Introduction
Potatoes are one of those ingredients that can be prepared in endless ways, but when you add a rich, creamy garlic sauce, you elevate them to a whole new level. These creamy garlic sauce potatoes have become one of my go-to side dishes. The tender potatoes, coated in a velvety, garlicky sauce, are a perfect complement to any meal. It’s one of those dishes that makes you want to go back for seconds—maybe even thirds!
I first stumbled upon this recipe while trying to find a new way to jazz up my classic mashed potatoes. What I ended up with was even better: a creamy garlic sauce that coats each potato slice perfectly. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these potatoes fit the bill. They’re indulgent, comforting, and full of flavor without being overly complicated.
One of the best parts about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a hearty salad. The creamy garlic sauce adds depth to everything it touches, turning a simple potato dish into a showstopper.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile
These creamy garlic sauce potatoes can be paired with virtually anything—grilled chicken, steak, or even as a standalone vegetarian dish. They’re adaptable to various meals.
Budget-Friendly
Potatoes are inexpensive, and with just a handful of pantry staples (garlic, butter, cream, and seasonings), you can make a dish that feels fancy yet doesn’t break the bank.
Ingredients for the Recipe
-
4 medium potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
-
3 tablespoons butter
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
1/2 cup milk
-
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
-
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How to Make This Recipe
Making creamy garlic sauce potatoes is simple, and the end result is rich, comforting, and utterly delicious. You only need a few steps to bring this dish together, and you’ll be enjoying a creamy, garlicky side in no time. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the potatoes
Begin by peeling the potatoes (if you prefer) and then slicing them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. The uniform thickness ensures they cook evenly, giving you tender potatoes without any undercooked or overcooked pieces. Once sliced, rinse the potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch. This helps the potatoes cook better and prevents them from becoming mushy.
Step 2: Cook the potatoes
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the potato slices to the boiling water, along with a pinch of salt. Boil the potatoes for 8–10 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but not falling apart. The potatoes should be soft enough to pierce easily with a fork but still hold their shape. Drain the potatoes in a colander and set them aside.
Step 3: Prepare the creamy garlic sauce
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Once the garlic is fragrant, pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a simmer. The cream should begin to thicken, so keep an eye on it and stir occasionally. After a few minutes, add the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until smooth.
Step 4: Add the potatoes to the sauce
Once the garlic sauce has thickened slightly, gently add the boiled potatoes to the skillet. Stir carefully to coat each potato slice in the creamy garlic sauce. The sauce should coat the potatoes beautifully, creating a rich and indulgent coating. Cook the potatoes in the sauce for an additional 3–4 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors and become even more tender.
Step 5: Finish the sauce
Once the potatoes are well-coated and heated through, you can add a little extra flavor if desired. Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese for added richness and a hint of sharp flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, feel free to skip the cheese, as the sauce is already creamy and flavorful. For an extra pop of freshness, sprinkle the finished dish with freshly chopped parsley.
Step 6: Serve
Once everything is well combined and the potatoes are tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or garlic powder to your liking. Serve immediately while the potatoes are warm and the sauce is creamy. These potatoes make a perfect side dish for a hearty meal, or you can enjoy them on their own for a simple, satisfying treat.
Quick and Easy
This recipe doesn’t require hours of preparation. From start to finish, you can have these creamy garlic sauce potatoes on the table in just under 30 minutes. The process is straightforward, and you don’t need any special equipment or advanced cooking skills to make it. It’s the kind of recipe that fits easily into a busy day while still giving you something special.
Customizable
While this recipe is fantastic as written, it’s also highly customizable. You can add some sautéed onions, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a little bit of cooked bacon for a smoky flavor. If you want to make the sauce a bit richer, you can use half-and-half instead of milk. You can also swap out the potatoes for sweet potatoes for a twist on the traditional recipe.
Perfect for Guests
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to impress your family, these creamy garlic sauce potatoes are a perfect choice. The rich garlic sauce and tender potatoes are guaranteed to wow your guests. Pair them with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. They’re also a great dish to bring to a potluck or share with friends.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I make these creamy garlic sauce potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and sauce separately ahead of time. Cook the potatoes, make the creamy garlic sauce, and store them in separate containers in the fridge. When ready to serve, combine them in a skillet and heat them through. This makes the recipe perfect for meal prepping!
Can I use a different type of potato?
Absolutely! While Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this recipe, you can use any type of potato you prefer. Red potatoes or even sweet potatoes can be a great substitute for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, to make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute, and replace the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. You can also use a dairy-free Parmesan if desired.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to make this dish even more flavorful and nutritious. Simply sauté the vegetables in the skillet before adding the garlic sauce and potatoes.