These creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes are so comforting! With the rich flavor of roasted garlic, each bite feels like a warm hug.
Honestly, I can’t resist sneaking bites straight from the pot! Pair them with any meal, and you’re in for a treat—my family can never get enough of these!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend Yukon Gold for their buttery texture. Russets work too, but they can be starchier. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, try cauliflower, which mashes well and has a mild flavor.
Garlic: Roasting whole garlic gives a sweet, mild flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon per head), but roasted garlic is so much better!
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to to control seasoning. For a dairy-free version, try olive oil or vegan butter; they’ll add nice flavor and creaminess.
Milk or Cream: Heavy cream adds richness, but whole milk is a perfect substitute. If you’re looking for something lighter, almond or oat milk works well too. Just heat it before mixing!
How Can You Get the Perfect Creamy Consistency in Mashed Potatoes?
A few simple techniques guarantee creamy mashed potatoes:
- After boiling, drain the potatoes well and let them sit in the pot for a minute to dry out; this prevents them from becoming watery.
- Use a potato masher or ricer for fluffier potatoes. Avoid blenders or food processors, as they can make the potatoes gluey!
- Warm your milk or cream before adding it; this keeps the potatoes hot and helps them absorb better.
- Don’t hesitate to adjust the milk as you mash. Add it slowly to reach your desired creaminess.
Following these steps will ensure your roasted garlic mashed potatoes come out perfectly creamy every time!
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 whole head of garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream (more if needed)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 40 minutes for cooking, making it a total of roughly 55 minutes. You’ll spend some time roasting the garlic while the potatoes cook, so the timing works out perfectly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Garlic:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the whole head of garlic, exposing the cloves. Drizzle it with olive oil, wrap it tightly in foil, and roast it in the oven for about 40 minutes, until the garlic is soft and golden. The smell will be heavenly!
2. Boil the Potatoes:
While the garlic is roasting, place the peeled and chunked potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil, and cook the potatoes until they’re fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—overcooked potatoes can become mushy.
3. Drain and Prepare:
Once the potatoes are done, drain them well and return them to the pot or transfer them to a large bowl. This helps any extra moisture escape before mashing.
4. Mix in the Garlic:
Once the garlic has roasted, squeeze the softened cloves out of their skins into the potatoes. It adds a rich flavor that you won’t want to miss!
5. Add Butter and Milk:
Add 3 tablespoons of butter and the warm milk or cream to the potatoes. You can always add more milk later if you want them creamier.
6. Mash to Your Liking:
Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash everything together until smooth and creamy. Taste and add more milk if you prefer a different texture. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste—this is where the magic happens!
7. Sauté Garlic Cloves:
In a small pan, melt the final tablespoon of butter. Add a few peeled garlic cloves to the pan and sauté them gently until golden and fragrant—it adds a special touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon the mashed potatoes into a serving bowl, drizzle the garlic butter on top, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and rosemary if using. Serve hot, and enjoy the rich, flavorful roasted garlic mashed potatoes!
This dish pairs perfectly with roasted meats or hearty casseroles and is sure to become a family favorite!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, while Yukon Gold potatoes offer a creamy texture, you can also use Russet potatoes. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, cauliflower can be mashed similarly for a low-carb version!
How Do I Store Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore their creamy texture. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance! Make them a day ahead and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk to maintain moisture.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?
These mashed potatoes make a great side dish for roasted meats, poultry, or hearty casseroles. Garnish with fresh herbs, or try topping them with sautéed garlic or crispy onions for extra flavor!