Roasted garlic mashed potatoes are creamy, buttery, and full of flavor. The sweet roasted garlic makes these potatoes extra special, turning a classic side into something amazing!
Whenever I make these, I find myself sneaking spoonfuls right from the bowl. What’s not to love about buttery goodness and a hint of garlic? Perfect with just about any meal! 🥔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Yukon Golds are my favorite for their buttery texture, but Russets work great too. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, try cauliflower for a lighter version!
Garlic: Roasting a whole head of garlic gives this dish a sweet flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon) instead, though it won’t be as rich.
Olive oil: This adds a nice touch but you can switch it out for melted butter for a richer flavor or avocado oil for a healthier fat.
Milk: Whole milk keeps it creamy, but any milk works. For a dairy-free option, almond or coconut milk are great substitutes. Just taste as you go!
Butter: Unsalted is ideal so you can control the saltiness. If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can use vegan butter or olive oil instead.
How Do You Get the Creamiest Mashed Potatoes?
The secret to perfectly creamy mashed potatoes lies in the cooking method and mashing technique. Here are some important steps:
- Cook potatoes until they are very tender. This helps in easily achieving a smooth texture.
- Drain well, then return potatoes to the pot after draining to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
- Use a potato masher or ricer; ricing gives an ultra-smooth finish, while mashing gives a bit of texture.
- Warm milk and room temperature butter blend better, resulting in creamier potatoes.
- Season gradually. Start with salt and pepper, tasting as you mix to achieve your desired flavor.
These tips will help you make mashed potatoes that are soft, fluffy, and packed with flavor every time!
How to Make Delicious Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 whole head of garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warm)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 15 minutes for prep and around 40-45 minutes for cooking and roasting, making the total time about 1 hour. It’s easy to make and will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Garlic:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the head of garlic, exposing the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap the whole head in aluminum foil. Place it in the oven and roast for about 35-40 minutes, until the garlic is soft and golden brown.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
While the garlic is roasting, peel and cut the potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water. This will help flavor your potatoes while they boil.
3. Boil the Potatoes:
Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the water to a boil. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are very tender when pierced with a fork. Once cooked, drain the potatoes well in a colander.
4. Dry the Potatoes:
After draining, return the potatoes to the pot and put it back on low heat for a minute or two. This helps any extra moisture to evaporate, making your mashed potatoes fluffier.
5. Add the Roasted Garlic:
Once the garlic is done roasting, squeeze the softened cloves out of their skins and into the pot with the potatoes. Be careful; they will be hot!
6. Mix in Milk and Butter:
Add the room temperature butter and the warmed milk to the potatoes and garlic. This will help the butter melt and mix in better.
7. Mash it Up:
Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash everything together until smooth and creamy. If you find it a little thick, add more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
8. Season to Taste:
Finally, season your mashed potatoes with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste them and adjust the seasoning as needed for the best flavor!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the roasted garlic mashed potatoes warm, and if you like, drizzle a little melted butter on top. Enjoy this rich and creamy side dish with your favorite meals!
These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are popular choices, you can use red potatoes or even purple potatoes for a unique look and flavor. Just keep in mind that different potatoes will yield varying textures, so choose based on your preference!
Can I Make These Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring to achieve a creamy consistency again.
How Do I Store Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to store them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to portion them appropriately and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make these roasted garlic mashed potatoes vegan, simply substitute the butter with your favorite plant-based butter and the whole milk with almond, soy, or oat milk. They’ll still be delicious!
