Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting side dish that steals the show at any meal, look no further than Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes. This recipe has been a longtime favorite in my kitchen, and I can’t wait to share it with you. The rich, creamy texture paired with the sweet, mellow flavor of roasted garlic makes these mashed potatoes truly special. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re serving them alongside a holiday feast or just whipping them up for a quick dinner, they always receive rave reviews. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have these creamy potatoes ready in no time.
• Flavorful Experience: The roasted garlic adds a depth of flavor that elevates traditional mashed potatoes to a whole new level.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! This dish is sure to please picky eaters and foodies alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these mashed potatoes in advance and just reheat them when you’re ready to serve.
• Comfort Food Classic: There’s something about creamy mashed potatoes that brings warmth and comfort to any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a breeze! You’ll find that they are all simple, wholesome items that you probably already have on hand or can easily pick up at your local grocery store.

For the Potatoes

• 1 head garlic
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 2 pounds red potatoes (washed and cut into quarters)
• kosher salt

For the Creaminess

• 6 tablespoons butter
• 3/4 cup half and half
• fresh ground pepper

Variations

One of the best things about Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Cheese: Stir in some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy kick.
• Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme while mashing for an aromatic touch.
• Creamy Alternatives: Swap out half and half for almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Extra Veggies: Fold in steamed cauliflower or carrots for added nutrition and color.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by roasting your garlic. Cut off the top 1/4 inch of the garlic head and wrap it in foil with a drizzle of olive oil. Roasting at 375 degrees F for about an hour transforms the garlic into soft, golden goodness. This step is key because it mellows out the sharpness of raw garlic, giving your mashed potatoes a rich flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Next, place your quartered red potatoes into a large pot or Dutch oven. Cover them with cold water and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring everything to a boil and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until fork-tender. Cooking them this way ensures that they absorb just enough moisture without being watery.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot along with those delicious roasted garlic cloves. This is where all the magic happens!

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Gently warm the half and half and butter until melted (you can use either the stovetop or microwave). Pour this mixture over your potatoes and garlic then season with salt and fresh ground pepper. Mash everything together until it’s creamy but still has some delightful lumps—this texture is what makes homemade mashed potatoes feel so comforting!

Step 5: Serve It Up

Finally, garnish your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes with fresh herbs and maybe even a pat of extra butter on top. Serve them warm alongside your favorite main dishes, and watch as everyone reaches for seconds!

Enjoy making this beloved recipe—it’s bound to become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is all about the little details that elevate your dish to new heights!

• Choose the right potatoes: Use red potatoes or Yukon Golds for a creamy texture. They have a higher moisture content, making them perfect for mashing.
• Don’t rush the roasting: Give the garlic plenty of time to roast until soft and golden. This brings out its sweet, mellow flavor that will infuse your mashed potatoes beautifully.
• Warm your dairy: Gently warming the half and half and butter before adding them to the potatoes helps create a smoother mash. Cold ingredients can cool down your potatoes and make them gummy.
• Season as you go: Taste and adjust your seasoning throughout the process. This ensures that every bite is full of flavor.
• Leave some lumps: For a rustic feel, don’t over-mash! Lumps add character and a homemade touch to your mashed potatoes.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas to present this comforting side dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Top with chopped parsley, chives, or thyme for a burst of color and freshness.
• Extra butter: A little pat of butter melted on top adds richness and an inviting presentation.
• Shaved cheese: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil make for a colorful plate that’s packed with nutrients.
• Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes.
• Roast Chicken: Juicy roast chicken seasoned with herbs complements the savory notes of garlic in your mash!
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch and vibrant color, creating a well-balanced meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes will not only be delicious but also visually appealing on any dinner table! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, making your weeknight dinners or holiday feasts a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Portion the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For a creamier texture, add a splash of half and half or milk during reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

Can I use regular potatoes instead of red potatoes for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Yes! While red potatoes give a creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor, you can certainly use Yukon Gold or even Russet potatoes if that’s what you have on hand.

How can I make my Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes vegan?

You can easily substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use almond milk or oat milk instead of half and half. This keeps the deliciousness while catering to a vegan diet!

Can I prepare Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! They store well in the refrigerator and can also be frozen. Just remember to reheat gently for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! Their creamy texture and rich flavor make them a standout side dish that will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy every comforting bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how they turn out for you!