Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
These creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a comforting and indulgent side dish that's bound to steal the spotlight at any family gathering. The velvety texture comes from perfectly boiled Idaho russet potatoes, enriched with melted margarine, creamy sour cream, and a splash of milk. The addition of garlic elevates these mashed potatoes beyond the ordinary, providing a delightful depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with any main course. Whether you're serving it alongside a juicy roast or a simple grilled chicken, these mashed potatoes will create a memorable meal that everyone will be asking for long after the dinner plates are cleared.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Idaho russet potatoes
8-10 (medium, peeled and cut into chunks)
milk
1/4 cup (room temperature)
sour cream
2 tablespoons (room temperature)
blue bonnet margarine
1/2 cup (softened)
salt
to taste (for seasoning)
pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
parsley flakes
for garnish (dried)
garlic
2-3 cloves (minced or roasted (optional for added flavor))
Instructions
1
Begin by peeling and cutting the Idaho russet potatoes into evenly-sized chunks for uniform cooking. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them thoroughly and return them to the pot or transfer them to a mixing bowl.
3
While the potatoes are still hot, add the softened margarine, sour cream, and milk to the bowl. If using garlic, now is the time to incorporate the minced or roasted garlic for extra flavor.
4
Using an electric mixer, beat the potatoes on low speed until they reach your desired consistency. For chunkier mashed potatoes, mix less; for creamier, mix more.
5
The key to the perfect mashed potatoes is seasoning. Start by adding salt and pepper a little at a time, tasting as you go to ensure the flavors are just right. You may find you need anywhere from a teaspoon to several tablespoons of salt, depending on your preference.
6
For an added touch of richness, place a couple pats of margarine on top of the finished mashed potatoes and allow them to melt down into the warm potatoes.
7
Finally, sprinkle parsley flakes over the top for a pop of color and serve immediately. Enjoy these creamy garlic mashed potatoes as the star side dish at your next gathering!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes?
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a comforting and indulgent side dish made with Idaho russet potatoes, margarine, sour cream, and garlic for a rich flavor profile.
What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using 8-10 medium Idaho russet potatoes for the best velvety texture.
How should the potatoes be prepared before boiling?
You should peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly-sized chunks to ensure uniform cooking.
How long do the potatoes need to boil?
The potatoes should be boiled for about 15-20 minutes or until they are tender.
What is the first step after the potatoes are cooked?
Once cooked, drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot or transfer them to a mixing bowl while they are still hot.
Is garlic mandatory in this recipe?
No, adding 2-3 cloves of garlic is optional, though it is recommended for extra flavor depth.
What kind of garlic can I use?
You can use either minced garlic or roasted garlic depending on your preference.
What makes these mashed potatoes creamy?
The creaminess comes from the combination of Blue Bonnet margarine, sour cream, and milk.
What specific brand of margarine is suggested?
The recipe suggests using Blue Bonnet margarine.
How much milk is required?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of room temperature milk.
How much sour cream should I add?
Add 2 tablespoons of room temperature sour cream to the mixture.
Why should the milk and sour cream be at room temperature?
Using room temperature dairy helps maintain the heat of the potatoes and ensures a smoother blend.
How should I mix the potatoes?
Use an electric mixer on low speed to beat the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency.
How do I make the potatoes chunkier?
For chunkier mashed potatoes, simply mix them less with the electric mixer.
How do I achieve a creamier texture?
For a creamier texture, beat the potatoes longer with the electric mixer on low speed.
How much salt should I add?
Season with salt to taste; you may need anywhere from a teaspoon to several tablespoons depending on your preference.
When should I add the salt and pepper?
Add salt and pepper a little at a time after the potatoes are mashed, tasting as you go.
How do I add a final touch of richness?
Place a couple of pats of margarine on top of the finished potatoes and let them melt into the dish.
What garnish is used for this dish?
Sprinkle dried parsley flakes over the top for a pop of color before serving.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
Can these potatoes be served for holidays?
Yes, they are highly recommended for Thanksgiving and other holiday meals.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is categorized as a vegetarian side dish.
What main courses pair well with these potatoes?
They pair beautifully with a juicy roast, grilled chicken, or any favorite main course.
Why is it important to cut the potatoes into evenly-sized chunks?
Cutting them into even chunks ensures that all pieces cook at the same rate, avoiding raw or overcooked spots.
Can I use roasted garlic instead of raw minced garlic?
Yes, the recipe allows for either minced or roasted garlic to be incorporated during the mixing stage.
What is the heat setting for boiling the potatoes?
Bring the water to a boil first, then reduce the heat to a simmer to cook the potatoes until tender.
When should the margarine be added?
Add the softened margarine while the potatoes are still hot, right before mixing.
Is it okay to serve these potatoes cold?
The recipe recommends serving them immediately while they are warm for the best taste and texture.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients total: potatoes, milk, sour cream, margarine, salt, pepper, parsley, and garlic.
What category of food does this recipe fall into?
This is categorized as a potato dish and a side dish.