If you are craving that perfectly creamy and flavorful side dish that steals the show at any dinner table, this Steakhouse-Style Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines velvety potatoes with the rich warm notes of garlic, butter, and cream to create a mash that is indulgent yet comforting. Whether you’re serving it alongside a juicy steak or bringing it to a family gathering, this recipe is effortlessly impressive and guaranteed to become your new go-to for elevated mashed potatoes.

Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential—each contributes to the luscious texture, depth of flavor, and that classic steakhouse appeal. Slight variations, like choosing Yukon gold or russet potatoes, let you customize the creaminess and color to your liking.
- 2 1/2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes: Peeled and cut into chunks, these starchy potatoes ensure a fluffy mash with just the right body.
- 6 cloves garlic: Peeled whole to cook alongside the potatoes, this infuses a gentle, aromatic garlic flavor without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and silkiness that makes every bite addictive.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream: Warmed before mixing in to keep the potatoes smooth and creamy.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Introduces a subtle tang that brightens the overall flavor and adds extra creaminess.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt: Essential for seasoning, with room to adjust to your personal taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle peppery kick to balance the richness.
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional): For a fresh, vibrant garnish that adds color and a hint of herbal brightness.
How to Make Steakhouse-Style Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Boil Potatoes and Garlic
Start by placing your peeled and chunked potatoes and whole garlic cloves into a large pot, then cover them with cold water. Adding a generous pinch of salt to the water seasons the potatoes from the inside out. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and soft enough to mash easily.
Step 2: Drain and Dry
Drain your potatoes and garlic well, then return them to the hot pot off the heat. Letting them sit for two to three minutes helps any excess moisture evaporate, which is key for achieving a fluffy mashed potato without becoming watery.
Step 3: Mash with Butter
Add in the unsalted butter while the potatoes are still warm. Begin mashing until the mixture looks mostly smooth. The butter melts beautifully into the warm potatoes, lending a creamy base that is essential for that rich steakhouse feel.
Step 4: Mix in Cream and Sour Cream
Slowly pour the warmed heavy cream into the pot as you continue mashing, followed by the sour cream. This gradual mixing ensures a fluffy and lightly whipped texture. The sour cream adds a subtle tang that balances the richness perfectly.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Finish off by seasoning with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust as preferred—remember, the seasoning is what brings out the garlic and buttery notes fully.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer your heavenly mash to a serving bowl, then sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs if you have them on hand. These little touches brighten both the presentation and the flavor experience.
How to Serve Steakhouse-Style Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or parsley adds a pop of green color, a fresh herbal note, and a touch of elegance to this creamy dish. For a little extra indulgence, a drizzle of browned butter or a few shavings of Parmesan on top can also elevate your presentation.
Side Dishes
This mashed potatoes recipe pairs beautifully with hearty steaks, roasted chicken, or even grilled vegetables. Its creamy consistency allows it to soak up rich gravies and sauces, making it a classic companion for any protein or robust entrée.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, consider piping the mash using a large star tip to create beautiful swirls in your serving dish. You can even add roasted garlic on top for guests to spread in each bite. Another fun idea is to turn your mashed potatoes into individual gratins by topping with cheese and broiling until golden.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your mashed potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making leftovers perfect for quick reheats.
Freezing
If you want to keep some for longer, this Steakhouse-Style Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or milk, stirring frequently until warm and creamy again. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals to maintain the perfect consistency without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use any type of potato for this recipe?
While you can experiment, russet and Yukon gold potatoes are the best choices for creamy mashed potatoes. Russets give a fluffy texture, while Yukon golds offer a naturally buttery flavor and smoothness.
Is it necessary to cook the garlic whole with the potatoes?
Cooking the garlic cloves whole with the potatoes softens their sharpness and infuses a mellow garlic flavor throughout the mash without dominating, giving a balanced aroma and taste.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
Sure! Substitute the butter with plant-based margarine and use coconut cream or oat cream in place of heavy cream and sour cream. The flavor will be different but still delicious.
How do I get extra fluffy mashed potatoes?
Using a potato ricer or food mill helps achieve ultra-smooth, fluffy potatoes. Also, be careful not to overmix, as it can make the potatoes gluey.
What’s the best way to add more garlic flavor?
Try roasting the garlic cloves before adding them to the pot. This enhances the garlic’s sweetness and gives your mashed potatoes a deeper, more complex flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Steakhouse-Style Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe truly brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen with its perfect blend of creamy textures and garlicky warmth. It’s simple enough to make any night of the week yet impressive enough for special occasions. I can’t recommend enough giving it a try—it might just become your favorite way to enjoy mashed potatoes from here on out!
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Steakhouse-Style Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
These Steakhouse-Style Garlic Mashed Potatoes are creamy, buttery, and packed with savory roasted garlic flavor. Perfect as a comforting side dish, they combine fluffy mashed potatoes with rich butter, sour cream, and heavy cream for a classic steakhouse experience right at home.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Garlic
- 2 1/2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 6 cloves garlic, peeled
Dairy
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup heavy cream, warmed
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Seasonings
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (optional)
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley
Instructions
- Boil Potatoes and Garlic: Place the peeled and chunked potatoes along with the peeled garlic cloves in a large pot, then cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain and Dry: Drain the potatoes and garlic thoroughly and return them to the hot pot. Let them sit for 2–3 minutes to allow any excess moisture to evaporate, ensuring fluffier mashed potatoes.
- Mash Potatoes with Butter: Add the unsalted butter to the pot and begin mashing the potatoes and garlic until mostly smooth, incorporating the butter evenly.
- Add Creams and Season: Gradually pour in the warmed heavy cream and the sour cream while continuing to mash, working until the mixture is creamy and fluffy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley, if desired. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For ultra-smooth potatoes, use a potato ricer instead of a masher.
- Roasting the garlic beforehand will give the potatoes a deeper, richer garlic flavor.
- Leftovers reheat well and can be used as a delicious topping for shepherd’s pie.

