Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are just what you need. This recipe is a long-time favorite of mine because it combines the creaminess of mashed potatoes with the rich, sweet flavor of roasted garlic. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these potatoes always hit the spot and make every meal feel special.

What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to prepare. The aromatic garlic transforms into a delightful spread that infuses each bite with its savory goodness. Trust me, once you serve these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, they’ll become a staple at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for anyone.
• Family-friendly taste: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy texture and delicious flavor.
• Versatile side: These mashed potatoes pair well with almost any main dish—think roasts, chicken, or even a hearty veggie casserole!
• Perfect for meal prep: Make them ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve; they hold up beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to create these tasty Roasted Garlic 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

Feel free to play around with this recipe! It’s flexible enough to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add some cheese: Mix in your favorite cheese like cheddar or parmesan for an extra creamy experience.
• Herb it up: Toss in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.
• Make it lighter: Substitute half the butter with olive oil or use low-fat milk instead of half and half.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or garlic powder for an extra kick!

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by cutting off the top 1/4 inch of the garlic head. Wrap it in foil after drizzling olive oil over the top. This step is key because roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the garlic, making it soft and spreadable. Bake in an oven preheated to 375 degrees F for about an hour until golden.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Place your quartered red potatoes in a large pot or Dutch oven. Cover them with cold water and add 1 tsp salt before bringing them to a boil. Cooking them until fork-tender ensures that they will mash easily later on, creating that creamy texture we all love.

Step 3: Combine Potatoes and Garlic

Once your potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot along with those beautiful roasted garlic cloves. Squeezing out the cloves from their skins makes adding that sweet garlic flavor so easy!

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Gently warm your half and half along with the butter until melted—this can be done on the stovetop or in the microwave. Pour this mixture over your potatoes and garlic, then add salt and fresh ground pepper to taste. Mash everything together until it reaches a lovely creamy consistency with just a few lumps for texture.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Garnish with fresh herbs and perhaps an extra pat of butter on top before serving. These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are sure to impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a breeze with just a few helpful tips!

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for red potatoes as they have a creamy texture when mashed, giving your dish that desired consistency without being overly starchy.

• Don’t skip the salt in boiling water: Adding salt to your boiling water enhances the flavor of the potatoes from the inside out, ensuring every bite is deliciously seasoned.

• Warm your dairy ingredients: Gently warming the half and half and butter helps them incorporate smoothly into the potatoes, resulting in a creamier consistency and preventing them from cooling down your mash.

• Leave some lumps for texture: If you love that rustic feel, don’t over-mash! Leaving some lumps adds character and makes it feel more homemade, enhancing the overall eating experience.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary or even a sprinkle of cheese to create your unique version of this classic dish. It’s all about making it your own!

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

These creamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile for serving. Here are some ideas to present this delightful side dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or chives adds a vibrant touch and freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
• Extra melted butter: Drizzling additional melted butter over the top before serving creates an inviting sheen and enhances that comforting flavor.
• Crispy shallots: For an unexpected crunch, top with crispy fried shallots. They add texture and a lovely oniony sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: A colorful medley of grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, adding both flavor and nutrition to your meal.
• Roasted Chicken Thighs: Juicy roasted chicken thighs seasoned with herbs make for a hearty main course that complements the creamy comfort of mashed potatoes.
• Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds provide a crisp contrast to the softness of the mashed potatoes while adding a nutty flavor.
• Lentil Salad: A refreshing lentil salad brings protein and fiber to your plate, balancing out the richness of the potatoes while offering a healthy option.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• To keep them fresh, cover the mashed potatoes with plastic wrap before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Store cooled mashed potatoes in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. You may want to add a splash of half-and-half for creaminess.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

Can I make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes vegan?

Absolutely! Simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk instead of half-and-half. They will still be creamy and delicious!

How can I enhance my Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Try adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley for extra flavor. A sprinkle of cheese on top before serving is also a delightful addition!

Can I prepare Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can make them ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the reheating instructions when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes! They’re not only creamy and flavorful but also bring warm comfort to any meal. Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday feast, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every moment spent creating this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts once you’ve tried it!