If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort food that’s creamy, flavorful, and downright irresistible, this Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite. The magic happens with sweet, mellow roasted garlic blending into tender, fluffy potatoes, creating a luscious mash that’s perfect for any meal, from a cozy weeknight dinner to a festive holiday feast. This dish strikes the perfect balance between rich and simple, making it a must-have on your culinary lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of wholesome ingredients is all it takes to whip up this incredible mash. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the earthy potatoes that form the base, to the silky butter and warm milk that bring the creamy texture, and of course, the star—roasted garlic—that infuses the dish with deep, savory warmth.
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes: Choose russets for a fluffy texture or Yukon Gold for a naturally buttery flavor.
- 1 head of garlic: Roasting transforms garlic into a soft, sweet spread that blends perfectly into the potatoes.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to coat the garlic before roasting, helping it caramelize to perfection.
- ½ cup whole milk (warmed): Adds creaminess and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter: Enhances rich flavor and silky smooth texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning, bringing all the flavors together.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to balance the creaminess.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A splash of green color and fresh herbaceous note.
How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of the garlic head just enough to expose the tips of the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, then wrap it tightly in foil. Roasting for 35 to 40 minutes will caramelize and soften the garlic, turning it golden and spreadable, which is the secret ingredient that will elevate your mashed potatoes to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
While the garlic is roasting, peel and chop your potatoes into even chunks to ensure they cook uniformly. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and season with a generous pinch of salt. Bring water to a rolling boil and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. Don’t rush this step—the perfect tenderness makes mashing effortless and smooth.
Step 3: Combine and Mash
Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot over low heat to let any excess moisture evaporate. Then, squeeze the softened roasted garlic cloves out of their skins directly into the potatoes. Add butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning to taste. This step is where everything comes together — creamy texture meets that deep roasted garlic flavor.
How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a delightful pop of color and fresh herby brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, velvety mashed potatoes. You can also experiment with finely chopped chives or a light dusting of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky twist.
Side Dishes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or beef, soaking up sauces and gravies perfectly. For a vegetarian meal, serve alongside sautéed greens or a hearty mushroom stew for a cozy, satisfying plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Give your classic dish a little flair by piping the mashed potatoes with a star tip onto plates or in a casserole dish, then browning the tops under the broiler for a golden crust. Alternatively, swirl in some caramelized onions or sprinkle toasted nuts for added texture and surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent drying out, consider placing a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the mash before sealing the container.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Portion the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little room for expansion. Frozen mashed potatoes can last up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftover mashed potatoes gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir in a splash of milk or a small knob of butter during reheating to restore creaminess and freshness, making them taste just as good as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold and russet potatoes are ideal for their texture, but red potatoes or even fingerlings can work if you prefer. Just expect a difference in creaminess and fluffiness.
What if I don’t have whole milk on hand?
You can substitute whole milk with half-and-half, cream, or even non-dairy alternatives like oat or almond milk. Just keep in mind these substitutions can slightly alter the final flavor and texture.
Is it okay to skip roasting the garlic?
Fresh garlic can be potent and bitey, so roasting is key to mellowing and sweetening its flavor, which is why it’s so crucial in this Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe. If you’re short on time, you can use garlic powder sparingly, but the roasted version is unbeatable.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Replace the butter with vegan butter or olive oil and swap the milk for a plant-based milk like cashew or coconut milk. The roasted garlic will still provide lots of flavor to keep it rich and satisfying.
How can I make the mashed potatoes extra creamy?
Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a naturally buttery texture and add a splash of cream or sour cream to the mash. Also, warming your milk and butter before mixing helps everything incorporate smoothly.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a true celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a luxurious dish that brings warmth, comfort, and joy to your table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or impressing guests, it’s sure to become a cherished classic. Dive in and enjoy every creamy, 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
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe features creamy, fluffy potatoes combined with the rich, mellow flavor of slow-roasted garlic. Perfect as a comforting side dish, it uses either russet or Yukon Gold potatoes to achieve the ideal texture and flavor, enhanced by butter and warm milk. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for holidays, dinners, or any occasion.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Roasted Garlic
- 1 head of garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Other Ingredients
- ½ cup whole milk, warmed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Roast the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top portion of the garlic head to expose the individual cloves. Drizzle the garlic with olive oil and wrap it tightly in foil. Place it in the oven and roast for 35–40 minutes until the cloves are soft, golden, and fragrant.
- Cook the Potatoes: While the garlic is roasting, place the peeled and cut potatoes into a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and cook the potatoes for 15–20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
- Drain and Prepare Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. This helps evaporate any excess moisture, ensuring a fluffy texture when mashed.
- Add Roasted Garlic and Seasonings: Once the garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze the soft roasted cloves out of their skins and add them directly to the potatoes. Add the butter, warm milk, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
- Mash the Potatoes: Using a potato masher or electric mixer, mash everything together until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm as a delicious, comforting side dish.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of cream or sour cream during mashing.
- Yukon Gold potatoes provide a naturally buttery flavor, while russets produce a fluffier texture—choose based on your preference.
- Ensure the milk is warmed before adding to keep the potatoes hot and absorb the liquids better.
- Roasted garlic adds a sweeter, milder flavor compared to raw garlic, enhancing the dish without overpowering it.
