Recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes is the kind of dish that brings families together—warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a festive holiday table, this recipe delivers rich, silky mashed potatoes with a savory garlic twist and freshly grated Parmesan. Thanks to efficient kitchen tools, prep becomes fast, clean, and stress-free.

Why This Recipe Works

Mashed potatoes are simple, but great mashed potatoes come from technique and ingredients. Freshly grated cheese melts smoother, garlic infuses deeply, and choosing the right potatoes gives you the perfect fluffy texture. This recipe balances creaminess and savory depth—without being heavy.

When you freshly grate Parmesan, it blends beautifully into the warm potatoes. Using a rotary cheese grater (like Geedel’s 4-in-1 model) ensures fine, even shreds that melt instantly and taste better than pre-shredded cheese.

Ingredients You Need

• 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup warm milk or cream
• 1/2 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Optional: chopped chives for garnish

How to Make It

1. Cook the Potatoes

Peel and cut potatoes into chunks. Boil in salted water for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.

2. Infuse the Garlic

In a small pan, melt butter and gently sauté minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, not browned.

3. Mash and Combine

Mash warm potatoes. Add garlic butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.

4. Add Fresh Parmesan

Sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan (finely shredded using your rotary grater). Stir until it melts into a velvety finish.

5. Garnish & Serve

Top with extra cheese or chopped chives. Serve warm as a side for turkey, steak, or roasted veggies.

Expert Tips for Silky Mashed Potatoes

• Warm your milk—cold liquids stiffen potatoes.
• Use Yukon golds for creaminess; Russets for fluffiness.
• Mash gently to avoid gluey texture.
• Always grate cheese fresh for smooth melt and stronger flavor.

Kitchen Tool Highlight

A good grater makes all the difference. Fresh Parmesan has no anti-caking agents, melts faster, and tastes richer. Using a rotary grater saves time, protects your knuckles, and ensures uniform shreds perfect for mashed potatoes.

Curious how it works? Check out our Veggie Salad Bowl recipe to see how freshly grated ingredients can elevate even simple dishes.

Serving Ideas

• As a Thanksgiving side
• Under crispy chicken
• Paired with roasted mushrooms
• Topped with extra butter and herbs