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If you’re looking for a side dish that combines simplicity with indulgence, this Creamy Garlic Baby Potatoes Recipe might just become your new kitchen favorite. Tender baby potatoes bathed in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, finished off with the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese, create a comforting dish that elevates any meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these potatoes deliver that perfect balance of earthy, creamy, and savory flavors that are impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential to crafting the rich, velvety texture and vibrant flavor of this dish. Each one plays its part, from the mild earthiness of baby potatoes to the aromatic punch of garlic and the luxurious creaminess of Parmesan.
- Baby potatoes, 1 lb, halved: Their small size and tender skin make them ideal for absorbing the creamy sauce while holding their shape perfectly.
- Olive oil, 2 tbsp: Adds a subtle fruitiness and is the perfect base for sautéing garlic without overpowering it.
- Garlic, 4 cloves minced: Delivers that unmistakable fragrant warmth that defines this recipe’s flavor.
- Heavy cream, 1 cup: The secret to that silky, rich sauce that clings beautifully to each potato.
- Parmesan cheese, ½ cup grated: Brings a nutty, salty depth that melts seamlessly into the cream, making every bite lush and savory.
- Fresh parsley, 1 tbsp chopped (optional): Adds a fresh, herby brightness that contrasts the richness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing the flavors and enhancing every ingredient.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Baby Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the halved baby potatoes and cook them gently for 10 to 12 minutes until they’re tender but still hold their shape. This step ensures that your potatoes are perfectly cooked and ready to soak up that divine creamy garlic sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Sauce
While the potatoes cook, warm up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it just until fragrant, around one to two minutes. It’s key to keep an eye on the garlic here so it softens without browning or burning, which could make the sauce bitter.
Step 3: Make it Creamy
Turn the heat down low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously and let the mixture gently simmer for a couple of minutes so it can thicken slightly. This step transforms the garlic oil into a lush, velvety base that will coat each potato beautifully.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir it in until it melts completely into the sauce, creating those gorgeous creamy, cheesy notes everyone loves. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper here to bring out the best in every ingredient.
Step 5: Combine Potatoes and Sauce
Drain the tender potatoes and gently fold them into the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Toss carefully so each potato is evenly coated, ensuring that every bite delivers the perfect harmony of textures and flavors.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For a final touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top to add a vibrant dash of color and a subtle freshness. Serve these babies warm, and watch your guests fall in love with this simple but spectacular Creamy Garlic Baby Potatoes Recipe.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Baby Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice, adding a burst of green and fresh flavor that cuts through the rich sauce. You can also consider sprinkling a little extra Parmesan or some crispy fried shallots for added texture and a hint of crunch.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a hearty vegetarian main. The creamy garlic sauce adds a touch of indulgence, making it a perfect companion for simply roasted vegetables or crisp green salads.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Creamy Garlic Baby Potatoes Recipe in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for a charming presentation. For gatherings, arranging the potatoes on a wooden board garnished with herbs elevates the rustic feel and invites guests to dig in family-style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce might thicken as it cools, but don’t worry—it will loosen again when reheated.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the texture of the potatoes and cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, do so in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month for best quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often to restore the creamy consistency. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help refresh the sauce. Alternatively, a microwave works fine, just heat in short bursts and stir in between.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
You absolutely can, but regular potatoes will take longer to cook and won’t have the same delicate texture or size that makes this recipe so charming. If using, cut them into bite-size pieces to match cooking times closely.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream and cheese?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.
Can I add other herbs or spices to enhance the flavor?
Definitely! Fresh thyme or rosemary work beautifully with potatoes and garlic. A pinch of smoked paprika or a little chili flakes can add an exciting depth and mild heat if you prefer a twist.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand?
Grated Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese can be excellent substitutes. If you’re out of cheese altogether, the sauce will still be tasty with just the cream and garlic, though it won’t have that sharp, nutty character.
How do I make sure the garlic doesn’t burn?
Keep your stove at medium or medium-low heat when sautéing garlic, and watch it carefully. Garlic cooks quickly and can go from fragrant to bitter in seconds, so stirring constantly and removing the pan from heat for a moment if needed will help.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Baby Potatoes Recipe is one of those wonderful dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but special enough to impress guests. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved favorite—rich, comforting, and downright delicious. Give it a go and watch these potatoes become a staple on your table!
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Creamy Garlic Baby Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes recipe features tender halved baby potatoes tossed in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce with Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a comforting side dish, it combines simple ingredients to create an elegant and flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish (Optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the halved baby potatoes and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring the garlic does not burn.
- Make it Creamy: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously and let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Add Cheese: Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts completely into the sauce, creating a smooth, cheesy texture. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Combine Potatoes and Sauce: Add the cooked baby potatoes to the skillet. Gently toss the potatoes in the creamy garlic sauce, making sure each piece is well coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the potatoes for added color and freshness. Serve the dish hot and enjoy this creamy and flavorful side.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; avoid pre-minced garlic to prevent bitterness.
- To ensure even cooking, halve potatoes to similar sizes before boiling.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
- For a vegetarian version, confirm that your Parmesan cheese is free from animal rennet.
- Leftovers can be reheated gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
