These Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are creamy, dreamy, and full of flavor! The mix of melted cheese and roasted garlic makes them irresistible.
Whenever I make these, I feel like a cooking superstar. Plus, who can resist that gooey cheese? They’re perfect with any meal for a cozy night in! 🧀🥔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are great for mashing due to their high starch content. If you can’t find russets, Yukon Golds are a good substitute; they add a buttery flavor and creaminess.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice punch. If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can work too, but add less—about 1/2 teaspoon for every clove of fresh garlic to start.
Cheddar & Parmesan: Sharp cheddar is perfect for flavor. You can replace it with mild cheddar or even a vegan cheese for a dairy-free option. As for Parmesan, nutritional yeast is a great substitute for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a tangy twist and extra creaminess. For a lighter option, consider using plain yogurt instead.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add crunch on top! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, or even crushed crackers or chips for a unique twist.
How Do I Achieve the Creamiest Mashed Potatoes?
The key to super creamy mashed potatoes is in how you prepare and mix them. Here’s how to nail it:
- Use a potato masher, ricer, or food mill instead of an electric mixer. This prevents the potatoes from getting gummy.
- After cooking, drain the potatoes well. Return them to the pot to steam off excess moisture before mashing.
- Warm the milk and butter before adding them in. This helps keep everything creamy and makes mixing easier.
- Stir in your ingredients until just combined; over-mixing can turn them gummy.
These steps will help you get fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes every time.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 6 cloves garlic, peeled
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish)
Optional Topping:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Olive oil or melted butter for breadcrumb topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 15-20 minutes boiling and mashing the potatoes and another 15-20 minutes baking them for that perfect golden crust. The perfect dish for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boiling the Potatoes and Garlic:
Start by placing the peeled and chunked potatoes and the whole garlic cloves in a large pot. Cover them with cold water, ensuring the water is about an inch above the ingredients. Add a pinch of salt to taste. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
2. Draining the Potatoes:
Once cooked, drain the potatoes and garlic well. Return them to the pot or transfer them to a large mixing bowl, ready for mashing!
3. Mashing Time:
Add the unsalted butter to the drained potatoes and garlic. Using a potato masher, mash everything together until it’s mostly smooth. This is the perfect time to let your muscles do a little work!
4. Mixing in the Good Stuff:
Next, stir in the milk, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped chives, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and creamy and all the ingredients are well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the salt if needed.
5. Preheat the Oven:
While you mix your potatoes, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get it ready for baking.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the creamy mashed potatoes into a baking dish, spreading them out evenly. This will ensure even baking and that lovely golden top.
7. Add the Topping (Optional):
If you’re using panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping, toss them with a drizzle of melted butter or olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mashed potatoes for an extra crunch.
8. Bake the Dish:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make everyone hungry!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, let the dish sit for a couple of minutes. Garnish with extra chopped chives before serving. Enjoy these creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes with a delightful garlic kick and a satisfying golden crust on top!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can! While russet potatoes are ideal for creamy mashed potatoes, Yukon Gold potatoes work well too, offering a buttery flavor and creamy texture.
What if I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even skip the topping entirely for a softer dish. If you want some crunch, try baked crushed cornflakes!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes up to two days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and when ready to serve, reheat them in the oven, adding a bit of milk or butter to keep them creamy.
How Can I Adjust the Flavor?
Feel free to add more garlic for a stronger flavor, or incorporate other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a twist. You can also increase the cheese amounts for a richer taste!
