Craving a side dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor? Let me introduce you to Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, the ultimate comfort food. These mashed potatoes are soft, savory, and simple to make. I’ll guide you step by step through the process, share tips for the creamiest mash, and even throw in some fun variations. Get ready to elevate your meals with this delightful dish!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food Classic: There's nothing quite like the creaminess of mashed potatoes, especially when infused with the rich flavor of roasted garlic.
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses everyday ingredients that are easy to find, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels.
- Versatile Side Dish: Roasted garlic mashed potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes, from roasted meats to vegetarian entrees.
- Quick Preparation: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious side dish without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
To make roasted garlic mashed potatoes, gather these items:
- 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 whole bulb of garlic
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup whole milk (or cream for extra richness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Add-ins
You can enhance your mashed potatoes with these add-ins:
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Grated cheese for extra flavor
- Sour cream for a tangy twist
- Cream cheese for added richness
- Roasted herbs like thyme or rosemary
Suggested Equipment
Use these tools for the best results:
- A sharp knife for cutting potatoes and garlic
- A large pot for boiling potatoes
- A potato masher or hand mixer for mashing
- Aluminum foil for wrapping the garlic
- A serving dish to present your mashed potatoes
These simple ingredients and tools will set you up for a delicious side dish. Enjoy the creamy goodness of roasted garlic mashed potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Garlic
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take a whole bulb of garlic. Use a sharp knife to slice the top off the bulb. This step helps the garlic roast well. Drizzle the exposed cloves with olive oil. Wrap the bulb in aluminum foil to keep it moist. Place it in the oven and roast for 30 to 35 minutes. Check for soft and golden cloves. This roasted garlic adds a sweet flavor to your mashed potatoes.
Cooking the Potatoes
While your garlic roasts, grab 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes. Peel and cube them into even pieces. This ensures they cook uniformly. Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. Turn on the heat and bring it to a boil. Cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. You want them fork-tender. Once they are cooked, drain the potatoes. Return them to the pot to keep them warm.
Combining Ingredients
Now it’s time to mix everything. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and into the pot with the potatoes. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter for creaminess. Pour in 1 cup of whole milk, or cream if you want more richness. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to mash everything together. Keep mashing until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the texture with more milk if needed. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly. Transfer your roasted garlic mashed potatoes to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy this creamy side dish delight!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve Creamy Mashed Potatoes
To make creamy mashed potatoes, start with Yukon Gold potatoes. These potatoes have a smooth texture. Boil them until they are fork-tender. Drain them well to remove excess water. Add the right amount of butter and milk or cream. Use a potato masher or mixer to blend until smooth. If they feel too thick, add more milk slowly. This helps you reach the perfect creamy texture.
Roasting Garlic: Best Practices
Roasting garlic is simple and rewarding. Slice the top off a whole bulb to expose the cloves. Drizzle olive oil over the cut side. Wrap the bulb in aluminum foil. Roast it in a preheated oven at 400°F for 30-35 minutes. The garlic should turn soft and golden. You can squeeze the cloves out easily afterward. Roasted garlic adds a sweet, mellow flavor to your mashed potatoes.
Potatoes: Choosing the Right Variety
Choosing the right potatoes matters for this recipe. Yukon Gold potatoes are best for creamy mashed potatoes. They have a buttery flavor and creamy texture. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets for this dish. Starchy potatoes can turn gummy when mashed. Stick with waxy potatoes to get that creamy finish you desire.
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their creamy texture, but you can also use Russet potatoes for a fluffier result.
- Don’t Rush the Garlic: Roasting garlic until it's golden and soft enhances its sweetness. Make sure to check it towards the end of cooking time to avoid burning.
- Warm Up Your Milk: For creamier mashed potatoes, warm your milk (or cream) before adding it to the potatoes. This helps maintain the temperature of the mash.
- Season Gradually: Start with a small amount of salt and pepper, then taste as you go. It's easier to add more than to fix over-seasoned potatoes.
Variations
Herb-Infused Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
You can easily add fresh herbs to your mashed potatoes. Just chop up some rosemary, thyme, or sage. Add about two tablespoons while mashing the potatoes. This creates a fresh and fragrant taste that pairs well with garlic. You can also mix in herbs like basil or dill for a different flavor. The herbs enhance the dish without overpowering the garlic.
Cheesy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
For cheese lovers, this variation is a must-try. Simply add one cup of shredded cheese while mashing the potatoes. Cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan work great. The cheese melts into the warm potatoes and adds a creamy texture. Adjust the amount based on your taste. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before serving for added flavor.
Vegan Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
If you prefer a vegan option, swap the butter and milk for plant-based choices. Use vegan butter and almond, soy, or oat milk. This keeps the creamy texture while making it dairy-free. The roasted garlic still shines through, giving you that rich taste. You can also add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover roasted garlic mashed potatoes in an airtight container. Make sure to let them cool down first. Place them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them gently. You can use a microwave or a stovetop. If they seem dry, add a splash of milk or cream. Stir well to bring back their creamy texture. Heat until warm, but don’t overdo it.
Freezing Mashed Potatoes
To freeze mashed potatoes, pack them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as you can before sealing. They can stay in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for the best results.
FAQs
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, you can use garlic powder. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove. Garlic powder has a different taste than roasted garlic, but it works in a pinch. If you want that rich, sweet flavor, fresh garlic is best.
What can I substitute for milk?
You can use several options if you want to skip milk. Try chicken broth, vegetable broth, or almond milk. For creaminess, you can also use sour cream or yogurt. Each option brings a unique taste and texture to the dish.
How do I make roasted garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time?
You can make these mashed potatoes ahead of time. Prepare them as usual and let them cool. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat them on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
To make great roasted garlic mashed potatoes, I covered all the key points. We talked about ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned about tasty variations to try and the best ways to store leftovers.
Now, you can enjoy creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes with ease. Remember that cooking is fun, so experiment with your favorite flavors!
