an upgrade smooth, velvety potatoes infused with the bold flavor of garlic and a hint of tangy sour cream. If you’re looking for the perfect side dish for holidays, weeknight dinners, or Sunday roasts, these garlic mashed potatoes will instantly become your go-to recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Rich and creamy thanks to butter, milk, and sour cream
- Full-bodied garlic flavor from both fresh minced garlic and garlic powder
- Versatile cooking methods including stovetop and Instant Pot options
- Failsafe for holiday gatherings pairs wonderfully with turkey, steak, chicken, or even vegetarian dishes
No matter the occasion, these potatoes make everything more comforting.
PrintHomemade Garlic Mashed Potatoes in 30 Minutes
Creamy and garlicky mashed potatoes with butter, sour cream, and a perfect fluffy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling / Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 pounds red potatoes – peeled if desired
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces sour cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1–2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1–2 teaspoons salt
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper
Instructions
1. Wash and cut potatoes into quarters.
2. Place in a large pot, cover with water 1 inch above potatoes. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce to medium-high and cook for 10–12 minutes until tender. Drain.
4. OR Use Instant Pot: Place rack and 1 cup of water, cook at Pressure Cook for 8 minutes, quick release.
5. Transfer drained potatoes to a large bowl.
6. Add butter, milk, sour cream, garlic, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
7. Mash with potato masher or hand mixer until blended (do not overmix).
8. Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve warm.
Notes
Do not overmix—this prevents gummy potatoes.
Warm your milk before adding.
Make ahead by keeping in a slow cooker on low.
Red or Yukon Gold potatoes work best.
Ingredients for Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Here’s what you need to whip up this irresistible side dish.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Red potatoes | 3 pounds | Peel if desired; rustic style if left on |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons | Adds rich creaminess |
| Sour cream | 8 ounces | Provides tang and creaminess |
| Whole milk | ½ cup | Adjust for consistency |
| Minced garlic | 1 tablespoon | Fresh garlic for bold flavor |
| Garlic powder | 1–2 teaspoons | For extra depth |
| Salt | 1–2 teaspoons | Adjust to taste |
| Cracked black pepper | ¼ teaspoon (or ⅛ tsp ground pepper) | Balances richness |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Stovetop Method
- Wash and cut potatoes into quarters.
- Place in a large pot, cover with water about 1 inch above potatoes.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high.
- Cook 10–12 minutes or until fork-tender.
- Drain water completely and transfer potatoes to a large bowl.
Instant Pot Method
- Insert the metal rack inside the pressure cooker.
- Add 1 cup of water. Place potatoes on the rack.
- Seal the lid, set valve to SEAL, and cook on Pressure Cook (Manual) for 8 minutes.
- Quick-release the pressure. Once valve drops, open lid.
- Drain, then move potatoes to a large bowl.
Mashing and Mixing
- Add hot potatoes with butter, sour cream, milk, garlic, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mash with a potato masher for rustic texture, or use a hand mixer (don’t overmix, or potatoes may turn gluey).
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Tips for the Best Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Don’t overmix: Stop as soon as everything is blended to keep potatoes fluffy.
- Warm your milk: Cold milk cools the potatoes too quickly and makes them stiff.
- Use fresh garlic: It builds a beautiful depth of flavor when combined with garlic powder.
- Make ahead for holidays: Prepare potatoes earlier in the day and reheat them in a slow cooker on low, stirring occasionally.
Serving Ideas
Garlic mashed potatoes are timeless and flexible. Pair them with:
- Roasted turkey or chicken
- Grilled steak or pork chops
- Vegetarian mains like stuffed mushrooms or roasted root vegetables
- Holiday classics such as green bean casserole and cranberry relish
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Can I freeze garlic mashed potatoes?
Yes, cool completely, store in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat with a splash of milk.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
Substitute butter with vegan butter, sour cream with cashew cream, and milk with almond or oat milk.
What potatoes work best?
Red potatoes give a creamy yet slightly chunky finish. Yukon Gold is also a fantastic option for a buttery flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure you use a bigger pot or upgrade to the Instant Pot for convenience.
Conclusion
These garlic mashed potatoes are comfort food in its purest form creamy, garlicky, and deeply satisfying. By combining fresh garlic with buttery richness and sour cream tang, you’re creating more than just a side dish. You’re creating a memory, a centerpiece that ties together family gatherings and festive meals. The next time you want to elevate dinner, make these potatoes and watch how quickly they disappear from the table.