Rich, fluffy, and velvety smooth, these Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish to elevate any meal. Whether you’re pairing them with a hearty roast or serving them alongside a holiday turkey, their luxurious texture and savory garlic infusion make them unforgettable.
The key to these dreamy mashed potatoes lies in the balance of butter, cream, and roasted garlic. They’re indulgent enough for a special occasion but simple enough to become a comfort food staple on your dinner table.
What Kind of Potatoes Are Best for Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes?
For the creamiest texture, go with Yukon Gold potatoes. Their natural buttery flavor and moderate starch content give you a mash that’s rich and smooth without being gluey. Russets also work well if you prefer a fluffier result.
Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 head garlic
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup heavy cream (warm)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warm)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

How To Make the Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35-40 minutes until soft and golden. Let it cool slightly, then squeeze out the roasted garlic.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
Step 3: Mash and Infuse
Return the drained potatoes to the pot or a large bowl. Add the roasted garlic, warm cream, milk, and butter. Mash until smooth using a potato masher or hand mixer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer to a serving bowl. Top with extra butter and chopped herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the silky goodness.
How to Serve and Store Your Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Serve these mashed potatoes as a luxurious side dish with roasted meats, grilled veggies, or saucy mains like meatloaf or pot roast. For presentation, swirl the top and add a pat of butter and fresh herbs.
To store, let them cool completely and place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These mashed potatoes reheat beautifully. Store them in the fridge and reheat with a bit of milk or cream.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with all milk or use half-and-half. It will still be delicious, though slightly less rich.
Can I use garlic powder instead of roasted garlic?
While garlic powder works in a pinch, roasted garlic gives a much deeper, sweeter flavor that’s worth the extra step.
Are these gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I freeze mashed potatoes?
Yes! Let them cool, portion into freezer bags, and freeze. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently, stirring in cream or butter.
Want More Potato Side Dish Ideas?
If you loved these Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes, you’ll want to try some of these next:
- Mexican Potatoes: A Flavorful Side Dish You’ll Love with smoky seasoning and crisp edges.
- Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes for a bold, savory twist.
- Funeral Potatoes creamy, cheesy, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe for a baked version with golden edges.
- Oven Roasted Root Vegetables when you’re craving something hearty and wholesome.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so it’s easy to find again when you need the perfect creamy mash.
Tried it? Tell me what you served it with! Did you go heavy on the garlic or keep it subtle? Leave a comment—I love seeing your variations.
And if you’re looking for more delicious ideas, follow me on Pinterest @NinaDishes for daily recipes and inspiration.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
These Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are rich, velvety, and infused with the sweet nuttiness of roasted garlic. A classic side dish that’s both comforting and elegant—perfect for holidays or simple family dinners.
Ingredients
3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1 head garlic
0.5 cup unsalted butter
0.75 cup heavy cream (warm)
0.5 cup whole milk (warm)
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35–40 minutes until soft. Let cool, then squeeze out the cloves.
2. In a large pot, cover the potatoes with cold water. Salt the water generously. Bring to a boil, then simmer until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well.
3. Return potatoes to the pot. Add roasted garlic, warm cream, milk, and butter. Mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer to a bowl, top with herbs and extra butter if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Use Yukon Gold potatoes for the creamiest result.
Warm your dairy ingredients before adding to the mash.
Roast garlic ahead to save time during prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop and Oven
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: mashed potatoes, garlic, creamy, holiday side, comfort food
