Garlic Smashed Potatoes

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why make this recipe

Garlic smashed potatoes are a delightful comfort food that everyone loves. They are creamy, garlicky, and have a perfect buttery flavor. This dish is great as a side for any meal, whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion. The best part is that you can prepare it in a simple and easy way. Not only do these potatoes taste fantastic, but they also add a beautiful and rustic touch to your dining table. Garlic smashed potatoes are very versatile, complementing a range of main dishes, and they are simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.

how to make Garlic Smashed Potatoes

Making garlic smashed potatoes is quite simple. You just need to follow a few steps and gather your ingredients. The process involves boiling, mixing, and smashing the potatoes to achieve a satisfying, rustic texture. Here’s how to do it step by step.

Ingredients:

2 pounds potatoes
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Boil the potatoes in a large pot until tender.
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly and cutting them into chunks. Place them in a large pot and fill it with water, covering the potatoes entirely. Bring the water to a boil over high heat and then reduce it to a simmer. Let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Drain and return to the pot.
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain the water carefully. Return the drained potatoes to the same pot. This allows residual heat to help dry out any excess moisture that might remain.
Add minced garlic, milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
To the potatoes in the pot, add the minced garlic, milk, and butter. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. The garlic will give a wonderful aroma and flavor, making the potatoes even more delicious.
Smash the potatoes with a potato masher until combined but still chunky.
Now, it’s time to smash the potatoes! Use a potato masher to mash the mixture until it’s well combined. You want to keep some chunks for texture, so don’t overdo it. The goal is to have a balance between smooth and chunky.
Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Once the potatoes are mashed to your liking, transfer them to a serving dish. If you like, chop some fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the top as a garnish. This adds a nice touch of color and freshness to the dish.

how to serve Garlic Smashed Potatoes

Garlic smashed potatoes are incredibly versatile. You can serve them alongside various main dishes, such as grilled chicken, roasted beef, or baked fish. They pair well with savory sauces and gravies, making them a perfect side for a hearty meal. You can also enjoy them on their own, as their flavor stands strong. For a fancy touch, consider adding a drizzle of olive oil or some grated cheese on top before serving.

Additionally, these potatoes can be used in various ways. For a more casual dinner, you might serve them alongside some sautéed vegetables. If you’re hosting a gathering, garlic smashed potatoes make an excellent base for toppings like sautéed mushrooms or crispy bacon bits. You can even transform them into a dish on their own by adding in cheese, sour cream, or herbs.

how to store Garlic Smashed Potatoes

If you have leftovers, you can easily store your garlic smashed potatoes. Let them cool completely. Once cooled, transfer them into an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. Make sure to label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them in a microwave or on the stovetop. If they seem a bit dry after refrigeration, consider adding a splash of milk or a bit of butter while reheating. This will help bring back their creamy texture.

tips to make Garlic Smashed Potatoes

Choose the right potatoes.
For the best results, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold. They yield a creamier texture and hold up well when mashed.
Don’t skip the garlic!
The garlic is what makes this dish so flavorful. Feel free to adjust the amount according to your taste. If you love garlic, you might want to add a little more.
Make it creamy!
If you prefer creamier potatoes, you can substitute the milk with heavy cream or sour cream. This will give an even richer taste.
Add flavors.
Consider mixing in additional flavors like grated cheese, green onions, or even roasted garlic for an extra twist. These additions can elevate the dish and make it unique.
Serve hot.
Garlic smashed potatoes are best served hot. To keep them warm while you finish preparing other dishes, cover them with a lid or foil.

variation

While garlic smashed potatoes are delicious as they are, there are plenty of variations you can try. Each version brings something new to the table, keeping the dish exciting:

Cheesy Garlic Smashed Potatoes:
Add shredded cheese, like cheddar or parmesan, during the smashing process. The cheese will melt and add a wonderful richness to the dish.
Herb-infused Smashed Potatoes:
Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives as you mash the potatoes. This will add a fresh and fragrant note to the flavor.
Spicy Garlic Smashed Potatoes:
If you enjoy a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture. This will give your dish a nice heat.
Bacon Garlic Smashed Potatoes:
For meat lovers, add crispy bacon bits during the mashing step. This will provide a savory crunch that complements the potatoes beautifully.
Creamy Vegan Smashed Potatoes:
If you’re looking for a vegan option, use plant-based milk and vegan butter. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of potato for this recipe?
While you can technically use any type of potato, starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold are recommended because they create a creamier texture when mashed.

2. Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
It’s not necessary to peel the potatoes unless you prefer them without skins. Leaving the skins on can add extra flavor and nutrients.

3. Can I prepare garlic smashed potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can make garlic smashed potatoes ahead of time. Prepare them and store in the fridge. Just reheat them before serving, and consider adding a bit of milk or butter to keep them creamy.

4. How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat garlic smashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using the stovetop, add a splash of milk or a little butter to prevent them from drying out.

5. What can I serve with garlic smashed potatoes?
Garlic smashed potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes, including roasted meats, grilled fish, or hearty vegetable dishes. They’re also great with sauces and gravies.

By following these simple steps and tips, you can create delicious garlic smashed potatoes that will be a hit at your table. Enjoy the process, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors until you find your perfect version!