These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are creamy and full of flavor. The sweet, soft garlic adds a lovely twist that makes them extra special.
Whenever I make these, I can’t resist sneaking a spoonful before serving. They’re just so good! Pair them with your favorite main dish, and you’ve got a winner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for mashing due to their high starch content. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use Yukon Gold potatoes. They add a bit of buttery flavor and creaminess.
Garlic: Roasted garlic gives a sweet, mellow flavor. If you want a more intense garlic taste, feel free to use more than one bulb! You can also use garlic powder in a pinch, but it won’t have the same rich flavor.
Butter & Cream: I recommend unsalted butter for better control over saltiness. If you’re lactose intolerant, use olive oil instead of butter and a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk in place of cream.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have parsley, try chives or green onions for a nice touch.
How Do You Get Creamy Mashed Potatoes Every Time?
The key to creamy mashed potatoes is how you handle them after cooking. Here’s how to ensure they turn out perfect:
- Use the right potatoes; russets or Yukon Golds work best.
- Don’t overmash. For a creamy texture, stop mashing as soon as there are no lumps.
- Always incorporate warm liquids. Cold milk or cream can make them gummy. Warm them in the microwave before adding.
- Season gradually. Taste as you go when adding salt and pepper, so you reach the perfect balance.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have smooth and delectable mashed potatoes every time!
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 whole bulb garlic
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream, warmed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 1 hour total, including the time to roast the garlic and boil the potatoes. Don’t worry; it’s all hands-off cooking while the garlic roasts!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Garlic:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the whole bulb of garlic and cut the top off, exposing the cloves inside. Drizzle it with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, wrap it in aluminum foil, and pop it in the oven! Let it roast for about 40 minutes until the cloves are soft and golden.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
While the garlic is roasting, place your peeled and chopped potatoes into a large pot. Fill it with salted cold water, enough to cover the potatoes completely. Bring the pot to a boil and let the potatoes cook until they’re tender when pierced with a fork, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
3. Drain and Combine:
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot or transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Be careful of steam! Now, it’s time to add the roasted garlic. When it’s cool enough to handle, squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves from their skins into the potatoes.
4. Mash to Perfection:
Now add the softened butter, warm milk or cream, and a drizzle of olive oil (about 1 tablespoon). Mash everything together using a potato masher or electric mixer until your desired consistency is reached. Creamy is the name of the game!
5. Season and Serve:
Don’t forget to season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything well to combine. Once ready, transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and for an elegant touch, drizzle a bit more olive oil on top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and toss in a few whole roasted garlic cloves for garnish.
6. Enjoy:
Serve these delicious roasted garlic mashed potatoes warm as a perfect side dish to your meal. They’re creamy, flavorful, and sure to impress!
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful roasted garlic mashed potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While russet potatoes are perfect for mashing due to their starchiness, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly creamier and buttery flavor. Just be aware that the texture may vary a little.
How Do I Store Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the texture if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can roast the garlic and prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance. Just reheat them gently on the stove, stirring in a little extra milk or cream to bring them back to life when you’re ready to serve!
Is There a Vegan Option for This Recipe?
Yes! Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use non-dairy milk, like almond or oat milk, in place of the cream. You can also swap out the olive oil for a bit more buttery flavor if desired.
