Put potatoes, garlic, and a big pinch of kosher salt into a pan. Cover with water, bring to a boil, and simmer until fork tender.
Warm the butter and half and half in a small sauce pan.
Drain the potatoes and return pan back to stove.
Add the warmed liquid a little at a time until you are happy with the consistency.
Mash with a potato masher (see link below) or with a spoon. This gives you more control over the texture. If you use a blender, it’s easy to over-whip them and turn the potatoes into glue.
Stir in grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in ¾ of your chives.
To serve, top with the rest of your chives.
Recipe by The Taste Edit at https://thetasteedit.com/steakhouse-smoked-gouda-mashed-potatoes/