Thanksgiving is that magical time of year when calories don’t count, pants are optional (thank you, stretchy waistbands), and the kitchen transforms into a battleground of culinary creativity. Imagine fluffy Thanksgiving garlic mashed potatoes, perfectly creamy and infused with aromatic garlic, sitting proudly on your dinner table, ready to steal the spotlight from even the most impressive turkey. delightful Thanksgiving dessert
These mashed potatoes are not just a side dish; they are the comforting hug we all need after a long day of holiday preparations. Each bite delivers a velvety texture and a rich flavor that dances on your taste buds, making them an essential part of any Thanksgiving feast. The anticipation builds as you serve them up, watching as family and friends dive in like they’ve found buried treasure.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Thanksgiving garlic mashed potatoes are incredibly easy to whip up, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish
- The bold garlic flavor complements any main dish beautifully while adding a delightful creaminess
- Their stunning white and golden hue makes them visually appealing on your holiday table
- Plus, they’re versatile enough for everyday meals or special occasions!
Every Thanksgiving, my Aunt Edna brings her famous garlic mashed potatoes. One year, she forgot the garlic—cue chaos at the family dinner! We laughed so hard it became a running joke; now we double-check the recipe every year. garlic parmesan chicken recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture that makes for perfect mashed potatoes.
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Fresh Garlic: Use whole cloves for roasting; they become sweet and mellow when cooked.
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Butter: Choose unsalted butter to control the saltiness and enhance creaminess.
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Heavy Cream: This adds richness and helps achieve that dreamy texture; milk can be used but won’t be as luxurious.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
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Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle adds color and freshness; plus, it looks fancy!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep the Potatoes: Begin by peeling the Yukon Gold potatoes under running water until they are nice and clean. Cut them into quarters for even cooking—no one likes unevenly cooked potatoes!
Roast the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap several garlic cloves in foil with olive oil drizzled over them. Roast for about 20-25 minutes until fragrant and golden brown.
Cook the Potatoes: Place cut potatoes in a large pot filled with cold salted water. Bring to a boil over medium heat and cook until fork-tender—about 15-20 minutes should do it.
Drain & Mash: Once cooked, drain your potatoes in a colander. Return them to the pot off heat and mash them vigorously with a potato masher or ricer until smooth and creamy.
Add Goodness & Serve!: Mix in roasted garlic (squeeze out those sweet cloves), butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until everything melds beautifully together. Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley for that extra pop!
This Thanksgiving garlic mashed potatoes recipe guarantees that your side dish will be nothing short of spectacular. perfect side dish for Thanksgiving Enjoy every creamy bite filled with warmth and laughter as you gather around with loved ones!
You Must Know
- Thanksgiving Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a creamy delight, and they can elevate your holiday dinner
- The aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen is simply irresistible
- With smooth texture and rich flavor, they’ll make everyone at the table swoon with joy
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling peeled potatoes until tender. While they cook, sauté garlic in butter for that mouthwatering flavor. Then mash potatoes and mix in the garlic for an even distribution.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap regular potatoes for Yukon Golds for extra creaminess or add cream cheese for richness. Experiment with fresh herbs like chives or rosemary to personalize your dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly creamy mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer instead of a masher
- Always salt your water when boiling potatoes to enhance flavor throughout
- Don’t overmix; it creates gluey textures that nobody wants at Thanksgiving!
Sometimes, I wonder if my family loves my Thanksgiving Garlic Mashed Potatoes more than me! Each year, they swoon, and I bask in their praise while secretly taking notes on how to make them even better. crispy potato wedges.
FAQ
Can I make Thanksgiving Garlic Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?
For more inspiration, check out this crispy German potato pancakes recipe.
Absolutely! Prepare them a day in advance and reheat before serving.
How do I prevent my mashed potatoes from being gluey?
Avoid overmixing after adding ingredients; this keeps them fluffy and light.
Can I use other types of garlic in this recipe?
Yes! Roasted garlic adds sweetness while raw garlic provides a sharper flavor profile.

Thanksgiving Garlic Mashed Potatoes
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- Author: Hellen
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of Thanksgiving Garlic Mashed Potatoes, a must-have side dish that elevates your holiday feast. These fluffy mashed potatoes are infused with roasted garlic, delivering a rich flavor and velvety texture that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, they promise warmth and comfort in every bite, making them the star of your Thanksgiving dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 6 cloves fresh garlic, roasted
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional), for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the quartered Yukon Gold potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- While the potatoes cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and wrap garlic cloves in foil with olive oil; roast for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot off heat.
- Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy using a potato masher or ricer.
- Squeeze in roasted garlic, add butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper; mix until well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg