Creamy Garlic Potatoes

Creamy Garlic Potatoes is a comforting and rich dish perfect for any occasion. The tender potatoes are enveloped in a luscious garlic cream sauce, creating a dish that’s both simple to make and incredibly satisfying. This versatile side pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes and is sure to be a hit at any meal. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these Creamy Garlic Potatoes will add a touch of indulgence to your table.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds (700 g) baby potatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Halve the Potatoes: Begin by washing and halving the baby potatoes. Uniform pieces ensure even cooking and a consistent texture.
2. Season Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. This initial seasoning helps to enhance the flavor of the potatoes as they cook.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add Potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes cut-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the bottoms are golden brown and crispy. This initial sear locks in the flavor and gives the potatoes a nice texture.
3. Flip and Cook: Flip the potatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they are tender. Reduce the heat to medium if necessary to avoid burning. The potatoes should be cooked through but not mushy.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the potatoes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.
2. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine, ensuring the cheese melts into the cream to create a smooth sauce.
3. Season the Sauce: Add the dried thyme and rosemary. Stir well to distribute the herbs evenly throughout the sauce. These herbs add a lovely aromatic flavor that complements the richness of the cream and the earthiness of the potatoes.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, until it thickens slightly and the potatoes are fully coated. The sauce should be creamy and cling to the potatoes without being too runny.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Once the sauce has thickened and the potatoes are tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. The parsley adds a light, bright note that balances the richness of the dish.
2. Serve: Serve the creamy garlic potatoes hot, alongside your favorite main dishes such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish. They also pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Notes

• Potato Varieties: While baby potatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just ensure they are cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, use them instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor. Simply increase the amount slightly to taste.
• Cheese Options: For a different flavor profile, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano or Gruyère. These cheeses add their unique characteristics and can elevate the dish.

Variations

Low-Carb Version:

• Substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets. Follow the same instructions for cooking and making the cream sauce. The cauliflower will absorb the flavors beautifully and provide a lower-carb alternative.

Gluten-Free Version:

• This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure that all ingredients used, particularly the Parmesan cheese, are certified gluten-free if necessary.

Vegan Version:

• Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. The result will be a rich and satisfying dish that adheres to a vegan diet.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Potatoes

• Consistent Size: Cutting the potatoes into consistent sizes ensures even cooking. This helps to avoid having some pieces undercooked while others are overdone.
• Searing: Ensure the potatoes are well-seared before adding the cream sauce. This step adds a layer of texture and flavor to the potatoes.
• Simmering: Let the cream sauce simmer on low heat to avoid curdling and to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan.

Creamy Garlic Potatoes is a delightful and rich dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. The combination of tender potatoes and a flavorful garlic cream sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a special event, this recipe is sure to impress. The creamy, garlicky goodness of these potatoes is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal and the compliments that come with it!

Enjoy your Creamy Garlic Potatoes!