Easy Thanksgiving Dish: Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of the year—a day filled with love, laughter, and the delicious smells of home-cooked meals. But as a busy mom, I know how overwhelming it can be to prepare a feast for everyone. That’s why I always turn to a few trusty recipes that are easy to make, like my family’s favorite Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

This dish is pure comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of side that makes everyone at the table go back for seconds (and sometimes thirds!). Plus, it pairs beautifully with just about everything on the Thanksgiving table, from turkey to green beans.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Servings: 6

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Ingredients

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 large cloves of garlic, peeled
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer taste)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or your family’s favorite cheese)
• ½ teaspoon salt (add more to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, but pretty!)

Substitutions & Notes:

• You can use russet potatoes if that’s what you have—they’ll make the mash a little fluffier.
• For a dairy-free option, swap in plant-based butter and milk.
• Want to get a little fancy? Add a pinch of smoked paprika or some crispy bacon bits on top.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the Potatoes and Garlic

First, put your diced potatoes and garlic cloves in a big pot, cover them with water, and bring it all to a boil. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft enough to easily poke with a fork.

2. Mash It All Together

Drain the water and put the potatoes and garlic back in the pot. Grab a potato masher (or a fork if that’s what you have) and mash everything until it’s nice and smooth.

3. Add the Butter and Milk

Next, stir in the softened butter and warm milk. Mix it all up until the potatoes are creamy and fluffy.

4. Fold in the Cheese

Now comes the best part—cheese! Stir in the shredded cheddar, salt, and black pepper. The cheese will melt right into the potatoes, making them irresistibly gooey.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the mashed potatoes into a serving dish and sprinkle some fresh parsley on top if you like. Serve them warm and watch everyone dive in!

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Mom Tips & Variations

• Roasted Garlic Upgrade: If you have a little extra time, try roasting the garlic. It adds a sweet, nutty flavor that’s absolutely amazing.
• Creamier Potatoes: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese for an extra layer of richness.
• Cheese Choices: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses—Parmesan or Gruyère are fabulous options too.

Serving Suggestion: These mashed potatoes are perfect alongside turkey and gravy, but they’re just as delicious with a veggie main dish or even on their own as a comfort-food treat.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Dietary Labels: Gluten-Free

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Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Any leftovers (if you’re lucky to have some) can go in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm them up on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to bring back their creamy texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze these for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

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FAQ

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! As a busy mom, I always try to plan ahead. You can make these mashed potatoes a day or two before. When it’s time to reheat, just add a little milk or butter to refresh them.

2. What’s the best way to roast garlic for this recipe?

If you want to take the garlic flavor up a notch, cut the top off a garlic bulb, drizzle it with olive oil, wrap it in foil, and bake it at 400°F for about 30-40 minutes. Then, squeeze the roasted garlic out of the cloves and mash it right in.

3. Can I use different types of cheese?

Of course! My kids love cheddar, but you can try anything from mozzarella to pepper jack for a twist.

4. How can I make this healthier?

If you’re looking for a lighter version, try using skim milk and reducing the amount of butter and cheese. It’s still delicious!

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There you have it—an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as simple as it is satisfying. As a mom, I love seeing my family’s faces light up when they take their first bite of these cheesy mashed potatoes. It’s little moments like these that make Thanksgiving so special.

Wishing you a happy and stress-free holiday! 🍂 🧡