Garlic Ranch Mashed Potatoes Recipe | Creamy Flavorful Side Dish
Make these garlic ranch mashed potatoes for a delicious twist on a classic. Creamy, fluffy, and seasoned with roasted garlic and ranch, this easy recipe is the perfect side dish for holidays, family dinners, or weeknight meals.
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling potatoes)
- Colander for draining
- Potato masher or ricer
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredients
- 2 ½ lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic (roasted or sautéed)
- ½ cup ranch dressing or 2 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup heavy cream (or milk)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep: Peel and chop potatoes into even chunks.
- Boil: Place in a large pot, cover with salted water, and boil until fork-tender (15–20 minutes).
- Drain: Drain thoroughly and return potatoes to the pot to steam off excess moisture.
- Mash: Mash hot potatoes with butter, warm cream, roasted garlic, and ranch dressing/seasoning.
- Season: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with chives or parsley.
- Pro Tip: Don’t overmix—gentle mashing keeps potatoes fluffy and prevents them from becoming gluey.
Notes
- Potatoes: Russets yield fluffy mash; Yukon Golds give creamier texture.
- Garlic: Roast garlic for a mellow, sweet flavor; sauté for sharper notes.
- Substitutions: Greek yogurt or sour cream for tang; plant-based milk and vegan butter for dairy-free.
- Make-ahead: Prepare up to 24 hours in advance; reheat gently with extra cream.
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days; freeze portions up to 1 month.
- Serving ideas: Pair with roast chicken, steak, or turkey; garnish with crispy bacon for indulgence.