Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Introduction
Garlic mashed potatoes are a creamy, flavorful twist on a classic comfort dish. With a blend of sour cream, butter, and garlic, this recipe delivers rich and savory mashed potatoes perfect for any meal.

Ingredients
- 3 pounds red potatoes (peeled if desired)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces sour cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1-2 teaspoons garlic powder (to taste)
- 1-2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper (or 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the potatoes using either the stovetop or Instant Pot method below.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the hot, drained potatoes with butter, milk, sour cream, minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 3: Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to gently mash the potatoes until the ingredients are just combined; keep some lumps for texture and avoid over-mixing.
- Step 4: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm and enjoy!
- Stovetop Method: Cut potatoes into quarters and place in a large pot. Cover with water about 1 inch above potatoes. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and boil for 10-12 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and transfer to a bowl.
- Instant Pot Method: Place a metal rack in the bottom of the Instant Pot and add 1 cup of water. Place potatoes on the rack, cover, and seal the vent. Pressure cook on manual for 8 minutes. Quick release pressure, drain potatoes, and transfer to a bowl.
Tips & Variations
- For extra creamy potatoes, warm the milk and sour cream before mixing.
- Try adding chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a fresh flavor boost.
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a naturally buttery texture.
- Adjust garlic amount to suit your preference or add roasted garlic for a milder taste.
Storage
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes work well. Yukon Golds create a creamy texture, while Russets are fluffier. Red potatoes are great for a sturdier, slightly chunkier mash.
How can I make these mashed potatoes dairy-free?
Substitute butter with a dairy-free margarine and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. You can also replace sour cream with a dairy-free alternative or plain coconut yogurt for a similar tang.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy and flavorful Garlic Mashed Potatoes made with tender red potatoes, butter, sour cream, milk, and a blend of garlic seasonings. This comforting side dish is perfectly fluffy with a slight hint of garlic, ideal for pairing with a variety of main courses. Easy to prepare using either stovetop or Instant Pot methods for convenience.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 3 pounds red potatoes (peeled if desired)
Dairy & Fats
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces sour cream
- ½ cup whole milk
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1–2 teaspoons garlic powder (to taste)
- 1–2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper (or 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper)
Instructions
- Cook the potatoes: Choose your preferred cooking method — either stovetop or Instant Pot. Prepare the potatoes accordingly until tender.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the hot, drained potatoes with butter, milk, sour cream, minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mash the potatoes: Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash the potatoes just until ingredients are combined. Keep some lumps for texture and avoid over-mixing for the best consistency.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the mashed potatoes and add additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Stovetop method for potatoes: Quarter the potatoes and place them in a large pot. Cover with water about 1 inch above potatoes. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and boil for 10-12 minutes until potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
- Instant Pot method for potatoes: Place a metal rack in the bottom of your pressure cooker and add 1 cup of water. Place potatoes on the rack. Cover and set vent to SEAL. Cook on PRESSURE COOK or MANUAL for 8 minutes. Quick release the pressure by turning knob to VENT. Once the valve drops, remove lid, drain water, and transfer potatoes to a bowl.
Notes
- Peeling potatoes is optional; leaving skins on adds texture and nutrients.
- Use a hand mixer for creamier potatoes, but avoid over-mixing to prevent gluey texture.
- Adjust garlic powder and salt according to your taste preference.
- Using red potatoes gives a slightly waxy texture which holds shape well in mashed dishes.
- Whole milk can be substituted with cream or other milk types for different richness levels.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Instant Pot, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Garlic Mashed Potatoes, mashed potatoes, garlic side dish, creamy potatoes, Instant Pot mashed potatoes, stovetop mashed potatoes, comfort food, easy side dish

