The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m Marilyn, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned from growing up on the sunny island of Crete, it’s that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. I still remember the first time my grandmother handed me a wooden spoon and said, “Mash with love, not just strength.” That’s how I learned to make mashed potatoes smooth, rich, and always from the heart.
Today, I’m sharing one of my family favorites Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes, a creamy, buttery dish that combines the cozy taste of home with a hint of Mediterranean flair. In Greece, potatoes are a humble staple, but when you add garlic, real butter, and freshly grated Parmesan, magic happens.
These Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes are my go-to side for any dinner, especially when I want something that hugs the soul. Whether it’s a Sunday roast, Thanksgiving feast, or just a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe brings everyone to the table. And believe me, nothing beats the smell of roasted garlic mixing with melted butter it’s pure happiness!
When I was little, we didn’t measure much; we cooked with our hearts. But for you, I’ve perfected this recipe to make sure you can recreate that same silky texture and deep flavor every time. So, grab your potatoes and let’s bring that Greek warmth to your table one creamy spoonful at a time.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need 🧈🧄🧀
- 2 pounds (about 900 g) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled (roasted or fresh)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: A drizzle of olive oil for that Greek touch
Step-by-Step Instructions 🍴
1. Boil the potatoes
Place the peeled potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork about 15–20 minutes. Don’t overcook; you want them just right!
2. Prepare the garlic
For a deeper, sweeter flavor, roast your garlic. Wrap the cloves in foil with a drizzle of olive oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until soft. If you’re short on time, sauté minced garlic in butter until fragrant either way, you’ll get that wonderful aroma that defines these Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes.
3. Mash with love
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and roasted garlic while they’re still hot this helps everything melt together beautifully. Mash gently using a potato masher (or a hand mixer if you want them ultra-smooth).
4. Add milk and Parmesan
Pour in the warm milk and grated Parmesan, then stir until the mixture becomes velvety and creamy. Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Adjust the consistency more milk for smoother potatoes, more cheese for richness.
5. Garnish and serve
Spoon the mashed potatoes into a serving bowl, sprinkle with extra Parmesan and a bit of chopped parsley, and drizzle with olive oil if desired. Serve hot because that’s when they’re at their dreamiest!
Tips from Marilyn’s Kitchen 💡
- Choose your potatoes wisely: Yukon Golds give a buttery flavor, while Russets create a fluffier texture.
- Warm your milk: Cold milk can make mashed potatoes gummy always use warm milk or cream.
- Don’t overmix: Too much mashing can make potatoes gluey. Stop once you reach that smooth, creamy texture.
- Roasted garlic = flavor heaven: It adds a caramelized sweetness you just can’t get from raw garlic.
Serving Ideas 🍽️
These Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even baked salmon. For a full Greek-inspired dinner, serve them alongside lemon-herb chicken and a crisp cucumber salad.
They also make a great base for shepherd’s pie or can be transformed into cheesy potato cakes the next day. You’ll love how versatile this recipe is — it’s classic comfort food that never gets old.
Recipe Card 📝
| 🍴 Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes | |
|---|---|
| ⏰ Time: | 30 minutes |
| 🥔 Ingredients: | Potatoes, garlic, butter, Parmesan, milk, salt, pepper, parsley |
| 👩🍳 Instructions: | 1. Boil potatoes until tender. 2. Roast or sauté garlic. 3. Mash potatoes with butter and garlic. 4. Add warm milk and Parmesan, mix until creamy. 5. Season and garnish. |
| 💡 Note: | Use warm milk for smoother texture and roasted garlic for extra flavor. |
| 🧮 Nutrition (per serving): | Calories: 260 • Protein: 7g • Carbs: 28g • Fat: 13g |
Short 100-Word Version
Hi, I’m Marilyn from Crete! These Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes bring comfort and flavor to every table. Made with buttery Yukon Golds, roasted garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan, they’re creamy, rich, and irresistibly smooth. My grandmother taught me to “mash with love,” and that’s exactly what makes these potatoes special. Perfect for holidays or everyday dinners, they pair beautifully with chicken, steak, or fish. Warm, cheesy, and infused with a hint of Greek olive oil, this recipe is simple yet unforgettable — comfort food with heart and soul.
Conclusion ❤️
Cooking these Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes reminds me that the simplest dishes often carry the deepest warmth. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or a quiet dinner for two, they have a way of bringing people closer.
Food is love and every bite should tell a story. From my Crete kitchen to yours, I hope this recipe fills your home with laughter, delicious aromas, and memories that last. Don’t forget to share your version I’d love to see how you make these potatoes your own!