Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that will impress your family and friends, look no further than Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and it never fails to bring smiles around the dinner table. The rich flavors of roasted garlic combined with creamy potatoes create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and the way it elevates the humble potato to something extraordinary. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare! Just imagine digging into a warm bowl of fluffy mashed potatoes, infused with the sweet, savory essence of roasted garlic. You’ll find yourself going back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious side dish without breaking a sweat.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! This dish is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve—great for busy nights!
• Delicious Flavor: The roasted garlic adds a depth of flavor that takes ordinary mashed potatoes to the next level.
• Versatile Side: Pair these potatoes with almost any main course—it’s an all-time favorite at holiday meals!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes requires just a handful of wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 1 head garlic
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 2 pounds red potatoes (washed and cut into quarters)
• Kosher salt
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 3/4 cup half and half
• Fresh ground pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to give your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes a unique twist:

• Add Cheese: Stir in some grated parmesan or cheddar for an extra cheesy delight.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chives or rosemary for added flavor and freshness.
• Creamy Alternative: Swap half and half with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
• Garlic Lovers’ Delight: For even more garlic flavor, add sautéed minced garlic directly into the mash.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

First, we need to roast our garlic. Cut off about 1/4 inch from the top of the garlic head, drizzle it with olive oil, then wrap it in foil. This step is crucial because roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the garlic, making it soft and spreadable. Bake in your oven at 375 degrees F for about an hour until it turns golden brown.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Next up, we’ll cook our potatoes! Place them in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a teaspoon of kosher salt before bringing it all to a boil. Simmer them for about 15 minutes or until they are fork-tender. This method ensures that your potatoes will be fluffy rather than gummy.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot. Now it’s time to add those sweet roasted garlic cloves that you’ve squeezed out of their skins! Mixing them into the warm potatoes will infuse every bite with delicious flavor.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

In this step, gently warm your half and half and butter until everything melts together nicely. Pour this mixture over your potatoes along with some salt and fresh ground pepper. Mash everything together until creamy but still slightly lumpy—that’s where the perfect texture lies!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally, garnish your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes with fresh herbs and an extra pat of butter if you like! Serve hot as an irresistible side dish that everyone will love.

Enjoy every bite of these creamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes; they are sure to become a cherished recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is easier than you might think—just follow these handy tips to take your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh garlic – Fresh garlic has a sweeter and more robust flavor compared to pre-packaged options. Roasting it brings out its natural sweetness, making your mashed potatoes rich and aromatic.
• Don’t rush the potatoes – Boiling your potatoes until they are fork-tender ensures they will mash smoothly. Under-cooked potatoes can lead to lumpy mashed potatoes, so take your time!
• Warm the cream and butter – Warming the half-and-half and butter before adding them to the potatoes helps create a smoother texture. Cold dairy can cool down your potatoes too quickly, resulting in a less creamy consistency.
• Mash with love – Use a potato masher or ricer for the best results. A gentle hand is key; over-mashing can make your potatoes gummy instead of fluffy.
• Taste as you go – Seasoning is essential! Always taste your mashed potatoes before serving, adjusting salt and pepper to suit your preferences. This ensures everyone enjoys the perfect balance of flavors.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not just a side; they’re a star! Here are some delightful ways to present this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs – Sprinkling parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Extra melted butter – Drizzling some melted butter on top not only looks inviting but enhances the rich flavor of the potatoes.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (or non-dairy alternative) – For those who enjoy a cheesy touch, adding some finely grated cheese elevates the flavor profile beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables – The caramelization from roasting brings out the sweetness in veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or squash, making them an ideal contrast to creamy mashed potatoes.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu Skewers – These add protein while keeping dinner light. Marinated and grilled, they provide a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes.
• Steamed Green Beans with Lemon Zest – Bright and crisp green beans add a refreshing crunch that complements the creaminess of the mashed potatoes.
• Garden Salad with Vinaigrette – A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of your main course beautifully.

Now you’re ready to serve up those amazing Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes! Enjoy every bite and share this comforting side dish with loved ones at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a comforting side dish without the last-minute rush. Here’s how to store and reheat them so they taste just as delicious as when they were first made.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If desired, add a little extra half and half or butter before sealing to keep them creamy.

Freezing

• Portion the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Transfer the desired amount of potatoes to a saucepan over low heat.
• Add a splash of half and half or milk to maintain creaminess while stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warm.

FAQs

Got questions about making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes? Here are some common ones!

Can I use other types of potatoes for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! While red potatoes create a creamy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or even Russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may alter the flavor slightly.

How can I make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the butter with your favorite plant-based spread and use almond milk or coconut milk instead of half and half. You’ll still get a delightful flavor!

Can I prepare Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! These mashed potatoes can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or frozen. Follow the storing tips above for easy meal prep.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They are creamy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to give it a try, and savor every delicious bite!