Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Chives

Rich, simple, and meant to anchor the rest of the table

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Mashed potatoes don’t need much explaining — they just need to be good.

These creamy garlic mashed potatoes are the kind of side that quietly holds the whole plate together. Rich, comforting, and familiar, they pair beautifully with slow-braised meats (like my short rib recipe) and soak up sauce without stealing the spotlight.

This is the version I make for Christmas dinner — simple, reliable, and meant to bring a sense of ease to the table.

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This recipe is part of my Holiday Catalogue — a curated collection of cozy recipes, festive details, and simple ideas to make the season feel warm without the overwhelm.

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Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: ~20 minutes
Serves: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

• 3 lbs red potatoes, scrubbed and cut into chunks

• chicken broth (enough to cover potatoes in the pot)

• 4–6 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4–5 cloves garlic, minced (or grated for stronger flavor)

• ¼–½ cup heavy cream

• 2–3 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped

• ½ tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste

• ¼ tsp black pepper, plus more to taste

Optional: reserved potato broth (up to ½ cup)

Optional finish: lemon zest, flaky sea salt, or a drizzle of olive oil

Instructions

1. Boil: Place cut potatoes in chicken broth or water. Add a pinch of salt, and boil until soft.

2. Garlic Butter: In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add garlic and gently simmer for 2–3 minutes.

3. Mash: Drain potatoes. Mash and add garlic butter. Stir in heavy cream (as pictured above) until smooth.

4. Finish: Add chives, salt, and pepper. Loosen with a splash of reserved broth if needed. Top with flaky sea salt or lemon zest (optional).
   

Enjoy!

With Love,
Ambyr

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