Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a creamy, dreamy side dish that can elevate any meal, you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a true comfort food classic. They’re rich and flavorful, perfect for cozy family dinners or special gatherings. The roasted garlic adds a sweet depth that transforms ordinary mashed potatoes into something truly special.

This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to whip up. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight or a festive holiday feast, these mashed potatoes will surely impress your loved ones. Let’s dive into why this recipe has become one of my all-time favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that tastes like it took all day.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenient: You can prepare them in advance and reheat when you’re ready to serve, making your meal planning a breeze.
• Delicious Flavor: The roasted garlic brings an incredible richness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Side Dish: These mashed potatoes pair well with just about any main course, from roasted chicken to grilled veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is as easy as pie! You’ll find these are all simple, wholesome items that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you need:

For the Potatoes

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

For the Creamy Mixture

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ways to mix it up:

• Add Cheese: Stir in grated parmesan or cheddar for an extra cheesy flavor boost.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or chives for added freshness and aroma.
• Vegan Twist: Swap the butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk instead of half and half for a dairy-free version.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or garlic powder for a little kick.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Roasting the garlic is where the magic begins! Cut off the top 1/4 inch of the garlic head, drizzle it with olive oil, wrap it in foil, and roast it at 375 degrees F for about an hour. This process caramelizes the garlic, making it soft and sweet. When done, you can easily squeeze out those golden cloves.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

While your garlic is roasting away, let’s get those potatoes boiling! Place them in a large pot or Dutch oven, cover them with cold water, add 1 teaspoon of salt, and bring everything to a boil. Simmer them for about 15 minutes until they’re fork-tender. This step ensures your potatoes are perfectly cooked for mashing.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your potatoes are drained, return them to the pot along with those delicious roasted garlic cloves. This way, they’ll soak up all that great flavor!

Step 4: Cream It Up

In another bowl or on low heat on the stovetop, gently warm your half and half with the butter until melted. Then pour this creamy mixture into the pot with your potatoes and roasted garlic. Add salt and fresh ground pepper to taste. Mash everything together until combined; remember to keep some lumps for texture!

Step 5: Serve It Warm

To finish off your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, garnish them with fresh herbs or even more butter if you’re feeling indulgent! Serve warm alongside your favorite main dishes – they’re sure to be a hit!

Now that you have this delightful recipe in hand, I hope you’ll enjoy making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes can be a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Choose the right potatoes: Opting for red potatoes gives you a creamy texture and sweet flavor that works perfectly in mashed dishes, making them a favorite for many.
• Don’t rush the roasting: Allowing the garlic to roast slowly at 375°F until golden and soft enhances its sweetness and deepens its flavor, making your mashed potatoes truly irresistible.
• Warm your dairy: Heating the half and half and butter before adding them to the potatoes helps achieve a smooth, creamy consistency, preventing any cooling of your delicious mash.
• Mash to preference: Some enjoy their mashed potatoes completely smooth while others prefer a bit of texture. Mashing just until combined allows you to control how creamy or chunky they turn out.
• Taste as you go: Adjusting salt and pepper after mashing ensures that every bite is perfectly seasoned to your palate. It’s all about finding that delicate balance!

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are delightful on their own but can be beautifully presented alongside other dishes. Here are some ways to elevate this comforting side.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley, chives, or rosemary adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the potatoes.
• Extra butter dollop: A small pat of butter melting on top creates an inviting presentation and enhances the creaminess of each bite.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly ground black pepper not only adds visual contrast but also brings an additional layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: The zesty marinade and smoky flavors from grilled chicken balance perfectly with the creamy mashed potatoes, creating a satisfying meal.
• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini roasted with olive oil and herbs add vibrant colors and textures, complementing the richness of the potatoes beautifully.
• Crispy Baked Tofu: For a plant-based option, baked tofu offers protein with a crispy exterior, pairing well with the soft texture of the mashed potatoes.
• Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A light salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed in vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty nature of mashed potatoes.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes will surely become a cherished part of your meals! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not just a delightful side dish; they also shine when it comes to meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, making your dinner planning smoother and more enjoyable.

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 days.

Freezing

• Portion the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and recipe name.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, let thaw in the fridge overnight or use the microwave on low power.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a pot on low heat, stirring occasionally.
• You can add a splash of half and half or milk to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes!

Can I make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes without butter?

Absolutely! You can substitute butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine for a lighter version that still tastes great.

How do I achieve the perfect texture for my Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

For creamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, mash them while still warm and incorporate warm half and half. This will help maintain a smooth consistency without overworking the potatoes.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

While red potatoes give a lovely texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or even russets if you prefer. Just remember that different types may yield slightly different textures!

How long does it take to prepare Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

The total time is about 90 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep and 75 minutes of cooking. It’s well worth the wait for such delicious flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They’re perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The rich flavor of roasted garlic combined with creamy potatoes creates a comfort food classic that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!