Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a cozy side dish that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not just any mashed potatoes; they are creamy, flavorful, and infused with the sweet richness of roasted garlic. This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Imagine gathering around the table, sharing stories over a steaming bowl of these delicious potatoes—it’s moments like these that make memories!

These mashed potatoes also stand out during special occasions like Thanksgiving or holiday dinners. The comforting aroma fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before dinner is served. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful side dish in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the rich flavors of roasted garlic and creamy potatoes.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them when ready to serve—perfect for meal prep!
• Versatile pairing: These mashed potatoes complement almost any main dish, from roasted vegetables to grilled chicken.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is simple and straightforward. You’ll find that these wholesome ingredients create a deliciously comforting dish.

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 1 head garlic
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 2 pounds red potatoes (washed and cut into quarters)
• kosher salt
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 3/4 cup half and half
• fresh ground pepper

Variations

One of the best things about Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is how flexible they are! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or ingredients to make them your own.

• Add herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate your mashed potatoes with an aromatic touch.
• Cheesy twist: Stir in some grated cheese like cheddar or parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.
• Creamy alternative: Substitute half and half with plant-based milk or nut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Spicy kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy some heat.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by roasting the garlic, which brings out its natural sweetness. Cut off the top 1/4 inch of the garlic head, drizzle it with olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Place it in the oven at 375 degrees F for about an hour. When it’s done, the garlic should be soft and golden. Squeezing out those cloves is so satisfying!

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Next up, we’ll cook our red potatoes! Place them in a large pot or Dutch oven and cover them with cold water. Add a teaspoon of kosher salt and bring everything to a boil. Let them simmer for about 15 minutes or until they’re fork-tender. Cooking them this way ensures they maintain their shape while absorbing all that lovely seasoning.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your potatoes are tender, drain them well and return them to the pot along with those beautifully roasted garlic cloves. This step helps infuse all that garlicky goodness into our mash!

Step 4: Mash It Up

Now it’s time for the creamy part! Gently warm your half and half along with butter until everything melts together—this makes sure it’s nice and smooth when added to the potatoes. Pour this mixture into the pot along with fresh ground pepper and more salt if needed. Mash until everything is combined but keep some lumps for texture!

Step 5: Serve Warm

Finally, garnish your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes with fresh herbs and an extra pat of butter if you’d like! Serve immediately while they’re warm and inviting—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is all about the little details, so here are some tips to ensure your dish is a creamy, flavorful hit!

• Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes are ideal because they have a waxy texture that holds up well when mashed, creating a creamier consistency compared to starchy varieties like russets.

• Don’t rush the roasting: Allow the garlic to roast until it’s golden and soft. This slow process brings out its natural sweetness and mellows the flavor, providing a delicious depth to your mashed potatoes.

• Warm your dairy: Warming the half and half and butter before adding them to the potatoes helps to maintain a smooth texture. Cold ingredients can cool down your mash and make it lumpy.

• Mash gently: For that perfect mix of creamy and chunky, mash your potatoes just enough to incorporate the ingredients. Over-mashing can lead to a gluey texture you want to avoid.

• Taste as you go: Always taste your mashed potatoes before serving. Adjusting salt and pepper ensures that every bite is perfectly seasoned.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes deserve to shine on the dinner table! Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious side dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped chives or parsley add a pop of color and a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the mashed potatoes.
• Extra butter: A small pat of melted butter on top just before serving not only looks inviting but also enhances the creamy goodness.
• Grated cheese: A sprinkle of parmesan or nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free option) brings an extra layer of flavor and richness.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed with olive oil and grilled until tender provide a colorful contrast and lightness to your meal.
• Roasted Chicken: Juicy roasted chicken seasoned with herbs makes for a classic pairing that balances out the creaminess of your mashed potatoes.
• Green Salad: A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness.
• Herb-Crusted Fish: Lightly seasoned fish baked or grilled with fresh herbs offers a healthy protein option that complements the flavors in your mashed potatoes beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to impressing family and friends with your delightful Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! They can be made ahead of time and stored, making them a convenient side dish for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will last for about 3-5 days.
• When storing, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the potatoes to prevent them from drying out.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the mashed potatoes.
• Scoop the cooled potatoes into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of half and half or milk to restore creaminess.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones about Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

Can I make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these mashed potatoes in advance. Simply store them in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I make sure my Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are creamy?

To achieve that creamy texture, gently warm your half and half before adding it to the potatoes. Also, don’t over-mash; leaving some lumps adds to the rustic charm!

What if I don’t have red potatoes?

You can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Each type will give a slightly different flavor and texture but will still be delicious!

Can I substitute butter with something else?

Yes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you could use plant-based butter or olive oil instead. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes! They’re not just a side dish—they’re comfort food at its finest, perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts. Enjoy every creamy bite and feel free to get creative with toppings! Happy cooking!