Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that can elevate any meal, look no further than these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes. This recipe is a family favorite in my home, and for good reason! The rich flavor of roasted garlic combined with creamy potatoes creates a dish that’s not just delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, these mashed potatoes are the perfect sidekick to any main course.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up something that feels like a warm hug on your plate. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for those special occasions when you want to spend more time with your loved ones instead of in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With only a handful of ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves creamy mashed potatoes—especially when they’re infused with roasted garlic!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance and simply reheat before serving for stress-free entertaining.
• Delicious Flavor: The sweet, mellow taste of roasted garlic takes standard mashed potatoes to the next level.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to make these delightful Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes. You’ll find that everything is easy to find and perfect for creating that creamy, garlicky goodness!

For the Potatoes:

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

For the Creaminess:

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

Variations

This Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

• Add Cheese: Mix in some grated parmesan or cheddar for an extra cheesy twist.
• Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like chives or rosemary for added flavor.
• Vegan Option: Substitute butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk instead of half and half.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by roasting the garlic, as this brings out its natural sweetness. Cut off the top 1/4 inch of the garlic head and wrap it in foil after drizzling it with olive oil. Roast it in an oven preheated to 375 degrees F for about an hour. When it’s done, the garlic will be soft and golden. Squeezing out those sweet cloves from their skins is one of the best parts!

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Next, place your quartered red potatoes into a large pot or Dutch oven and cover them with cold water. Add salt—this helps season the potatoes as they cook! Bring everything to a boil and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until they’re fork-tender. This step ensures your potatoes are perfectly cooked and fluffy.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your potatoes are ready, drain them well and return them back into the pot along with those lovely roasted garlic cloves. The warmth from the pot will help meld all those flavors together beautifully.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Now it’s time to make these mashed potatoes rich and creamy! Gently warm your butter and half-and-half until the butter melts—this can be done on the stovetop or in the microwave. Pour this luscious mixture over your potatoes and garlic, then add salt and fresh ground pepper to taste. Mash until everything is well combined yet still has some delightful lumps for texture.

Step 5: Serve with Love

Finally, garnish your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes with fresh herbs and maybe even a little extra butter if you’re feeling indulgent! Serve them warm alongside your favorite main dishes, and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Enjoy making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes—they’re sure to become a staple at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect batch of mashed potatoes can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll take your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes to the next level!

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for red potatoes or Yukon golds as they have a creamy texture that holds up well when mashed, resulting in a delightful mouthfeel.
• Don’t rush the roasting: Allowing the garlic to roast slowly enhances its sweetness and mellows out its sharpness. This step is crucial for achieving that rich flavor you’ll love.
• Warm your dairy: Gently warming the half and half and butter before adding them to your potatoes helps to keep everything hot and ensures a smoother blend, helping to create that dreamy consistency.
• Mash by hand: Using a potato masher instead of an electric mixer gives you more control over the texture. This way, you can leave some lumps for added character and rustic charm.
• Taste as you go: Adjusting salt and seasoning throughout the process allows you to customize the flavor perfectly. Remember, every potato may absorb seasoning differently!

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Serving Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is all about presentation and pairing them with complementary flavors. Let’s explore some delightful ways to serve this comforting dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped chives or parsley add a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish beautifully.
• Extra butter: A dollop of melted butter on top gives an indulgent finish that enhances both flavor and appearance.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil adds richness and a sophisticated touch.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned with herbs complement the creamy potatoes perfectly, making for a balanced meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted seasonal vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini adds crunch and nutrients alongside your mashed potatoes.
• Green Salad: A refreshing green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can provide a crisp contrast to the richness of the potatoes.
• Baked Salmon: The flaky texture of baked salmon pairs wonderfully with the creamy potatoes while delivering heart-healthy omega-3s.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes will surely be a hit at any meal! Enjoy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, making your dinner planning a breeze. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat these delicious potatoes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them into an airtight container.
• They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.

Freezing

• Portion the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Place the mashed potatoes in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of half and half or milk to bring back their creamy texture.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
• Add extra butter or seasonings as needed for flavor.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes that you might find helpful!

Can I use regular potatoes instead of red potatoes for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! While red potatoes give a creamy texture, you can use Yukon Gold or any other variety. Just ensure they’re cooked until fork-tender for the best results.

How do I make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes vegan?

To make this recipe vegan-friendly, simply substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut cream instead of half and half.

What is the best way to store Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

After cooling them completely, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in portioned bags.

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

The total cook time is about 75 minutes—1 hour for roasting garlic and about 15 minutes for boiling potatoes until tender.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes brings warmth and joy to your table! Not only are they incredibly flavorful and comforting, but they’re also versatile enough to complement any meal. Enjoy making this dish as much as I enjoy sharing it with you. Happy cooking!