Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite
If you’re looking to elevate your mashed potatoes from ordinary to extraordinary, Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are the way to go! This dish combines the creamy goodness of traditional mashed potatoes with the rich, sweet flavor of roasted garlic. It’s a fantastic side that pairs well with almost any main course and is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These mashed potatoes are not only creamy and flavorful, but they also have a delicious depth from the roasted garlic. Plus, roasting the garlic mellows its sharpness, giving you a rich, buttery flavor that makes these potatoes absolutely irresistible. They’re perfect for holiday dinners, cozy family meals, or any time you want to indulge in comfort food.
Ingredient Highlights
Here’s what you’ll need for these delectable Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
- Potatoes: About 2 pounds of Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for creamy texture.
- Garlic: A whole head of garlic will be roasted to add that sweet, rich flavor.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control of the seasoning.
- Cream or Milk: Heavy cream or whole milk gives a rich texture; adjust based on your preference.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for enhancing the flavor.
- Fresh Herbs (optional): Chives or parsley make a lovely garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s dive into how to make these mouthwatering mashed potatoes!
- Roast the Garlic
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off a whole head of garlic, drizzle it with a bit of olive oil, and wrap it in aluminum foil. Roast for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and caramelized. Let it cool slightly before squeezing the garlic out of the skins. - Boil the Potatoes
While the garlic is roasting, peel and cut the potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. - Drain and Mash
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the roasted garlic cloves, butter, and a splash of cream or milk. Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. For a creamier texture, add more cream or milk. - Season to Taste
Taste your mashed potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Mix in any fresh herbs if desired. - Serve Warm
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with additional butter, herbs, or even a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
Tips & Tricks
- Customize the Flavor: Feel free to mix in some cheese, like Parmesan or cheddar, for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make Ahead: These mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time! Just cover and refrigerate, then reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream to loosen them up if needed.
- Texture Preference: For a chunkier texture, mash them less. For ultra-creamy potatoes, use a ricer or food mill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Golds and Russets are ideal, you can experiment with red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little more cream or milk to restore their creaminess.
What can I serve with these mashed potatoes?
These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats, gravies, and even as a base for dishes like shepherd’s pie.
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes Yukon gold or russet
- 1 whole head of garlic
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk warmed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
Roast the garlic:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until soft and fragrant.
Prepare the potatoes:
- While the garlic is roasting, peel and chop the potatoes into evenly-sized chunks.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Cook the potatoes:
- Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain well.
Mash the potatoes:
- In a large bowl, combine the drained potatoes and softened butter.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and add them to the bowl. Mash until smooth.
Add cream and season:
- Gradually stir in the warmed heavy cream or milk until the desired creaminess is reached.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a game-changer for your dinner table. They bring a rich, savory flavor that elevates any meal. So go ahead, whip up this easy and delicious recipe, and enjoy the creamy comfort of homemade mashed potatoes. Don’t forget to leave a comment about how you liked them!
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