If you’re craving a comforting, rich, and flavorful side dish that feels both indulgent and easy to whip up, you’ve got to try this Easy Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes Recipe. These tender baby potatoes bathed in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce deliver a perfect balance of buttery goodness and aromatic herbs, making every bite utterly irresistible. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe offers a simple yet elegant way to elevate humble potatoes to star status.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating that silky, flavorful sauce and perfectly tender potatoes. Each one plays a vital role: from the freshness of garlic to the richness of heavy cream and the sharpness of Parmesan, these elements combine to make this dish irresistible.
- Baby potatoes (1.5 lbs): Choose new or baby potatoes for their tender texture and quick cooking time.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds a fruity base flavor and helps sauté the garlic beautifully.
- Butter (3 tbsp): Provides a rich, creamy foundation that enhances the sauce’s smoothness.
- Garlic cloves, minced (5): The true star for that punch of savory, aromatic flavor.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Creates the luscious, velvety texture of the sauce.
- Chicken broth or vegetable broth (1/4 cup): Adds depth and balances the creaminess with subtle savory notes.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Melts into the sauce for a salty, nutty finish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Dried thyme or Italian seasoning (1 tsp): Adds a herbal brightness that complements the richness beautifully.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For a fresh, colorful garnish that lifts the entire dish.
How to Make Easy Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the baby potatoes, halved or quartered, and boil them for about 12 to 15 minutes until they are tender but not falling apart. Drain them well and set aside—this step ensures the potatoes are perfectly soft and ready to soak up all that creamy garlic goodness.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil and butter together over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the minced garlic and gently sauté it for 1 to 2 minutes. The aroma should be heavenly, but make sure it doesn’t burn—a light golden color means you’ve hit the perfect moment to move on.
Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes. This gentle simmer thickens the sauce just enough, creating that perfect luscious texture without overwhelming the garlic’s bright flavor.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried thyme or Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until it is silky and smooth, with the cheese fully melted into the creamy base. This step builds layers of flavor, balancing the richness with herbal notes and a subtle saltiness.
Step 5: Combine Potatoes with Sauce
Now, add the cooked baby potatoes into the skillet. Gently toss them in the creamy garlic sauce, ensuring every piece is beautifully coated. Let them simmer together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to allow the potatoes to absorb all those incredible flavors.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Transfer the potatoes to a serving dish, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if you like, and serve warm. This final touch adds a burst of color and freshness that perfectly complements the creamy, garlicky richness.
How to Serve Easy Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh chopped parsley is the classic garnish to brighten the dish, you can also try a sprinkle of crispy fried shallots or a dusting of smoked paprika if you want to add a hint of texture or a pop of smoky flavor. A grating of extra Parmesan on top never hurts either!
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled or roasted meats like chicken, steak, or pork chops. It’s also a fantastic companion to roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a lighter, well-rounded meal. The creamy sauce complements robust flavors, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the creamy garlic sauce baby potatoes in small individual cast iron skillets or rustic bowls right at the table. You can also turn this recipe into a warm potato salad by chilling the coated potatoes slightly and tossing in some crisp arugula or spinach for contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The cream sauce may thicken as it chills, but don’t worry—that makes reheating even easier.
Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze exceptionally well due to the cream sauce’s texture, which can separate after thawing. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or store leftovers in the fridge instead.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up and bring back that perfect creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just cut larger potatoes into bite-sized pieces and adjust boiling time accordingly until fork-tender.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, simply swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and you’ve got a vegetarian-friendly dish without compromising on flavor.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, try using dairy-free butter alternatives and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a similar richness.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce a little longer to reduce it and thicken naturally, or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water if you want an extra creamy texture quickly.
What herbs work best with the creamy garlic sauce?
Dried thyme or Italian seasoning are great choices, but fresh herbs like rosemary, chives, or tarragon can add a lovely twist if you prefer.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes Recipe truly transforms simple potatoes into a comforting, luscious side that feels like a special treat anytime you make it. Once you try it, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes for both casual dinners and entertaining guests. Don’t wait to give this creamy, garlicky delight a spot on your table soon!
Print
Easy Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously tender baby potatoes coated in a rich, creamy garlic sauce flavored with Parmesan cheese and herbs. This easy recipe is perfect as a comforting side dish that combines simple ingredients to create a luxurious taste with just 30 minutes of prep and cooking time.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the baby potatoes. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and set aside.
- Make Garlic Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and butter together. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to let the garlic burn.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic mixture. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried thyme or Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce cook for another 2-3 minutes until it becomes creamy and smooth.
- Combine Potatoes: Add the cooked baby potatoes into the skillet and gently toss them to coat well in the creamy garlic sauce. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes more so the potatoes can absorb the flavors.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve the creamy garlic sauce baby potatoes warm for the best flavor.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Make sure to not overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- You can add a splash of lemon juice for a slight tangy brightness if preferred.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a hearty vegetarian side.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
