If you have ever dreamed of a side dish that combines comforting creaminess with the deep, mellow flavors of garlic, then this Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe is absolutely made for you. It transforms simple Yukon Gold potatoes and a head of garlic into a velvety, luscious mash that tastes like a warm hug on a plate. Roasting the garlic softens its bite and enhances its natural sweetness, which melts seamlessly into the potatoes for a dish that’s irresistibly rich and fragrant. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings out the best in one of America’s favorite comfort foods with a wonderful garlicky twist you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe stand out is how a handful of straightforward, everyday ingredients come together to create something extraordinary. Each item has a specific role in developing texture, flavor, and richness, making the end result truly exceptional.
- Yukon Gold potatoes (2 pounds, peeled and cut into chunks): The perfect potato for this mash thanks to their creamy texture and buttery flavor.
- Whole head of garlic (1): Roasting this unlocks a soft, sweet garlic taste that elevates the entire dish.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to coat the garlic for roasting, helping it caramelize beautifully.
- Whole milk (½ cup, warmed): Adds moisture and smoothness, ensuring the potatoes mash easily.
- Heavy cream (¼ cup, warmed): Brings luscious richness and a silky finish to the potatoes.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, room temperature): Infuses creaminess and a subtle depth of flavor without overpowering.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a pop of color to the finished dish.
How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms, slice off the top of your garlic head to expose the cloves underneath—this allows the flavors to intensify as they roast. Drizzle the exposed garlic with olive oil, wrap it tightly in foil to trap the steam, and pop it in the oven. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes until the cloves are soft, golden, and smell heavenly. When cool enough to handle, squeeze the garlic out of its skins and mash into a fragrant paste. This roasted garlic paste is what infuses the entire recipe with its signature flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
While the garlic roasts, prepare the Yukon Gold potatoes. Place the peeled and chopped potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water — this is important for seasoning the potatoes inside and out. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain well and return the potatoes to the pot, still warm and ready to be mashed.
Step 3: Mash and Combine
Add the roasted garlic paste, room-temperature butter, warm milk, and warmed cream to the hot potatoes. Mash everything together thoroughly using a potato masher or a fork until the texture is incredibly smooth and creamy. If the mixture feels too thick, gradually add more milk until you reach your perfect consistency. Don’t forget to season generously with salt and black pepper. Taste as you go to make sure your seasoning is just right — this last touch makes all the difference.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Transfer your beautiful roasted garlic mashed potatoes to a serving dish, then sprinkle chopped fresh chives or parsley on top for a delightful splash of color and subtle herbal note. Serve the potatoes warm, and prepare for the compliments to roll in.
How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chives or parsley add a wonderful freshness that cuts through the richness and gives your potatoes a professional, polished look. A few extra pats of butter melting on top right before serving can also make the dish even more decadent. For a little extra flair, sprinkle some crispy fried shallots, grated parmesan, or even a light drizzle of truffle oil to delight your guests.
Side Dishes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken, beef, or turkey — it’s a classic side that complements bold flavors. It also goes wonderfully with sautéed greens or roasted vegetables for a comforting vegetarian meal. This dish is a holiday and weeknight dinner hero that fits seamlessly with almost every menu.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try piping the mashed potatoes on a platter using a large star tip and then broiling them briefly to create crispy peaks. You can also transform them into little savory cakes, pan-frying spoonfuls until golden brown on the outside and creamy within. These creative presentations turn this humble side into a stunning centerpiece everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Before storing, let the potatoes cool down to room temperature to prevent condensation, which can make them watery.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover mashed potatoes for up to two months. Scoop them into a freezer-safe bag or container, pressing out excess air. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, though some people prefer reheating directly from frozen over low heat.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream and a small extra pat of butter to revive that creamy texture. Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Alternatively, use the microwave at medium power in short bursts, stirring between each to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
While Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because of their creamy texture and buttery flavor, you can use Russet potatoes for a fluffier texture. Just note the mash might be a bit drier, so you may need to add extra milk or cream.
Is it okay to skip roasting the garlic?
Roasting garlic is key to this recipe because it mellows the harsh raw flavor and adds sweetness. If you skip roasting, the garlic will be stronger and more pungent, which can overpower the potatoes.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute dairy milk and cream with their plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk, and swap butter for a vegan margarine or olive oil to achieve a creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free.
How do I know when the potatoes are cooked perfectly?
Potatoes are ready when a fork slides easily into the chunks without resistance. They should be tender but not falling apart, which ensures a smooth, creamy mash without lumps.
What is the best way to reheat the mashed potatoes without drying them out?
Reheat them slowly over low heat on the stove, stirring in small amounts of milk or cream to maintain moisture. Microwaving in short intervals with stirring also works well to avoid drying.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe is one of those cherished dishes that turns simple ingredients into something truly special. It’s creamy, richly flavored, and comforting — perfect for bringing people together around the table. I hope you give this recipe a try and discover just how delightfully easy it is to upgrade your mashed potatoes to something unforgettable. Enjoy every luscious, garlicky bite!
Print
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting and Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This recipe for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a rich, creamy side dish perfect for holiday meals or comforting everyday dinners. Yukon Gold potatoes are boiled until tender, then combined with smooth roasted garlic, warm milk, cream, and butter for a luscious texture and deep flavor. Garnished with fresh chives or parsley, these mashed potatoes offer a flavorful twist on a traditional favorite.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Roasted Garlic
- 1 whole head of garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Dairy
- ½ cup whole milk, warmed
- ¼ cup heavy cream, warmed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
Seasonings & Garnish
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Roast the garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap the garlic head tightly in foil, and roast in the oven for 35–40 minutes until the cloves are soft and golden brown. Remove and let cool slightly before squeezing the roasted garlic out of the skins and mashing it into a smooth paste.
- Boil the potatoes: Place the peeled and chunked Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the potatoes for about 15–20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
- Drain and mash: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot while still hot. Add the roasted garlic paste, room temperature butter, warmed milk, and cream. Mash the mixture until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Add more milk if necessary to achieve the desired texture.
- Season and serve: Season the mashed potatoes generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped fresh chives or parsley if desired. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For an extra-rich variation, substitute some of the milk with sour cream for added tang and creaminess.
- Roasted garlic can be prepared up to a day in advance; store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- If you prefer a thinner consistency, add additional warmed milk gradually while mashing.
- Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred for their creamy texture, but Russet potatoes can be used as an alternative.
