Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that warms the heart, look no further than Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes. This dish is a family favorite in my home, and it has a special place at our dinner table. The creamy texture combined with the rich, sweet flavor of roasted garlic makes these mashed potatoes truly irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these mashed potatoes are sure to please everyone.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a side dish that feels fancy yet comforting. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare that even the busiest cooks will find time to whip it up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have these delicious mashed potatoes ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The roasted garlic adds a delightful twist that kids and adults alike will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or a casual weeknight meal, these mashed potatoes fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them ahead of time and simply reheat when needed—saving you precious time during busy meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather what we 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to give your mashed potatoes an exciting twist:

• Add Cheese: Stir in some grated parmesan or cheddar for an extra burst of flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added freshness.
• Creamy Alternatives: Swap out half and half for plant-based milk or cream if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or garlic powder for an added kick!

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by preparing your garlic. Cut off the top 1/4 inch of the garlic head and wrap it in foil. Drizzle a little olive oil over it before sealing up the foil. Roasting at 375 degrees F for about an hour brings out the sweetness of the garlic, making it soft and golden, perfect for mashing into your potatoes.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Next, toss your quartered red potatoes into a large pot or Dutch oven. Cover them with cold water and sprinkle in some kosher salt. Bring everything to a boil before letting it simmer for about 15 minutes or until fork tender. Cooking them slowly helps achieve that perfect creamy texture we all crave in mashed potatoes.

Step 3: Combine Potatoes and Garlic

Once your potatoes are done cooking, drain them and return them to the pot. Now, squeeze out those lovely roasted garlic cloves from their skins directly into the pot along with the potatoes. This step is key because it infuses all that wonderful flavor into your mash.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Gently warm the half and half and butter together until everything is melted—this ensures they mix evenly with your potatoes without cooling them down too much. Pour this mixture into the pot along with salt and fresh ground pepper. Now it’s time to mash! Aim for a creamy consistency while keeping some lumps—it adds character!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

For the grand finale, garnish your beautiful mashed potatoes with fresh herbs or a bit more butter on top if desired. Serve warm alongside your favorite dishes, and get ready for compliments all around!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes can be a delightful experience, especially with these handy tips!

• Choose the right potatoes – Opt for red potatoes as they hold their shape well and create a creamy texture when mashed, making them ideal for this dish.
• Don’t rush the roasting – Allowing the garlic to roast until golden enhances its sweetness and depth of flavor, which is essential for that rich, comforting taste in your mashed potatoes.
• Warm your liquids – Slightly warming the half and half and butter before adding them to the potatoes helps to keep everything creamy and smooth, preventing a cold shock that can make the mash stiff.
• Mash by hand – Using a potato masher instead of an electric mixer allows you to control the texture better; some lumps add character and authenticity to your dish.
• Taste as you go – Always season gradually; tasting along the way ensures that your mashed potatoes are perfectly seasoned without being overly salty.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Serving Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is all about creating an inviting presentation that highlights their creamy goodness. Here are some ideas to elevate your dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs – Sprinkling chopped chives or parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness that beautifully complements the richness of the potatoes.
• Extra butter – A small pat of melted butter drizzled on top creates a luxurious finish that tempts everyone to dig in right away.
• Parmesan cheese (vegan alternative) – For those who enjoy a cheesy flavor, sprinkle some nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan on top for added umami without using dairy.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini roasted with olive oil brings both color and nutrition to your plate.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu Skewers – Adding succulent grilled chicken or marinated tofu skewers introduces protein while balancing out the comforting nature of the mashed potatoes.
• Green Salad with Vinaigrette – A light, crisp salad dressed with vinaigrette adds brightness to your meal, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy potatoes.
• Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus – These green veggies not only enhance your plate visually but also introduce fiber and nutrients that round out your meal perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes will surely impress! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or holiday feasts. You can whip them up in advance and enjoy their creamy goodness whenever you’re ready!

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you notice any excess liquid, give them a good stir before serving.

Freezing

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, leaving some room for expansion.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Warm them gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of half and half or milk to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes!

How can I make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use unsweetened almond milk or another non-dairy milk instead of half and half. The roasted garlic will still add that delicious flavor!

Can I use other types of potatoes for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! While red potatoes give a nice creamy texture, you can also use Yukon golds or russets. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may alter the final taste and texture slightly.

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

The total time includes about 15 minutes of prep and 75 minutes of cooking. So, set aside around 90 minutes to enjoy this comforting dish from start to finish!

What can I serve with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with various dishes! Consider serving them alongside roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or your favorite plant-based protein for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They’re not just a side dish; they’re a heartfelt addition to any meal that brings comfort and warmth. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!