There’s something magical about the aroma of sweet, roasted garlic mingling in the kitchen. These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. They’re the kind of dish that makes everyone feel at home and keeps them coming back for seconds!
Imagine buttery potatoes, whipped until creamy, with that rich, mellow garlic flavor shining through. It’s like a classic side dish, but with a delightful twist. No need for fancy gadgetsjust a pot, a masher, and your love! Plus, these beauties are freezer-friendly, making meal prep a breeze. You’ll wonder how you ever made mashed potatoes without roasting garlic first.
I started whipping up these mashed potatoes during chilly autumn evenings back in 2015. The first time I served them, my sister couldn’t stop raving about their creamy goodness. The secret? Roast the garlic until it’s golden and softthat sweetness transforms everything. It’s been a go-to family recipe ever since, proving that simple can be extraordinary!
Thomas Baker
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Best Holiday Side Dish
Enjoy these creamy garlic mashed potatoes that combine the rich flavors of roasted garlic and tender red potatoes. This garlic mashed potatoes recipe is perfect as a comforting holiday side dish or a family dinner favorite. The roasted garlic mashed potatoes deliver a smooth, flavorful twist on classic mashed potatoes everyone will love.
2 pounds red potatoes washed and cut into quarters
kosher salt
6 tablespoons butter
3/4 cup half and half
fresh ground pepper
Method
Trim the top quarter-inch off the garlic head, then wrap it in foil and drizzle with olive oil. Seal the foil tightly and roast in a 375°F oven for about 60 minutes until soft and golden. Once cooled, squeeze the garlic cloves out of their skins. Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Stir in 1 teaspoon kosher salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer the potatoes until they become tender when pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the roasted garlic cloves. Warm the half and half with the butter until the butter melts completely, then pour into the pot. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper. Mash everything together until the potatoes reach a creamy texture with some small lumps remaining. Serve the mashed potatoes garnished with fresh herbs and an extra pat of butter if desired.
Notes
For best flavor, use red potatoes for their creamy texture and a smooth consistency. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or holiday mains. Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comfort in Every Bite: These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are rich, creamy, and packed with that deep, sweet flavor that feels like a hug from the inside.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to be the star of the table.
Beginner-Friendly: With straightforward steps and easily accessible ingredients, you’ll be whipping these up with confidence in no time!
Make Ahead and Freeze: Prepare a big batch and freeze them for a quick side dish later. Just reheat and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Tools
Let’s talk about what you’ll need to create these delicious roasted garlic mashed potatoes.
Red Potatoes: They hold their shape beautifully and mash up nicely.
Garlic: Roasting transforms the garlic into a sweet and mellow addition.
Butter and Half-and-Half: For that creamy, dreamy consistency that’s simply irresistible.
Simple Tools: A large pot for boiling potatoes, a masher for mashing them, and a trusty oven for roasting garlic.
How It Works Step by Step
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut off the top quarter inch of a head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for about an hour until soft and golden.
While the garlic roasts, wash and quarter 2 pounds of red potatoes. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil and simmer until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
Once tender, drain the potatoes and place them back in the pot. Squeeze out those sweet roasted garlic cloves and add them in! Gently warm 3/4 cup of half-and-half and 6 tablespoons of butter until melted, then add to the potatoes.
Mash everything together until you have a creamy consistency with just a few delicious lumps. Season with salt and fresh ground pepper to taste.
Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with extra butter or fresh herbs, and dig in!
Troubleshooting & Tweaks
Here are some handy tips if things don’t go exactly as planned.
Too Thick: If your mashed potatoes are too thick, just stir in a bit more warmed half-and-half until you reach the desired consistency.
Too Lumpy: For creamier potatoes, you can use a hand mixer to smooth everything out. Just be gentle to avoid turning them into glue!
Flavor Boost: Consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an added flavor kick.
Serving & Storage Tips
Here’s how to serve these comforting potatoes and keep the leftovers fresh!
Serving: These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats, hearty stews, or your favorite veggie dishes.
Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze your mashed potatoes! Portion them into freezer-safe bags and lay flat in the freezer. They’ll last for up to 3 months.
Timing Breakdown
Step
Timing
Roasting garlic
1 hour
Boiling potatoes
15 minutes
Mashing and combining
10 minutes
Expert Says
Roasted garlic mashed potatoes deliver a rich, creamy texture thanks to the starch in the potatoes, which gelatinizes during cooking. The caramelized flavor of roasted garlic not only enhances taste but also provides beneficial antioxidants, making this dish a savory and nutritious comfort food option.
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The Journey to Perfect Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
The path to these roasted garlic mashed potatoes was dotted with lessons and laughter. After an early attempt that turned into a sticky mess, I discovered the magic of roasting the garlic first. Now, these creamy, aromatic potatoes bring back cozy memories of family dinners, making each bite a comforting hug on a chilly evening.
FAQs ( Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes )
Can I use garlic powder in this recipe?
You can substitute garlic powder for roasted garlic, but the flavor will vary. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove of garlic for a similar taste. However, roasting garlic provides a sweeter, richer flavor that is hard to replicate.
How do I make the potatoes creamy?
For creamy mashed potatoes, ensure you use a ricer or masher to break down the cooked potatoes well. Adding warm milk or cream and softened butter gradually helps achieve the perfect consistency. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make them gluey.
What potatoes are best for mashing?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best for this dish. They have a fluffy texture when cooked, making them ideal for a light and creamy mash. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they will not provide the same smoothness.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance. To do so, cook the potatoes, mash them, and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
Conclusion
Your kitchen will fill with the irresistible aroma of roasted garlic mashed potatoes, creating a cozy ambiance that beckons everyone to the table. With minimal effort and under an hour, you’ll craft a dish that offers creamy comfort and a sweet hint of garlic you can’t resist.
Want to spice things up? Try adding fresh chives or even swap in sour cream for a tangy twist. And don’t forget, these mashers freeze wonderfullylike a hug waiting to be warmed up! That’s a little trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen that ensures comfort is always just minutes away!
I’d love to hear how your own batch turns out! Did you grow up with something like this on your family table? Save or share this recipe with your loved ones, and let’s spread the warmth of homemade goodness together. Happy cooking!
With a passion for wholesome cooking inspired by family traditions, I create healthy, simple recipes focused on sourdough, shrimp, chicken, and balanced meals for everyday wellness.
Every recipe here is tested in my kitchen using U.S. measurements and easy-to-find ingredients, so you can cook confidently.
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