Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Roasted garlic wafts through the kitchen, hinting at the creamy delight that awaits. These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a comforting and indulgent side dish that takes just about an hour to prepare. The secret is in transforming humble red potatoes with the rich, sweet flavor of roasted garlic, providing a beautiful balance in taste and texture.

This recipe is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or when you’re simply craving a creamy side. You can make these potatoes ahead of time; they store well in the fridge and can easily be reheated for convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The roasted garlic brings a rich sweetness that’s completely irresistible.
• Red potatoes yield a creamy mash with delightful texture.
• Simple ingredients combine to create a comforting dish everyone loves.
• Easy to prepare, making it a stress-free option for any meal.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

For the Garlic

• 1 head garlic
• 1 tsp olive oil

For the Potatoes

• 2 pounds red potatoes, washed and cut into quarters
• kosher salt

For the Creaminess

• 6 tablespoons butter
• 3/4 cup half and half

For Seasoning

• fresh ground pepper

Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Garlic: Use garlic powder for a quicker option.
• Red Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes work well too.
• Half and Half: Milk or a plant-based milk can be alternatives.
• Butter: Olive oil can be used for a lighter version.

How to Make It

Follow these steps for perfectly creamy mashed potatoes.

1. Roast the garlic

Cut the top 1/4 inch off of the garlic head. Wrap the garlic in foil and drizzle with olive oil. Close the foil around the garlic and roast in the oven at 375 degrees F for about an hour until very soft and golden.

2. Boil the potatoes

Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot or Dutch oven and cover with cold water. Add 1 tsp salt and bring to a boil. Simmer for 15 minutes or until fork-tender.

3. Drain and combine

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot, along with the roasted garlic cloves.

4. Warm the cream mixture

Gently warm the half and half and butter until the butter is melted (this can be done on the stovetop or in the microwave).

5. Mash and season

Add the warm half and half and melted butter to the pot with the potatoes and garlic. Season with salt and fresh ground pepper. Mash until well combined and creamy, leaving some lumps for texture.

6. Garnish and serve

Garnish with fresh herbs and additional butter if desired, then serve immediately.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the potatoes won’t maintain texture.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk, for about 10 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to roast the garlic until soft for maximum flavor.
• Use room temperature butter for smoother incorporation.
• Don’t over-mash; some lumps add character!
• Adjust seasoning after mashing to achieve your desired flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted chicken or turkey for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside grilled steaks for a hearty dinner.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings and festive occasions.