Print

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: Easy 20-Minute Side

creamy garlic parmesan mashed potatoes - featured image

These creamy garlic parmesan mashed potatoes are ready in 20 minutes with simple pantry ingredients. The garlic is gently simmered in butter and cream for a mellow, sweet flavor, and the parmesan adds a savory, nutty depth.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (about 6–7 medium)
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for the water, plus more to taste)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup heavy cream (plus more if needed)
  • 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (packed)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more for serving)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Wash and peel the Yukon Gold potatoes. Cut them into evenly sized chunks, about 1 to 1½ inches. Rinse the cut potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch.
  2. Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water by about an inch. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 12-15 minutes. Drain in a colander and let them sit for a minute or two to steam dry.
  3. While the potatoes are cooking, add the butter, heavy cream, and minced garlic to a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the garlic is fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes. Do not let the garlic brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. Return the drained potatoes to the warm pot (off the heat) and let them sit for another minute to steam off any remaining moisture. Mash with a potato masher until the larger chunks are broken down.
  5. Pour the warm garlic cream mixture over the mashed potatoes. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until the cream is mostly absorbed. Do not overmix.
  6. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and black pepper. Fold everything together gently until the cheese is melted and incorporated. Taste and adjust salt as needed. If the potatoes seem too thick, add a splash more warm cream or milk.
  7. Transfer to a serving bowl, top with a pat of butter if desired, and sprinkle with fresh chives or parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

Don’t overcook the garlic; it turns bitter. Warm the cream and butter before adding to the potatoes. Do not overmix to avoid gluey texture. Season in layers: salt the water, season the cream, and taste before serving. Let the potatoes steam dry after draining. For ultra-smooth potatoes, use a ricer.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potatoes, garlic parmesan, creamy mashed potatoes, easy side dish, 20-minute recipe, comfort food