Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a creamy, savory side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of roasted garlic, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese makes this dish irresistible! Here’s a simple recipe to create this cheesy, garlicky delight:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (about 4-5 medium) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 6 cloves for a stronger garlic flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra stretch)
- ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- ¼ cup milk (more if needed for desired consistency)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
1. Cook the potatoes:
- Place the peeled and chopped potatoes into a large pot. Add enough cold water to cover the potatoes and add a pinch of salt.
- Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it starts boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
2. Cook the garlic:
- While the potatoes are cooking, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic). Set aside.
3. Mash the potatoes:
- Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot or a large bowl.
- Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency (chunky or smooth).
4. Add the creamy ingredients:
- Add the melted butter, sour cream (or cream cheese), and milk to the mashed potatoes. Stir well to combine.
- Mix in the sautéed garlic and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cheese:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined. If you like extra cheesy mashed potatoes, feel free to add more cheese at this point.
- You can also add a little extra milk if you want a creamier texture.
6. Serve:
- Transfer the cheesy garlic mashed potatoes to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips:
- Garlic flavor: If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic beforehand. Roasted garlic adds a sweet, mellow taste to the mashed potatoes.
- Cheese variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or Gruyère, for different flavor profiles.
- Make ahead: These mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little extra milk if needed to loosen them up.
These Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are sure to be a hit at any dinner table! Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor—what’s not to love?
