Description

Nothing beats the comforting warmth of creamy mashed potatoes—especially when you add the rich, nutty sweetness of roasted garlic. This creamy roasted garlic red mashed potatoes recipe elevates a classic dish with velvety textures, subtle garlic undertones, and just the right balance of buttery richness. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress with its simplicity and flavor-packed results.

Ingredients

1 large head of garlic (for roasting)
1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
2 pounds red potatoes, washed and quartered (skins on for texture)
1 teaspoon kosher salt (for boiling potatoes, plus more to taste)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
¾ cup half-and-half, warmed
Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: Finely chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Peel away most of the papery outer skin from the garlic head, leaving the cloves attached.
Slice about ¼ inch off the top of the garlic head to expose the tops of the cloves.
Drizzle the exposed cloves with olive oil, wrap the garlic in foil, and place it in a small baking dish.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden.
Let the roasted garlic cool slightly, then squeeze the soft cloves out of their skins and mash into a smooth paste. Set aside.

2. Cook the Potatoes

Place the quartered red potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.
Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot to steam dry for 1–2 minutes.

3. Mash the Potatoes

Add the roasted garlic paste, 4 tablespoons of butter, and the warmed half-and-half to the pot with the potatoes.
Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
Season with additional salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste.

4. Serve and Garnish

Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl.
Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle over the top for extra richness.
Garnish with finely chopped fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Roasting the Garlic: Don’t skip roasting the garlic! This step transforms the garlic into a sweet, mellow paste that adds incredible depth to the dish.
Keep the Skins On: Leaving the skins on the red potatoes adds texture and nutrients while reducing prep time.
Warmed Half-and-Half: Using warmed half-and-half prevents the potatoes from cooling too quickly and ensures a creamy consistency.
Add-Ins: Want to customize? Stir in shredded Parmesan cheese, crispy bacon bits, or caramelized onions for an extra flavor boost.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Boil and Roast
Cuisine: American