Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that elevates any meal, you’ve found it with these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes! This recipe brings together the creamy texture of mashed potatoes with the rich, sweet flavor of roasted garlic. It’s a dish that feels special enough for family gatherings yet easy enough for busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to favorite!

What makes these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes truly special is how they combine simplicity with heartwarming flavors. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just need a cozy dinner at home, these potatoes will always hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Easy to Make: The steps are straightforward, making it perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Kids and adults both adore the creamy texture and delicious garlic taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: You can make these mashed potatoes ahead of time and just reheat them when you’re ready to serve.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a casual weeknight dinner, these potatoes fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes use simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely have on hand. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this delightful dish!

For the 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can customize these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations:

• Add Cheese: Mix in your favorite cheese like cheddar or parmesan for an extra creamy and cheesy flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme while mashing for an aromatic twist.
• Creamy Without Dairy: Substitute the half and half with plant-based milk and use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Extra Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, add more roasted garlic cloves to intensify that wonderful flavor!

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by preparing the garlic. Cut off the top 1/4 inch of the garlic head, then wrap it in foil. Drizzle with olive oil before sealing up the foil. Roasting the garlic at 375 degrees F allows it to become soft and golden, enhancing its natural sweetness. When done, squeezing out those roasted cloves is incredibly satisfying!

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

In a large pot or Dutch oven, place your quartered potatoes and cover them with cold water. Add 1 tsp of kosher salt and bring everything to a boil. Simmering for about 15 minutes until fork-tender ensures your potatoes are perfectly cooked. This step sets up that fluffy texture we all love in mashed potatoes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your potatoes are cooked and drained, return them to the pot along with those beautiful roasted garlic cloves. This combination is where the magic happens!

Step 4: Mash It Up

Gently warm your half and half and butter until melted—this can be done on the stovetop or in the microwave. Pour this mixture over your potatoes and garlic, adding more salt and fresh ground pepper to taste. Mash everything together until it reaches a creamy consistency with just a few lumps remaining; this adds character to your dish.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally, garnish your mashed potatoes with fresh herbs or an extra pat of butter if desired. Serve hot as a side dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes! They’re not just food; they’re comfort on a plate!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is all about technique and patience, so let’s make sure your dish is as delightful as possible!

• Choose the right potatoes – Red potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture and naturally buttery flavor. They hold their shape well and create a smooth mash that’s irresistible.

• Don’t rush the garlic roasting – Allowing the garlic to roast until it’s soft and golden brings out its sweet, caramelized flavor. This step is crucial for enhancing the overall taste of your mashed potatoes.

• Warm your dairy – Gently warming the butter and half-and-half before adding them to the potatoes helps ensure a smooth, creamy consistency. Cold ingredients can cause the potatoes to seize up and become gummy.

• Mash with care – For the best texture, use a potato masher or ricer instead of a blender. Over-mixing can lead to gluey potatoes, so aim for a few lumps for that rustic charm.

• Taste as you go – Adjusting salt and pepper during the mashing process allows you to build layers of flavor. Every potato variety has a different level of earthiness, so it’s essential to season according to your preference.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not just a side; they’re a comforting centerpiece that can elevate any meal. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs – Chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Extra butter – A small pat of melting butter on top creates an inviting look and adds another layer of richness.
• Olive oil drizzle – A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil not only enhances flavor but also gives an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled until tender provide a colorful and healthy contrast.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These crispy sprouts offer a slightly bitter crunch that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of mashed potatoes, creating a delightful balance on your plate.

• Herb-Crusted Chicken – A succulent herb-crusted chicken breast makes for a hearty main dish that complements the richness of your mashed potatoes without overshadowing it.

• Garden Salad – A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides freshness and acidity that brightens up your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes will surely be a hit at any dinner table! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, store them, and enjoy a comforting side dish throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• To freeze, scoop the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Flatten bags to remove excess air before sealing.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.
• Add a splash of half and half or milk if you need to loosen them up while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes that may help you out!

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

Yes! While red potatoes offer a creamy texture, you can also use Yukon gold or even russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that different varieties may yield slightly different textures.

How do I make my Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute butter with vegan butter and half and half with a non-dairy milk of your choice. Almond milk or oat milk works great!

Can Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! These mashed potatoes can be prepared ahead. Store them in the fridge or freeze for later use—perfect for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They are creamy, flavorful, and bring warmth to any meal. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, these mashed potatoes will surely impress. Enjoy every buttery bite and feel free to share your experience! Happy cooking!