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- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into even-sized cubes - 1 whole head of garlic - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature - 1 cup heavy cream (or milk, for a lighter alternative) - Salt, to taste - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste - 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (for garnish) I love using Yukon Gold potatoes for this dish. They are creamy and buttery. Their texture makes for the best mashed potatoes. You will also need a whole head of garlic. Roasting the garlic adds a sweet and rich flavor. You'll need unsalted butter too. It helps create that smooth, creamy base. Heavy cream is my go-to for richness, but milk works well too. Use it if you want a lighter dish. Don’t forget to add salt and freshly ground black pepper for flavor. Finally, the fresh chives add a pop of color and taste. They make the dish look gourmet and fresh. This mix of ingredients makes roasted garlic mashed potatoes a favorite in my kitchen. You can adjust the salt and pepper to suit your taste. Enjoy crafting this creamy and flavorful dish! {{ingredient_image_2}} - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Take a whole head of garlic and slice off the top. This exposes the cloves. - Drizzle a little olive oil over the cloves and wrap the garlic in aluminum foil. - Place it in the oven and roast for 30-35 minutes. The cloves should become soft and caramelized. - Once done, let it cool for a bit. Squeeze the roasted cloves into a bowl and set aside. - Peel and cut 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes into even cubes. - Put the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. - Add salt to the water to help flavor the potatoes. - Bring the pot to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. - Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes. The potatoes should be fork-tender when done. - Drain the cooked potatoes well and return them to the pot. - Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and free of lumps. - Add the roasted garlic, 4 tablespoons of softened butter, and 1 cup of heavy cream to the mashed potatoes. - Stir everything together until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Adjust the texture by adding more cream if needed. - Taste the mashed potatoes and add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. - Stir again to make sure the seasoning is even. - Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes into a warm serving bowl. - For a final touch, sprinkle chopped chives on top for color and flavor. - Choosing the right potato variety: I love using Yukon Gold potatoes. They have a creamy texture and rich flavor. They mash well and add a buttery taste without needing extra butter. - Achieving the desired creamy texture: To get that smooth texture, mash the potatoes while they are hot. Use a potato masher for a rustic feel or a ricer for an ultra-smooth finish. Add warm heavy cream or milk gradually to reach your perfect creaminess. - Additional seasoning options: Besides salt and pepper, you can try garlic powder or onion powder. For a pop of flavor, add a splash of lemon juice. A pinch of nutmeg also gives a warm, spicy note. - Alternative ingredients for variations: You can mix in sour cream for tang. Cream cheese adds richness. For a vegan version, use olive oil and coconut milk to keep it creamy and delicious. - Serving style: When serving, use a warm bowl. Create a well in the center and fill it with a drizzle of olive oil or melted butter. This makes the dish look inviting. - Garnishing ideas: Fresh chives add color and a mild onion flavor. You can also sprinkle some crispy bacon bits or fried onions for crunch. A few sprigs of parsley can brighten the dish. Pro Tips Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: Their creamy texture and buttery flavor make them ideal for mashed potatoes. Don't Over-Mash: Over-mashing can make potatoes gummy. Mash just until smooth for the best texture. Warm Your Cream: Heating the cream or milk before adding it to the potatoes helps maintain the temperature and creates a creamier consistency. Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Always taste and adjust the salt and pepper in small increments to achieve the perfect balance. {{image_4}} If you want to make roasted garlic mashed potatoes vegan, you can swap out a few key ingredients. - Use 2 cups of unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream. - Replace the butter with 4 tablespoons of vegan butter. This change keeps the dish creamy without dairy. You can also explore dairy-free cream options made from nuts or coconut. These alternatives provide a rich flavor and smooth texture. To make your mashed potatoes even more exciting, consider adding herbs and spices. - For a fresh twist, mix in chopped parsley or thyme. - You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle heat. Mixing in other vegetables can create a new taste too. - Try adding roasted cauliflower or carrots for added color and flavor. - Sweet potatoes also work well if you want a sweeter note. Roasted garlic mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with many meats. - Serve them alongside roast chicken or grilled steak for a hearty meal. - They also complement pork chops and lamb beautifully. For side dishes, these mashed potatoes shine next to green beans or a fresh salad. - Consider a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. - A hearty vegetable medley adds color and nutrition to your plate. These variations and pairings will make your roasted garlic mashed potatoes a hit at every meal! To store leftover mashed potatoes, place them in an airtight container. Make sure to cool them first. This helps keep them fresh. The shelf life in the fridge is about 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, use the freezer. For the best results, freeze mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Label the container with the date. Mashed potatoes can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess. Stir often for even heating. Enjoy your tasty dish again! To make mashed potatoes from scratch, follow these basic steps: 1. Prepare the potatoes: Peel and cut them into even cubes. 2. Boil: Place the potatoes in cold water and bring to a boil. 3. Cook: Boil until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. 4. Drain: Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. 5. Mash: Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes until smooth. 6. Mix: Add in your ingredients, like butter and cream, and stir. 7. Season: Taste and add salt and pepper to your liking. Yes, you can use other types of potatoes. - Russet potatoes: They create a fluffier texture. - Red potatoes: They have a waxy texture and stay moist. - Sweet potatoes: They will add a sweet flavor and a beautiful color. Each type brings its own taste and texture. Yukon Gold gives a creamy, buttery flavor, which is why I love using them! If you want a lighter option, you can use: - Milk: Whole milk or 2% work well. - Greek yogurt: It adds creaminess and tang. - Sour cream: This gives a rich flavor and a bit of tang. These substitutes can still keep your mashed potatoes creamy and delicious. Gummy mashed potatoes can happen if you overmix or use the wrong type of potato. - Avoid overmixing: Mix just until smooth. - Use the right potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold. - Don’t add too much liquid: Start with less and add more as needed. Following these tips will help you create the perfect creamy texture without the gumminess. Mashed potatoes can be simple yet delicious. We covered key ingredients like Yukon Gold potatoes and roasted garlic. I shared step-by-step instructions and useful tips for the perfect texture. You can customize flavors and even try dietary alternatives. Storing leftovers is easy with proper tips. Enjoy this classic dish, whether for a family meal or a special occasion. With this guide, you’re set for mashed potato success!

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic and topped with fresh chives.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into even-sized cubes
  • 1 whole head garlic
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or milk, for a lighter alternative)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Roast the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully slice the top off the whole head of garlic, exposing the individual cloves. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the exposed cloves, then wrap the head in aluminum foil. Place it in the oven and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and caramelized. Once done, remove from the oven, allow it to cool slightly, and then squeeze the roasted cloves out of their skins into a bowl. Set aside.
  • Cook the Potatoes: In a large pot, place the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes and cover them with cold water. Season the water liberally with salt to enhance the flavor of the potatoes. Bring the pot to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
  • Drain and Mash: Once cooked, drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes until they reach a smooth consistency, free of lumps.
  • Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted garlic cloves, softened butter, and heavy cream (or milk) to the mashed potatoes. Stir everything together until the mixture is creamy and well combined. If needed, adjust the texture by adding more cream or milk until you achieve your desired consistency.
  • Season to Taste: Taste the mashed potatoes and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Stir again to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
  • Serve: Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes into a warm serving bowl. Finish by sprinkling the chopped chives on top for a vibrant burst of color and flavor.

Notes

For an elegant touch, create a swirl in the mashed potatoes and garnish with extra chives.
Keyword garlic, mashed potatoes, sides