If there’s one dish that reminds me of laid-back summer evenings in my grandmother’s backyard, it’s this: Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes. These golden nuggets, bathed in a luscious garlic cream sauce, are the perfect balance of indulgent and refreshing—just what you want alongside grilled meats, summer salads, or even on their own with a chilled glass of white wine.
My grandmother taught me that the key to great potatoes lies in treating them with care—from how you boil them, to how you let them absorb every bit of flavor. This recipe is inspired by her no-fuss, flavor-packed philosophy, and I’ve added a bit of modern flair to make it perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight meals alike.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🧄 Packed with Flavor: The garlic cream sauce is velvety and garlicky without being overpowering.
- 🥔 Simple Ingredients: Minimal pantry staples, maximum taste.
- 🌿 Fresh & Herby: Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant summer feel.
- 🍽️ Perfect for BBQs or Potlucks: Serve warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
To serve 4 people:
- 1.5 lbs (about 700g) baby potatoes, halved if large
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 5 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
Calories per serving: ~260
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the baby potatoes and cook until just fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Pro Tip: Leave the skins on! They add a lovely texture and extra nutrients.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Cream SauceIn a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—don’t let it brown.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–4 minutes.
Optional but recommended: Add lemon zest at this stage for a fresh citrus twist that balances the richness.
Step 3: Combine & Simmer
Add the drained potatoes to the skillet and gently toss to coat them evenly in the sauce. Let them simmer together for 2–3 minutes so the potatoes absorb the garlicky goodness.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
Transfer the potatoes to a serving bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a bit of extra Parmesan if you like.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips & Variations
- Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano or a dash of cream cheese for a twist.
- Herb Upgrade: Mix in fresh chives or dill for a new flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add Bacon: Crumble in some crispy bacon bits for a smoky crunch.
- Turn it into a salad: Chill the potatoes and mix with crisp cucumbers and radishes for a creamy summer potato salad.
What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes
These potatoes shine as a side dish and pair wonderfully with:
- Grilled steak or chicken
- Herb-marinated tofu or tempeh
- Summer corn on the cob
- Fresh green salads
- Seared salmon or shrimp skewers
For a full-on comfort meal, serve alongside this Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe or balance the creaminess with something fresh like a crisp salad.
Craving more garlic? Try this flavor-packed Garlic Parmesan Pasta for your next pasta night.
Potato Lovers, Rejoice
If you’re hooked on spuds, explore creamy and hearty favorites like the Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham. Or, sharpen your kitchen chops with Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Making Potato Salad and never serve soggy salad again.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
These potatoes are best served fresh, but they hold up surprisingly well.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the potatoes and sauce separately, then combine and reheat just before serving.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! If using larger potatoes, just cut them into bite-sized chunks. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work particularly well due to their creamy texture.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Swap the butter for olive oil or vegan margarine, and use full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Nutritional yeast can replace the Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Can I roast the potatoes instead of boiling them?
Yes! Roasting will give them a crispy exterior. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes before adding them to the sauce.
Will the sauce thicken more as it cools?
Yes, the cream sauce will thicken slightly as it sits. If reheating, you can add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the smooth texture.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Definitely. Boil the potatoes and make the sauce in advance. Reheat together gently just before serving for best flavor and texture.
Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes halved if large
- salt for boiling
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter for sautéing
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Boil baby potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (not browned).
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked potatoes to the sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until coated and heated through.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Conclusion
There’s something undeniably comforting about creamy, garlicky potatoes—especially when they’re kissed with fresh herbs and just the right amount of richness. Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes are a celebration of summer simplicity: quick to prepare, universally loved, and endlessly adaptable.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping a cozy weeknight dinner, or looking for your new favorite BBQ side, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Go ahead—whip up a batch and don’t be surprised if there are no leftovers!
