Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude, gathering, and of course—great food. Among all the staples that make this holiday special, mashed potatoes reign supreme. Rich, creamy, and soul-soothing, they are the essential comfort food that completes the Thanksgiving plate. But not just any mashed potatoes—Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes with Garlic and Chive Butter bring elevated flavor, luxurious texture, and unforgettable aroma to your festive table.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything about crafting the perfect mashed potatoes—from choosing the right spuds to adding that flavorful garlic and chive butter finish. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or preparing a cozy dinner for two, this recipe will help you shine.
Why These Mashed Potatoes Are a Holiday Must-Have
- Unmatched Creaminess: The perfect blend of butter, cream, and sour cream creates a velvety consistency.
- Burst of Flavor: Roasted garlic and fresh chives deliver a gourmet twist.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, these potatoes complement any holiday spread.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Preparable 1-2 days ahead to save time on Thanksgiving day.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable for dairy-free, vegan, or low-carb diets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for extra richness)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Garlic and Chive Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or roasted for a milder flavor)
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
- Peel and cube potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.
- Place in a large pot and cover with cold water.
- Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain and let sit uncovered for 2–3 minutes to release steam.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic and Chive Butter
- In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1–2 minutes). Avoid browning.
- Stir in chopped chives and remove from heat.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
- Using a potato masher or ricer, mash potatoes until smooth.
- Stir in melted butter, heavy cream, sour cream, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently until creamy. Avoid over-mixing to prevent gluey texture.
Step 4: Fold in the Garlic and Chive Butter
- Pour the prepared garlic and chive butter over the mashed potatoes.
- Gently fold until evenly distributed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Transfer to a warm serving bowl.
- Garnish with extra butter and a sprinkle of fresh chives.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Expert Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes
- Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the fluffiest texture.
- Boil in salted water to infuse flavor from the inside.
- Avoid overworking the potatoes to prevent a gummy texture.
- Use warm dairy when mixing—cold ingredients reduce creaminess.
- A ricer or food mill gives the smoothest results.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Make-Ahead:
- Prepare up to 2 days in advance.
- Reheat in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F with a splash of cream.
Storing:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
- Microwave: In 30-second intervals, stirring each time.
- Stovetop: Over low heat with added butter or milk.
- Oven: Covered at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Make It Dairy-Free:
- Use plant-based butter and unsweetened almond milk.
Make It Vegan:
- Swap in vegan sour cream or coconut cream.
Add More Flavor:
- Stir in roasted garlic or caramelized onions.
- Top with Parmesan cheese for richness.
- Add a dash of white pepper for warmth.
Make It Healthier:
- Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- Mix in half mashed cauliflower for a lighter version.
What to Serve With Mashed Potatoes
- Roast Turkey with gravy
- Classic Herb Stuffing
- Green Bean Casserole
- Cranberry Sauce
- Honey Glazed Carrots
- Buttered Corn on the Cob
Drink Pairings:
- Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
- Sparkling Apple Cider
- Cranberry Punch
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 17g
- Carbs: 28g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
(Values are approximate and based on 6 servings)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I freeze mashed potatoes?
Yes. Store in an airtight container. Thaw overnight and reheat with cream and butter.
Q2. Why are my mashed potatoes gluey?
Over-mixing releases too much starch. Use a ricer and mix gently.
Q3. What herbs go well with mashed potatoes?
Chives, parsley, rosemary, and thyme add great flavor.
Q4. Can I keep mashed potatoes warm for a crowd?
Yes. Use a slow cooker on the “Warm” setting or place over a double boiler.
Q5. How do I make mashed potatoes without a masher?
Use a fork for rustic mash or a ricer for smooth results.
Final Thoughts
When Thanksgiving rolls around, there are a few dishes you just can’t skip—and mashed potatoes top that list. With this garlic and chive-infused recipe, you’ll bring unmatched flavor, silky texture, and heartwarming comfort to your holiday table.
