Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that can steal the show at any meal, look no further! Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a family favorite in my home. The rich, buttery flavor combined with the sweet, mellow notes of roasted garlic makes these potatoes absolutely irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

What makes this dish even more special is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip up this creamy delight with just a handful of simple ingredients. Plus, they pair beautifully with so many main dishes – from hearty roasts to casual grilled meats. Trust me, once you try these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have creamy mashed potatoes on your table without any fuss.
• Family-friendly: These potatoes are a hit with both kids and adults alike, making them perfect for any family meal.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare these mashed potatoes ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious flavor: The addition of roasted garlic elevates the traditional mashed potatoes into something truly special.
• Versatile pairing: These mashed potatoes go well with a variety of main dishes, from chicken to beef and beyond.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, you’ll only need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 their flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make them your own with these fun variations:

• Add cheese: Stir in grated parmesan or cheddar for an extra cheesy twist.
• Herb-infused: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or chives for added freshness and flavor.
• Creamy alternative: Swap out half and half for your favorite plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
• Extra veggies: Fold in steamed cauliflower or broccoli for a nutritious boost.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by preparing the garlic. Cut off the top 1/4 inch from the head of garlic. Wrap it tightly in foil and drizzle olive oil over it. This step is essential because roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the garlic, transforming it into a soft spreadable delight. Bake it in an oven preheated to 375 degrees F for about an hour until it’s golden and soft.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

While the garlic is roasting, place your quartered red potatoes in a large pot or Dutch oven. Cover them with cold water and add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Bring everything to a boil and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until fork-tender. Cooking them slowly allows them to absorb water and become fluffy when mashed.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Once your potatoes are tender, drain them well and return them to the pot along with those delicious roasted garlic cloves you’ve prepared earlier. This is where all that wonderful flavor comes together!

Step 4: Creamy Goodness

Gently warm the half and half and butter until the butter melts completely – you can do this on the stovetop or microwave. Pour this mixture into your pot with potatoes and roasted garlic along with salt and pepper. Mash everything together until creamy but still slightly lumpy; this gives character to your mashed potatoes while ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Finally, garnish your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes with fresh herbs or an extra pat of butter if desired. Serve immediately while they’re warm, and watch as everyone heads back for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect batch of roasted garlic mashed potatoes is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you elevate your dish!

• Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes are ideal for this recipe because their creamy texture holds up well when mashed, resulting in a smooth, delicious side dish.

• Don’t rush the roasting: Allowing the garlic to roast until it’s golden and soft enhances its natural sweetness, adding depth to your mashed potatoes that raw garlic simply can’t match.

• Warm your liquids: Gently warming the half and half and butter before adding them to the potato mixture helps them combine more easily, ensuring a creamy consistency without cooling down your mash.

• Mash with care: For perfectly textured mashed potatoes, use a potato masher or ricer instead of an electric mixer. This prevents overworking the potatoes, which can lead to a gluey texture.

• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning gradually! Adding salt and pepper incrementally allows you to achieve that perfect flavor balance tailored to your palate.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

When it comes time to serve your roasted garlic mashed potatoes, presentation can make all the difference. Here are some creative ideas for showcasing this comforting side dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh chives or parsley: Chopped fresh herbs not only add color but also bring a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the mashed potatoes.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle adds a luxurious finish while enhancing the garlic flavor, making each bite even more delightful.
• Shredded cheese: While avoiding animal-derived products, consider using plant-based cheese alternatives for a creamy topping that melts beautifully over warm potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and zucchini tossed with olive oil and herbs makes for a colorful and nutritious complement.
• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers provide a flavorful protein option that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of mashed potatoes.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette offers a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the potatoes.
• Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds add crunch and earthiness, balancing out the softness of roasted garlic mashed potatoes perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, your roasted garlic mashed potatoes will surely be a hit at any dinner table! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prepping! You can easily prepare them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat them to keep that delicious flavor intact.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Scoop the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, divide into individual portions for easy thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of half and half or milk to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

Can I make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these mashed potatoes ahead of time. Just follow the storage instructions above, and you’ll have a delicious side dish ready whenever you need it.

How do I store leftover Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

To store leftovers, let them cool completely and transfer them into an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Can I freeze Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze these mashed potatoes! Scoop them into freezer-safe containers, label them, and they’ll be good for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw them before reheating!

What are some variations for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Feel free to get creative! You can add ingredients like cream cheese for extra creaminess, or mix in herbs like chives or rosemary for added flavor.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Certainly! While red potatoes are great for their creamy texture, you can also use Yukon gold or Russet potatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Each type will give a slightly different texture and flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes! They’re not just a side dish; they’re a warm hug on your plate that’s perfect for any gathering. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday feast, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me! Happy cooking!