Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side that feels like a warm hug on a plate, these Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are just what you need. This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home, combining the earthy flavors of rosemary with the sweetness of garlic. It’s simple enough to whip up on busy weeknights yet elegant enough to impress your family and friends during holiday gatherings.

The best part? These mashed potatoes are versatile! Whether you’re serving them alongside a juicy roast or enjoying them solo with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, they never fail to bring smiles to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have creamy mashed potatoes ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavor and fluffy texture.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make them ahead of time and reheat for an easy side dish during the week.
• Deliciously flavorful: The infusion of rosemary and garlic takes this classic dish to new heights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For these Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes, you’ll need some simple and wholesome items that come together beautifully. Here’s what to gather:

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus 1 tablespoon for cooking potatoes
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Add cheese: Stir in some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese for an extra creamy twist.
• Try different herbs: Experiment with thyme or chives instead of rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Make it vegan: Substitute the butter and cream with plant-based versions for a dairy-free option.
• Mix in veggies: Fold in some roasted garlic or sautéed spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

How to Make Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Start by placing the potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Adding 1 tablespoon of salt enhances their flavor as they cook. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let them simmer until fork-tender—about 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial; properly cooked potatoes ensure that your mash will be creamy rather than lumpy!

Step 2: Heat the Cream Mixture

While your potatoes are cooking, grab a small saucepan to heat the cream and butter together over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts completely. This warm mixture helps combine seamlessly with your mashed potatoes later, making them wonderfully creamy.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Rosemary

When your cream mixture is warm, it’s time to add those aromatic garlic cloves and fresh rosemary sprigs. Let this steep for about 10 minutes. This process infuses all those delightful flavors into the cream—trust me, it makes all the difference! After steeping, feel free to discard the garlic cloves or mash them into your mixture if you love that garlicky punch.

Step 4: Mash Those Potatoes!

Once your potatoes are ready, drain them well in a colander. Return them back to the pot (this helps any excess moisture evaporate). Use a potato masher, ricer, or hand mixer—whichever you prefer—to mash until smooth and creamy. The goal here is to achieve that perfect texture before adding in our delicious cream mixture.

Step 5: Combine and Season

Now comes the fun part! Gradually pour in your warm cream mixture while mixing until everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget to taste as you go; adjusting seasoning is key!

Step 6: Serve Hot

Finally, serve those glorious Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes hot! Garnish with additional fresh rosemary sprigs or pats of butter if desired. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect mashed potatoes is easier than you might think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes turn out creamy and flavorful every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal because they have a buttery flavor and a creamy texture, making for the perfect mash.
• Don’t skip the salt: Salting the water when cooking the potatoes enhances their flavor. It ensures that the seasoning is absorbed during cooking, resulting in tastier mashed potatoes.
• Infuse patiently: Allowing your garlic and rosemary to steep in warm cream not only brings out their flavors but also creates a beautifully aromatic base for your mash.
• Mash while warm: For the best texture, mash your potatoes while they’re still hot. This helps to prevent them from becoming gummy and ensures a light, fluffy consistency.
• Customize to taste: Feel free to adjust the quantities of garlic or rosemary based on your preference. More garlic will give it a stronger punch, while extra rosemary adds a fragrant touch.

How to Serve Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Presentation can elevate any dish, including these delicious Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Here are some ideas to serve them with style!

Garnishes

• Fresh rosemary sprigs: A simple sprig or two on top adds color and reinforces the dish’s flavor profile.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can add richness and a glossy finish.
• Chive or green onion slices: Chopped chives or green onions provide a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Grilled asparagus: The charred flavor of grilled asparagus complements the creamy texture of mashed potatoes perfectly. Simply toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling until tender.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with the richness of mashed potatoes.
• Lemon herb roasted chicken: This zesty chicken dish balances well with the earthy flavors of rosemary in your mashed potatoes. Marinate chicken pieces in lemon juice, herbs, and garlic for maximum flavor before roasting.
• Garlic butter sautéed green beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic butter bring a lovely burst of freshness to your meal. Their slight crispness contrasts nicely with creamy mashed potatoes.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions at your fingertips, it’s time to whip up this comforting side dish for your next gathering or weeknight dinner! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy their delightful flavors even on your busiest days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Allow them to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best texture, consider freezing in individual portions.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish to reheat in intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

Can I make Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or another non-dairy milk. Just ensure it’s at room temperature when adding it to achieve that creamy texture.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder while mashing. You can also incorporate additional herbs like thyme or sage for variation.

What dishes pair well with Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

These mashed potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or any hearty main course. Their rich flavor complements many meals!

Can I prepare Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes with other types of potatoes?

Yes! While Yukon gold potatoes provide a creamy texture, you can use russet or red potatoes for different flavors. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They bring comfort and warmth to any meal, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to get creative with your seasonings. Happy cooking!