Description
This recipe for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes combines the rich, caramelized flavor of roasted garlic with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. Perfect as a comforting side dish, it uses simple ingredients to create a smooth, flavorful classic that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
Roasted Garlic
- 1 bulb garlic
- Olive oil for drizzling
Mashed Potato Mix
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
Optional
- 1 tbsp fresh herbs (chopped chives, parsley, or thyme)
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the bulb of garlic to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes until the garlic is soft and caramelized.
- Prepare the Potatoes: While the garlic is roasting, peel the potatoes and cut them into even chunks about 1-2 inches in size to ensure even cooking.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the Potatoes: Once cooked, drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander to remove all excess water.
- Mash the Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot and mash with a potato masher or ricer until smooth and free of lumps.
- Add the Ingredients: Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from the skins directly into the mashed potatoes. Add the unsalted butter and heavy cream (or milk) to the mixture.
- Mix and Season: Stir all ingredients well until fully combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a creamier texture, gradually add more cream or milk until the desired consistency is reached.
- Finish and Serve: Fold in any optional fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or thyme for added flavor. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Choose Yukon Gold potatoes for a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture, or Russet potatoes for fluffier results.
- Roasting the garlic slowly in foil softens it, reducing sharpness and adding sweetness.
- Use unsalted butter to better control seasoning levels.
- Heavy cream will give richer potatoes, while milk is a lighter alternative.
- Adding fresh herbs enhances aroma and freshness but is completely optional.
- Make sure potatoes are cut evenly so they cook consistently.
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftovers can be reheated gently with a splash of milk.