There’s something magical about the combination of tender potatoes bathed in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. This irresistible dish transforms humble potatoes into a restaurant-quality side that pairs beautifully with everything from grilled chicken to roasted vegetables.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to elevate your weeknight meal, these creamy garlic sauce potatoes deliver comfort and sophistication in every bite.
The secret lies in creating a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to each potato, infusing them with aromatic garlic and herbs. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy indulgence and fresh, vibrant flavors that will have your family asking for seconds.
Recipe Information
- Serves: 4-6 people
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Course: Side Dish
- Cuisine: European-inspired
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Garlic press (optional)
- Serving dish
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Ingredients
For the Potatoes:
- 2 lbs (900g) baby potatoes or small red potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. If using baby potatoes, cut them in half to ensure even cooking.
For larger potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks. Pat dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned potatoes, cut side down, and cook for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and fork-tender. Flip occasionally to ensure even browning. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Base
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. The garlic should be golden and aromatic.
Step 4: Create the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the garlic butter and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a light roux. This will help thicken your sauce and prevent lumps.
Step 5: Add the Liquids
Gradually whisk in the milk, followed by the heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form.
Continue whisking and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Step 6: Season and Finish
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, thyme, rosemary, salt, and white pepper. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce coats the back of a spoon. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the cooked potatoes in the skillet. Gently toss to coat all the potatoes evenly. Garnish with fresh parsley and chives before serving immediately while hot.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 6 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 42mg |
| Sodium | 520mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 9g |
| Vitamin C | 15mg |
| Calcium | 185mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Potatoes
Choose the Right Potatoes: Baby potatoes or small red potatoes work best as they hold their shape and have a creamy texture when cooked.
Don’t Rush the Garlic: Sauté the garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. Golden garlic equals maximum flavor.
Prevent Lumps: Always whisk the milk in gradually and keep stirring to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.
Fresh Herb Finish: Adding fresh herbs at the end brightens the entire dish and adds a pop of color.
Variations and Substitutions
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of regular milk and Parmesan cheese.
Herb Variations: Try fresh dill, oregano, or sage for different flavor profiles.
Cheese Alternatives: Gruyère, aged cheddar, or pecorino Romano can replace Parmesan for unique tastes.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter to 2 tablespoons.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover creamy garlic potatoes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce appears too thick. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to separate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is my sauce lumpy?
Lumps usually form when liquid is added too quickly to the roux. Always whisk gradually and continuously when adding milk and cream.
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Fresh potatoes work best for texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe contains all-purpose flour. For a gluten-free version, substitute with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend.
Perfect Pairings
These creamy garlic sauce potatoes complement grilled meats, roasted chicken, pan-seared fish, or can stand alone as a satisfying vegetarian main course with a fresh green salad. The rich, comforting flavors make them ideal for special occasions or cozy family dinners.
This recipe proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. The combination of perfectly cooked potatoes and luxurious garlic cream sauce will become a cherished addition to your recipe collection.