Looking for a side dish that brings warmth and comfort? Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are your answer! These creamy, cheesy delights are easy to make and packed with flavor. You’ll learn how to blend Yukon Gold potatoes with garlic, rich cheeses, and butter for a dish that pleases everyone. Dive into this cozy recipe, and let’s transform your dinner table with a touch of cheesy goodness!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
– 4 cloves garlic
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
– ½ cup cream cheese
– ½ cup whole milk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
The key to cheesy garlic mashed potatoes is the Yukon Gold potatoes. They are creamy and buttery. I always peel and chop them before boiling. Garlic adds a rich flavor. I use four cloves, minced finely. For cheese lovers, sharp cheddar gives a nice kick. Cream cheese helps create a smooth texture. Whole milk thins the mixture out. Unsalted butter adds richness.
Seasoning and Garnish
– Salt and pepper
– 2 tablespoons fresh chives
To bring out the best flavors, I sprinkle in salt and pepper. Chives add a pop of color and fresh taste. They make the dish look great on the table.
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
– Cream alternatives (e.g., sour cream, Greek yogurt)
– Types of cheese to consider
If you want to switch things up, I recommend using sour cream or Greek yogurt. These will keep the dish creamy but change the taste a bit. You can also try other cheeses. Gouda or mozzarella work well for a different flavor.
For the full recipe, check out the link.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Potatoes
First, start with 2 lbs of Yukon Gold potatoes. Peel and chop them into even pieces. Rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Next, place the chopped potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low. Cook the potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes until they are fork-tender.
Cooking the Garlic
While the potatoes cook, take 4 cloves of minced garlic. In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the butter. Sauté the garlic for about 2 minutes until it smells great. Be careful not to let it brown, as this can make it bitter. Once ready, set the garlic aside to mix later.
Mashing and Mixing
After draining the cooked potatoes, return them to the pot. Pour the melted garlic butter over the potatoes. Next, add ½ cup of cream cheese and 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese. Pour in ½ cup of whole milk too. Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a potato masher or electric mixer to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. If the mix feels too thick, add more milk to reach the texture you like.
Final Touch and Serving
Once mashed, taste the potatoes and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Transfer the cheesy garlic mashed potatoes to a serving dish. For a lovely finish, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives on top. This adds a nice touch and enhances the flavor. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Creamy Texture
To make cheesy garlic mashed potatoes creamy, start with warm ingredients. Cold milk or butter can cool down the potatoes and make them gummy. Instead, warm the milk and butter together before adding them to the mix. When mashing, use a potato masher for a rustic feel, or an electric mixer for smoothness. Mix gently to avoid overworking the potatoes, which can make them gluey.
Flavor Enhancements
You can boost the taste of your mashed potatoes with herbs. Fresh rosemary or thyme adds a nice touch. Just chop them finely and mix in at the end. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding crispy bacon or roasted garlic. This creates a rich, savory taste that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
Time-Saving Techniques
Want to save time? Use a pressure cooker. It cooks potatoes quickly, cutting your prep time in half. You can also pre-cook the potatoes. Boil them in advance and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready, just reheat them and mash. This way, you can enjoy cheesy garlic mashed potatoes without the wait. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section.
Variations
Cheese Variations
You can change the cheese for fun flavors. Try gouda for a smoky taste. Mozzarella adds a stretchy, creamy texture. You can even mix cheeses! This makes your mashed potatoes unique. Each cheese brings its own style. Go wild with combinations to find your favorite.
Vegan or Dairy-Free Options
Want to keep it vegan? Use plant-based cream cheese. Swap regular milk for almond or oat milk. Nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor. It’s packed with nutrients too! These changes keep the taste great without dairy. You can enjoy cheesy garlic mashed potatoes in a new way.
Spicy and Unique Flavor Combinations
Feeling bold? Add jalapeños for heat. They give an extra kick. Hot sauce can also spice things up. Experiment with spices like paprika for a smoky note. These flavors can make your dish exciting. Don’t be afraid to try new things! The world of flavors is at your fingertips.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers, place the mashed potatoes in an airtight container. Make sure to cool them first. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. If you notice any change in smell or appearance, it’s best to toss them.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze cheesy garlic mashed potatoes, scoop them into a freezer-safe bag. Flatten the bag to save space. They can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, move them to the fridge overnight to thaw.
Reheating Techniques
You can reheat mashed potatoes on the stovetop or in the microwave. For stovetop, add a little milk and heat on low. Stir often to keep them smooth. In the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Always add a splash of milk to keep them creamy and moist. This helps prevent dryness and makes them taste fresh.
FAQs
How do I make cheesy garlic mashed potatoes from scratch?
To make cheesy garlic mashed potatoes from scratch, start with Yukon Gold potatoes. Peel and chop them into even pieces. Boil them until fork-tender. While they cook, melt butter in a pan and sauté minced garlic until it smells great. Once the potatoes are done, drain them and return them to the pot. Add the garlic butter, cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and milk. Mash everything together until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm. You can find the full recipe [here](#).
Can I make cheesy garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make cheesy garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time. Prepare them as usual, then cool them before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat them on the stove or in the microwave. Add a little milk to bring back the creamy texture.
What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?
Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choice for cheesy garlic mashed potatoes. They have a creamy texture and a rich flavor. Other good options include Russet potatoes, but they can be a bit drier. Yukon Golds give you the perfect creaminess without needing too much butter or cream.
How to fix watery mashed potatoes?
If your mashed potatoes turn out watery, don’t worry! You can fix them. Start by placing them back in a pot over low heat. Cook them gently to evaporate some moisture. Stir them frequently to prevent sticking. If they still seem wet, mash in a little instant potato flakes. This will absorb extra liquid and help thicken them up.
Can I add other flavors to cheesy garlic mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! You can add other flavors for fun twists. Try mixing in roasted garlic for a deeper taste. Fresh herbs like chives or thyme add a nice touch. For a bit of heat, diced jalapeños work well. You can even stir in crispy bacon bits for extra crunch and flavor. Get creative and enjoy your mashed potatoes!
Cheesy garlic mashed potatoes are simple and delicious! We covered important ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and creative variations. You can easily adapt this dish with different cheeses or make it vegan. Remember to store your leftovers properly so they stay tasty. With my tips, you can achieve a creamy texture and bold flavors. Try these mashed potatoes at your next meal for a satisfying side. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and making it your own!
![- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes - 4 cloves garlic - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese - ½ cup cream cheese - ½ cup whole milk - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter The key to cheesy garlic mashed potatoes is the Yukon Gold potatoes. They are creamy and buttery. I always peel and chop them before boiling. Garlic adds a rich flavor. I use four cloves, minced finely. For cheese lovers, sharp cheddar gives a nice kick. Cream cheese helps create a smooth texture. Whole milk thins the mixture out. Unsalted butter adds richness. - Salt and pepper - 2 tablespoons fresh chives To bring out the best flavors, I sprinkle in salt and pepper. Chives add a pop of color and fresh taste. They make the dish look great on the table. - Cream alternatives (e.g., sour cream, Greek yogurt) - Types of cheese to consider If you want to switch things up, I recommend using sour cream or Greek yogurt. These will keep the dish creamy but change the taste a bit. You can also try other cheeses. Gouda or mozzarella work well for a different flavor. For the full recipe, check out the link. First, start with 2 lbs of Yukon Gold potatoes. Peel and chop them into even pieces. Rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Next, place the chopped potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low. Cook the potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes until they are fork-tender. While the potatoes cook, take 4 cloves of minced garlic. In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the butter. Sauté the garlic for about 2 minutes until it smells great. Be careful not to let it brown, as this can make it bitter. Once ready, set the garlic aside to mix later. After draining the cooked potatoes, return them to the pot. Pour the melted garlic butter over the potatoes. Next, add ½ cup of cream cheese and 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese. Pour in ½ cup of whole milk too. Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a potato masher or electric mixer to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. If the mix feels too thick, add more milk to reach the texture you like. Once mashed, taste the potatoes and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Transfer the cheesy garlic mashed potatoes to a serving dish. For a lovely finish, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives on top. This adds a nice touch and enhances the flavor. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To make cheesy garlic mashed potatoes creamy, start with warm ingredients. Cold milk or butter can cool down the potatoes and make them gummy. Instead, warm the milk and butter together before adding them to the mix. When mashing, use a potato masher for a rustic feel, or an electric mixer for smoothness. Mix gently to avoid overworking the potatoes, which can make them gluey. You can boost the taste of your mashed potatoes with herbs. Fresh rosemary or thyme adds a nice touch. Just chop them finely and mix in at the end. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding crispy bacon or roasted garlic. This creates a rich, savory taste that pairs perfectly with the cheese. Want to save time? Use a pressure cooker. It cooks potatoes quickly, cutting your prep time in half. You can also pre-cook the potatoes. Boil them in advance and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready, just reheat them and mash. This way, you can enjoy cheesy garlic mashed potatoes without the wait. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. {{image_2}} You can change the cheese for fun flavors. Try gouda for a smoky taste. Mozzarella adds a stretchy, creamy texture. You can even mix cheeses! This makes your mashed potatoes unique. Each cheese brings its own style. Go wild with combinations to find your favorite. Want to keep it vegan? Use plant-based cream cheese. Swap regular milk for almond or oat milk. Nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor. It’s packed with nutrients too! These changes keep the taste great without dairy. You can enjoy cheesy garlic mashed potatoes in a new way. Feeling bold? Add jalapeños for heat. They give an extra kick. Hot sauce can also spice things up. Experiment with spices like paprika for a smoky note. These flavors can make your dish exciting. Don't be afraid to try new things! The world of flavors is at your fingertips. To store leftovers, place the mashed potatoes in an airtight container. Make sure to cool them first. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. If you notice any change in smell or appearance, it's best to toss them. If you want to freeze cheesy garlic mashed potatoes, scoop them into a freezer-safe bag. Flatten the bag to save space. They can be frozen for up to two months. When you're ready to eat, move them to the fridge overnight to thaw. You can reheat mashed potatoes on the stovetop or in the microwave. For stovetop, add a little milk and heat on low. Stir often to keep them smooth. In the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Always add a splash of milk to keep them creamy and moist. This helps prevent dryness and makes them taste fresh. To make cheesy garlic mashed potatoes from scratch, start with Yukon Gold potatoes. Peel and chop them into even pieces. Boil them until fork-tender. While they cook, melt butter in a pan and sauté minced garlic until it smells great. Once the potatoes are done, drain them and return them to the pot. Add the garlic butter, cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and milk. Mash everything together until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm. You can find the full recipe [here](#). Yes, you can make cheesy garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time. Prepare them as usual, then cool them before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat them on the stove or in the microwave. Add a little milk to bring back the creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choice for cheesy garlic mashed potatoes. They have a creamy texture and a rich flavor. Other good options include Russet potatoes, but they can be a bit drier. Yukon Golds give you the perfect creaminess without needing too much butter or cream. If your mashed potatoes turn out watery, don't worry! You can fix them. Start by placing them back in a pot over low heat. Cook them gently to evaporate some moisture. Stir them frequently to prevent sticking. If they still seem wet, mash in a little instant potato flakes. This will absorb extra liquid and help thicken them up. Absolutely! You can add other flavors for fun twists. Try mixing in roasted garlic for a deeper taste. Fresh herbs like chives or thyme add a nice touch. For a bit of heat, diced jalapeños work well. You can even stir in crispy bacon bits for extra crunch and flavor. Get creative and enjoy your mashed potatoes! Cheesy garlic mashed potatoes are simple and delicious! We covered important ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and creative variations. You can easily adapt this dish with different cheeses or make it vegan. Remember to store your leftovers properly so they stay tasty. With my tips, you can achieve a creamy texture and bold flavors. Try these mashed potatoes at your next meal for a satisfying side. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and making it your own!](https://recipespursuit.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/987d505d-1024-43d6-9f3b-7ed910bc57c6-250x250.webp)