When you need a rich, creamy, and ultra-flavorful side dish, these Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes hit the spot! Tender baby potatoes are smothered in a velvety garlic-infused sauce, making them the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them with steak, roasted chicken, or seafood, these potatoes bring the kind of buttery, garlicky goodness that everyone loves.
Plus, they’re easy to make in just 30 minutes, making them a go-to recipe for weeknights, holidays, or whenever you need a comforting side.
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Why You’ll Love These Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes
✔ Ultra-Creamy & Garlicky – The sauce is rich, smooth, and packed with garlic flavor.
✔ Quick & Easy – Just 30 minutes from start to finish!
✔ Versatile – Pairs well with steak, chicken, pork, or even as a stand-alone dish.
✔ Comfort Food at Its Best – Buttery, cheesy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
What Do Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes Taste Like?
These potatoes are buttery, creamy, and deeply flavorful. The garlic-infused sauce is smooth and velvety, with a perfect balance of richness from heavy cream and a touch of tang from Parmesan cheese. Every bite is soft yet slightly firm, giving you the best contrast between the creamy sauce and the tender potatoes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Potatoes:
- 1 ½ lbs baby potatoes (golden or red), halved
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (adds depth of flavor)
- ½ tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme leaves)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, but adds a subtle warmth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese for topping
Necessary Tools for Preparation
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
- Wash and halve the baby potatoes (leave the skin on for extra texture).
- In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter and add the minced garlic.
- Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, thyme, and smoked paprika.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Combine & Serve
- Return the potatoes to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly in the sauce.
- Let them cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes
Want to make the creamiest, most flavorful garlic potatoes ever? Follow these expert tips to ensure perfectly tender potatoes coated in a rich, velvety garlic sauce every time!
1. Use Waxy Potatoes for the Best Texture
- Baby potatoes, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes work best because they hold their shape and stay creamy inside.
- Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets—they tend to break apart and become too mushy.
2. Don’t Skip the Browning Step
- Sautéing the potatoes in butter and olive oil before adding the sauce gives them a golden, slightly crispy texture.
- This extra step adds a layer of flavor that makes the dish even better.
3. Use Fresh Garlic for Maximum Flavor
- Fresh minced garlic creates a more aromatic and intense garlic taste.
- If you want a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic first for a slightly sweet, caramelized depth.
4. Simmer the Sauce Gently
- Do not boil the sauce—high heat can cause the cream to separate or become too thick too quickly.
- Keep the heat low to medium and stir constantly for a smooth, silky texture.
5. Adjust the Sauce Thickness
- For a thicker sauce: Simmer a little longer, or stir in ½ teaspoon cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water.
- For a thinner sauce: Add a little more broth or milk to loosen it up.
6. Balance the Garlic with a Touch of Dijon Mustard
- Dijon mustard adds a subtle tanginess that balances the richness of the cream.
- It won’t make the dish taste like mustard—it just enhances the overall depth of flavor.
7. Always Grate Your Own Parmesan
- Pre-grated Parmesan contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a silkier, creamier sauce.
8. Season at the Right Time
- Salt the potatoes while they cook to build flavor from the start.
- Adjust the final seasoning after adding the Parmesan, as the cheese adds some saltiness on its own.
9. Garnish for Extra Freshness
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives add a pop of color and freshness.
- A sprinkle of extra Parmesan before serving makes them even more irresistible!
10. Make It Ahead for Even More Flavor
- These creamy garlic potatoes taste even better after sitting for 30 minutes, as the sauce thickens and coats the potatoes perfectly.
- If reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth.
Storage Instructions for Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes
These Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them while keeping their rich, velvety texture intact.
Refrigeration (Best for Short-Term Storage)
- Allow the potatoes to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation.
- Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- The sauce may thicken in the fridge, but don’t worry—you can easily fix this when reheating.
Freezing (Not Recommended)
- Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well—they tend to separate and become grainy when thawed.
- If you must freeze, store the potatoes separately and make a fresh batch of sauce when reheating.
- If freezing, use a heavy cream-based sauce rather than one with milk or half-and-half, as it freezes slightly better.
How to Reheat Without Losing Creaminess
Stovetop (Best Method)
- Heat a skillet over low heat and add the leftover potatoes.
- Stir in a splash of milk, cream, or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Warm gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy again.
Microwave (Quick Method)
- Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish.
- Add a little milk or cream to help rehydrate the sauce.
- Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
Oven (For Larger Batches)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the potatoes in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated evenly.
Storage Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t store while hot – Always let the potatoes cool to prevent condensation, which can make them watery.
Don’t freeze with sauce – The dairy-based sauce may separate, leading to a grainy texture when reheated.
Don’t reheat at high temperatures – Overheating can cause the sauce to break and become oily.
Substitutions and Variations for Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes
These Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes are incredibly versatile! Whether you’re looking to lighten them up, make them dairy-free, or add extra flavor, here are some easy substitutions and variations to customize this dish to your liking.
Substitutions
1. Potato Substitutes
If you don’t have baby potatoes, try:
- Yukon Gold potatoes – Cut into 1-inch cubes for a similar creamy texture.
- Red potatoes – Hold their shape well and have a slightly firmer bite.
- Fingerling potatoes – Great for a more elegant presentation.
- Russet potatoes – Not ideal, as they break down more easily, but will work if you prefer a softer dish.
2. Dairy Substitutes
If you need a dairy-free or lighter version, try these swaps:
- Milk or Half-and-Half instead of Heavy Cream – For a lighter sauce (but it won’t be as rich).
- Coconut Cream – Works as a dairy-free option, but adds a slight coconut flavor.
- Cashew Cream – Blended cashews with water create a creamy, dairy-free alternative.
- Vegan Butter & Nutritional Yeast – To replace butter and Parmesan while keeping a cheesy, savory taste.
3. Cheese Substitutes
If you don’t have Parmesan, try:
- Pecorino Romano – Slightly saltier and sharper than Parmesan.
- Asiago or Gruyère – Adds a nutty depth.
- Nutritional Yeast – A great dairy-free, cheesy alternative.
4. Garlic Options
- Roasted Garlic – For a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Garlic Powder – If fresh garlic isn’t available, use 1 teaspoon for every 2 cloves.
- Shallots or Onion – Sautéed finely for a slight twist on the garlic base.
Variations
1. Make It Spicy
- Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Stir in chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
2. Add Extra Herbs for More Flavor
- Fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano – Enhance the aroma and depth.
- Chopped chives or green onions – Perfect for a mild oniony bite.
- Dill or basil – Adds a fresh, slightly sweet contrast.
3. Make It Extra Cheesy
- Stir in shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or Gouda for a thicker, more indulgent sauce.
- Melt cream cheese into the sauce for extra richness.
4. Add More Veggies
- Sautéed mushrooms – Add an earthy, umami flavor.
- Wilted spinach or kale – Stir in just before serving for extra nutrients.
- Roasted bell peppers – For a slightly sweet contrast.
5. Make It Crispy
- After coating the potatoes in the sauce, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese or breadcrumbs, and broil for 5 minutes for a crispy, golden topping.
6. Protein Additions
- Crispy bacon crumbles – Because everything is better with bacon!
- Grilled chicken or shrimp – Turns this side dish into a full meal.
- Chorizo or sausage – For a smoky, hearty variation.
7. Serve It Differently
- Mashed Potatoes Version – Smash the cooked potatoes slightly and mix them with the creamy garlic sauce.
- Roasted Version – Roast the potatoes first and then toss them in the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Baby Potatoes?
Yes! Dice Yukon Gold or red potatoes into 1-inch cubes for similar results. Just make sure they are evenly sized so they cook properly.
2. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Cook the potatoes and sauce separately, then combine and reheat before serving.
3. What Can I Serve With These Creamy Garlic Potatoes?
These potatoes go great with:
- Grilled steak or chicken
- Roasted salmon or shrimp
- Sautéed greens or a fresh salad
4. How Do I Fix a Sauce That’s Too Thin?
Simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid, or add ½ tsp cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to thicken it.
5. Can I Make This in the Oven Instead?
Yes! Roast the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, then toss with the sauce before serving.
Conclusion – The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Potato Side Dish
These Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes are rich, buttery, and absolutely irresistible! Whether you’re serving them as a side dish for a fancy dinner or just a comforting treat, they’re guaranteed to steal the show.
Try them out and let me know what you think! Leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest!
PrintCreamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
When you need a rich, creamy, and ultra-flavorful side dish, these Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes hit the spot! Tender baby potatoes are smothered in a velvety garlic-infused sauce, making them the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them with steak, roasted chicken, or seafood, these potatoes bring the kind of buttery, garlicky goodness that everyone loves.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes:
- 1 ½ lbs baby potatoes (golden or red), halved
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (adds depth of flavor)
- ½ tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme leaves)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, but adds a subtle warmth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
- Wash and halve the baby potatoes (leave the skin on for extra texture).
- In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter and add the minced garlic.
- Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, thyme, and smoked paprika.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Combine & Serve
- Return the potatoes to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly in the sauce.
- Let them cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Use waxy potatoes (baby potatoes, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes) for the best texture—they stay creamy inside without falling apart.
- Sauté the garlic just until fragrant (about 30 seconds) to prevent bitterness.
- For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or a handful of shredded cheese.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth, milk, or cream to loosen it up.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: creamy garlic potatoes, garlic butter potatoes, baby potatoes, parmesan potatoes, easy potato side dish