The Ultimate Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe: Creamy, Flavorful, and Irresistible

Roasted garlic mashed potatoes are a timeless side dish that elevates any meal, from weeknight dinners to festive holiday feasts. This recipe combines the rich, mellow flavor of roasted garlic with creamy, buttery potatoes, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, Rich Flavor: Roasting garlic transforms its sharpness into a sweet, nutty flavor that infuses the potatoes beautifully.
• Creamy Texture: Using the right type of potatoes and dairy ensures a smooth, velvety consistency.
• Versatility: Perfect alongside meats, poultry, or as a standalone vegetarian dish.

Ingredients

• 2 heads of garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Roast the Garlic

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the tops off the garlic heads to expose the cloves.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap in aluminum foil.
4. Roast for 35-40 minutes, until the cloves are soft and golden.
5. Allow to cool, then squeeze the cloves out of their skins and mash into a paste.

Cook the Potatoes

1. Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water.
2. Add a generous pinch of salt.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Drain well and return to the pot.

Combine and Mash

1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm.
2. Add the roasted garlic paste to the potatoes.
3. Gradually pour in the warm cream and butter mixture.
4. Mash until smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Tips for the Best Mashed Potatoes

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes offer a naturally buttery flavor and smooth texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the potatoes can make them gluey. Mash just until smooth.
• Warm Dairy: Adding warm cream and butter helps absorb into the potatoes better, ensuring a creamy consistency.
• Adjust Garlic Intensity: If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, use one head instead of two.

Variations

• Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese for added richness.
• Herb-Infused: Add finely chopped rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and cream alternatives to make this dish vegan-friendly.

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Make-Ahead: Prepare the mashed potatoes up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen if necessary.
• Freezing: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze mashed potatoes for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as above.

Pairing Suggestions

These roasted garlic mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with:

• Roast chicken or turkey
• Grilled or pan-seared steak
• Braised short ribs
• Vegetarian mushroom gravy

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fiber: 3g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

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Elevate your side dish game with these creamy, flavorful roasted garlic mashed potatoes. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.