Recipe for cheesy garlic mashed potatoes with creamy, buttery, and flavorful with potatoes, garlic, cheese, butter and milk. Whether you love garlic parmesan mashed potatoes or loaded mash with bacon, this easy comfort food pairs beautifully with chicken, steak, or holiday meals.
Ingredient Table
Using Yukon Gold potatoes ensures creaminess, while cheddar garlic mashed potatoes add bold flavor. Parmesan can turn this into garlic parmesan mashed potatoes, while mozzarella makes it gooier.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes / Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet) | 2 lbs (around 6 medium) | Yukon Gold gives a creamy, buttery base, while Russet offers a lighter, fluffier mash |
| Garlic | 4–5 cloves | Roast for a mild, sweet flavor; can replace with 1 tsp garlic powder if short on fresh |
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tbsp | Add more or less to taste; salted butter works too—just lower the added salt |
| Milk or Heavy Cream | ½ cup | Warm before mixing in; half-and-half or plant-based milk also work well |
| Shredded Sharp Cheddar | 1 cup | Swap with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or parmesan for a cheesy twist |
| Grated Parmesan (optional) | ¼ cup | Gives a nutty, savory depth; use with cheddar for extra richness |
| Sour Cream or Cream Cheese | ¼ cup | Creates a tangy, velvety texture; optional ingredient |
| Salt | 1 tsp (or to taste) | Balances and enhances potato flavor |
| Black Pepper | ½ tsp | Freshly ground pepper adds the best kick |
| Fresh Herbs (parsley, chives) | 2 tbsp, chopped | Optional garnish that adds freshness and color |
| Bacon Bits or Green Onions (optional) | 2 tbsp | Perfect for a loaded mashed potatoes variation |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Potatoes
- Scrub 2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peel them, and chop into uniform pieces.
- Toss them into a big pot, cover with cold water, and sprinkle in 1 tsp salt.
- Boil, then lower to a simmer for 15–20 minutes until they’re soft when poked with a fork.
Drain and Let Dry
- Pour potatoes into a colander to drain all water.
- Put them back in the pot and let them sit, uncovered, for 1–2 minutes to release steam and avoid sogginess.
Add Garlic and Butter
- If you love garlic, squeeze roasted cloves into the warm potatoes.
- Drop in 4 tbsp unsalted butter; the potatoes’ heat will melt it, making them rich and creamy.
Mash It Up
- Grab a potato masher for a chunky texture or a ricer for silky smoothness.
- Mash while hot to keep them light and avoid stickiness.
Mix in Dairy
- Heat ½ cup milk or cream, then stir it in gently.
- For extra decadence, blend in ¼ cup sour cream or cream cheese.
Add Cheese and Extras
- Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar until it’s melty and gooey.
- Try ¼ cup parmesan for a garlicky twist or toss in bacon bits and green onions for a loaded vibe.
Season and Serve
- Taste and tweak with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for a fresh finish.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal | From cheddar, butter, and milk in creamy mashed potatoes. |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g | Supplied mainly by potatoes. |
| Protein | 7 g | From cheese, cream, and milk. |
| Fat | 16 g | Richness of butter and cheese. |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g | Higher in cheddar and parmesan. |
| Fiber | 2 g | From potato skins if included. |
| Sodium | 420 mg | Varies by cheese and added salt. |
| Calcium | 180 mg | Boosted by cheddar and parmesan. |
| Potassium | 610 mg | Naturally high in potatoes. |
Serving Ideas for Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Pair these creamy garlic mashed potatoes with hearty mains like roast chicken, grilled steak, baked salmon, meatloaf, or fried chicken for a comforting weeknight side dish.
- Elevate holiday feasts by serving alongside turkey, glazed ham, or roasted veggies, with the rich, cheesy flavor complementing festive dishes perfectly.
- Garnish with fresh chives, parsley, or extra cheddar for a vibrant, appetizing finish.
- For variations like garlic parmesan mashed potatoes or loaded mashed potatoes with bacon and green onions, present in a family-style bowl to create an inviting, shareable dish.
Storage & Reheating
| Method | Instructions | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Cool mashed potatoes completely, then store in an airtight container. They stay fresh for 3–4 days in the fridge. | Place in shallow containers for quicker cooling and even storage. |
| Freezing | Portion mashed potatoes into freezer bags or sealed containers. Freeze for up to 1 month. | Flatten bags to save space and allow quicker thawing before reheating. |
| Stovetop Reheating | Warm gently over low heat in a saucepan. Add a splash of milk or knob of butter. | Stir frequently to restore creaminess and prevent sticking at the bottom. |
| Oven Reheating | Place potatoes in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed. | Add a small amount of cream before heating for extra smoothness. |
| Microwave Reheating | Heat in short intervals, stirring between each round to distribute heat evenly. | Mix in milk or butter if texture feels dry; avoid overheating to prevent rubberiness. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which potatoes are best for creamy mashed potatoes?
A: Yukon Gold potatoes are the top choice because of their naturally buttery flavor and smooth texture. For a lighter, fluffier mash, Russet potatoes are a great option.
Q: Can I prepare cheesy garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can make them up to two days in advance. Store in the refrigerator, then reheat with a splash of milk, cream, or butter to bring back the creamy consistency.
Q: Is garlic powder a good substitute for fresh garlic?
A: Yes, garlic powder works in a pinch. However, roasted fresh garlic delivers a sweeter, richer flavor that takes the dish to the next level.
Q: Which cheese melts best in mashed potatoes?
A: Sharp cheddar is the classic choice. Parmesan gives a nutty depth, while mozzarella creates a gooey, stretchy texture.
Q: How do I keep mashed potatoes from drying out when reheating?
A: Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the oven. Add extra milk, cream, or butter to maintain softness and creaminess.
