Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes Gravy

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes and Gravy are the ultimate comfort food side. The blend of creamy potatoes, mellow garlic, nutty Parmesan, and homemade gravy can turn any meal into a celebration. Perfect for family Sunday dinners or when you need a dish that feels like home, this recipe always brings people together around the table.

I first made these for a family dinner and right after everyone finished the last spoonful my husband insisted I never lose this recipe because it was the best mashed potatoes he ever had.

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes: essential for that fluffy yet creamy texture Try to pick ones that feel heavy and have no blemishes
• Salted butter: adds richness and flavor Always use high quality real butter for the best taste
• Milk: helps lighten the texture Choose whole milk if you can for extra creaminess
• Sour cream: gives tang and makes the potatoes extra smooth
• Grated Parmesan cheese: brings a nutty depth Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly
• Garlic powder: provides all that lovely garlic flavor without overpowering Always check your garlic powder is fresh for boldness
• Salt and black pepper: round out and enhance all the flavors Use Kosher salt for even seasoning

For the Gravy

• Salted butter: starts the gravy with a smooth rich flavor
• All-purpose flour: thickens the gravy Use a plain white flour for best results
• Water and milk: create just the right consistency Make sure your milk is fresh for a clean taste
• Chicken bouillon cubes: pack in savory notes Crush well so they dissolve fully
• Pepper: adds a touch of gentle heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Potatoes:

Peel and cut potatoes into evenly sized cubes for even cooking Place in a large pot and cover with cold salted water

Boil to Tender:

Bring to a gentle boil and cook about fifteen to twenty minutes Test with a fork which should slide in easily

Mash to Creaminess:

Drain the potatoes fully and return them to the still-warm pot Using a masher or hand-mixer blend until no lumps remain The warmth helps evaporate extra steam

Add Dairy and Flavor:

Stir in butter milk sour cream Parmesan garlic powder salt and black pepper Mix very thoroughly so everything is smooth and well incorporated Taste and adjust seasoning

Make the Gravy Roux:

In a medium saucepan melt butter over medium heat Sprinkle in flour and whisk for about one minute until it smells toasty and looks golden

Build the Gravy:

Gradually whisk in water and milk then add crushed bouillon cubes and pepper Keep stirring as it bubbles so there are no lumps

Finish the Gravy:

Turn heat to low and simmer while stirring until the gravy thickens to your liking If it gets too thick add a splash of milk

Serve:

Spoon creamy potatoes into bowls with a generous ladle of hot gravy on top

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Hands down my favorite ingredient here is the Parmesan cheese It takes the potatoes from good to dreamy in just a handful I remember my grandmother leaning in the doorway taking that first bite and declaring these better than the restaurants That was the best review I could ever want

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge up to three days For best reheating gently warm on the stovetop with an extra splash of milk to restore creaminess For freezing portion out mashed potatoes only in freezer safe bags Thaw overnight and warm before serving Add a little milk for texture

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have russet potatoes Yukon golds also make incredibly creamy mashed potatoes For a vegetarian gravy swap vegetable bouillon for chicken For lactose free use plant based butter and sour cream You can even stir in roasted garlic instead of garlic powder for an extra boost

Serving Suggestions

These mashed potatoes sit perfectly next to pot roast roast chicken or turkey For a cozy weeknight serve with oven baked meatloaf or a vegetable bake Use any leftover gravy to pour over hot open faced sandwiches or steamed vegetables

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The History of Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

Creamy mashed potatoes have been a table classic for centuries with recipes passed down through generations Adding cheese and garlic is now popular but draws from old world traditions of enriching potatoes with local dairy Gravy is a staple for Sunday dinners connecting families and creating long lasting food memories

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Which type of potatoes yield the creamiest texture?

Russet, yellow, or Yukon gold potatoes work best for creamy, smooth mashed potatoes.

→ Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?

Peeling gives a silky finish, but keeping some skins adds texture and rustic appeal—choose what you prefer.

→ How can I make the gravy richer?

Swap chicken bouillon for beef for a deeper flavor, or add a splash of cream for extra decadence.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, simply reheat gently and add a splash of milk or extra butter to restore creaminess as needed.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

These potatoes pair beautifully with pot roast, roasted chicken, meatloaf, or even as a stand-alone comfort food.

→ Can I use fresh garlic instead of powder?

Absolutely! Sauté minced fresh garlic in butter before mixing in for a more robust flavor.