Introduction
If you’re looking for a creamy, flavorful potato dish that’s full of garlic and herbs, this recipe for garlic herb mashed potatoes is perfect. Utilizing an Instant Pot for cooking the potatoes speeds up the process while ensuring a fork-tender texture. The addition of garlic herb butter, along with cream cheese or sour cream, takes these mashed potatoes to a new level of deliciousness.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
5 pounds of potatoes, peeled and halved
4 teaspoons salt, divided
2 sticks butter (1 cup)
2–4 cloves garlic
A few sprigs of herbs (sage, thyme, etc.)
1 cup cream cheese or sour cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1/2 cup broth or milk (optional, for texture)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
12 minutes
Total Time
27 minutes
Yield
Serves 8-10
This creamy garlic herb mashed potato recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a comforting side dish for any meal. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Potatoes
Place the peeled and halved potatoes in the Instant Pot. Add enough water to cover them completely, approximately 6 cups. Add 2 teaspoons of salt. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to the steam setting for 12 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the steam. Drain the potatoes; they should be fork-tender.
Garlic Herb Butter
While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic cloves and herb sprigs. Let them cook gently, allowing the butter to absorb the flavors, for about 10–15 minutes. Remove the garlic and herbs, reserving the infused butter.
Mash and Mix
Return the drained potatoes to the Instant Pot. Using a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon, mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. Pour in the reserved garlic herb butter, add the cream cheese or sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese (if using), and the remaining 2 teaspoons of salt. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if necessary.
Notes
Consistency Adjustment
For a thinner consistency, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of broth or milk.
Potato Size
If using large potatoes, consider cutting them into quarters to ensure even cooking.
Mashing Tip
Mash the potatoes immediately after cooking to prevent lumps.
Cook techniques
Steaming Potatoes
Place the potatoes in the Instant Pot with water and salt, then steam to achieve a fork-tender texture, ensuring even cooking.
Infusing Butter
Melt butter with garlic and herbs over medium heat to create a flavorful herb-infused butter, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Mashing Potatoes
Use a potato masher or wooden spoon to mash the cooked potatoes to your desired consistency, allowing for a creamy texture.
Mixing Ingredients
Combine the mashed potatoes with garlic herb butter, cream cheese or sour cream, and Parmesan cheese to create a rich and flavorful mixture.
Adjusting Consistency
If a thinner potato mixture is desired, incorporate broth or milk gradually to achieve the preferred texture.
Preventing Lumps
Mash the potatoes immediately after cooking to ensure a smooth consistency and avoid any lumps.
Choosing Potatoes
Select the right size of potatoes and cut larger ones into quarters for more uniform cooking, preventing any hard pieces.
FAQ
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used, but adjust cooking times as they may cook faster than regular potatoes.
How can I store leftover mashed potatoes?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them before serving, adding a little liquid if they thicken.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Sour cream is a great alternative, or you can use plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Can I freeze mashed potatoes?
Yes, mashed potatoes freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container and use within 2-3 months for the best quality.
Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?
While fresh herbs provide better flavor, dried herbs can also be used as a substitute if fresh ones are not available.
Conclusion
The creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes are a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish that elevates any meal. The combination of garlic-infused butter, cream cheese or sour cream, and herbs creates a deliciously rich and comforting experience. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Potato Gratin
Layer sliced potatoes with cream cheese and herbs, bake until golden for a cheesy, satisfying dish.
Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweet and savory twist, adding a hint of maple syrup for extra flavor.
Herb Roasted Potatoes
Toss halved potatoes with garlic, herbs, and olive oil, then roast in the oven for a crispy texture.
Potato Soup
Combine mashed potatoes with broth and sautéed vegetables for a creamy potato soup, garnished with herbs and croutons.
Colcannon
Mix mashed potatoes with sautéed cabbage or kale and scallions for an Irish-inspired twist.
Potato Salad
Fold in sour cream, mustard, diced pickles, and herbs to create a creamy potato salad, perfect for picnics.
