Garlicky Mashed Potatoes

 

Attention potato lovers! Prepare to have your minds blown. Okay, okay, maybe not blown but certainly satiated. I limit my Thanksgiving table to two styles of potatoes, but if I were to have the energy I would also add twice-baked potatoes to my menu—a cousin of mine has to have them. Fortunately, Garlicky Mashed Potatoes bring plenty of smiles. And, yes, that’s a lot of melted butter. I took this photo in 2014, and the only difference between then and now is the fact that I add fresh herbs and *very* finely ground parmesan cheese on top for more flavor.

 
 
Mashed Potatoes
 
 

Elements

8 MEDIUM RUSSET POTATOES, PEELED AND CUBED

1 CUP SALTED BUTTER (2 STICKS)

3-4 TEASPOONS MINCED GARLIC, DIVIDED

4 TABLESPOONS CRÈME FRAÎCHE

1 CUP HEAVY CREAM

2 TEASPOONS SEA SALT

2 TEASPOONS BLACK PEPPER

1 SPRIG FRESH THYME

1 SPRIG FRESH CHIVES, CHOPPED

1/2 CUP VERY FINELY GROUND PARMESAN CHEESE

Directions

  1. In a large pot, add cubed potatoes and cover with cold water. 

  2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

  3. While the potatoes are cooking, in a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, 2 tablespoons minced garlic, and fresh thyme sprig. 

  4. Simmer over low heat for 5-10 minutes to infuse the flavors, then remove the saucepan from the heat and discard the thyme sprig.

  5. In a small skillet, melt 1/2 cup of the butter (1 stick) over medium heat. 

  6. Add the remaining minced garlic (1-2 teaspoons), cooking until golden and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes; remove from heat and set aside.

  7. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. 

  8. Working in batches, pass the potatoes through a potato ricer into a large mixing bowl.

  9. Add the remaining 1/2 cup butter, crème fraîche, salt, pepper, and the infused cream mixture. 

  10. Fold in the garlic butter mixture and very finely ground parmesan cheese. 

  11. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper, if desired. for extra garlic flavor, sprinkle a small amount of roasted garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon) into the mixture.

  12. Garnish with chopped fresh chives and serve warm.

 
 

x, Melissa

 
HolidayMelissa ChildressPotatoes, Mashed, GarlicComment