There’s something magical about mashed potatoes. They’re the ultimate comfort food—warm, creamy, and perfect for any occasion. But if you’re looking to elevate your standard mashed potatoes, adding roasted garlic is the game-changer you didn’t know you needed. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes bring a rich, savory flavor that turns this classic side dish into a star at any meal.
Imagine scooping a mound of fluffy, buttery potatoes infused with the sweet and nutty flavor of roasted garlic. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, these mashed potatoes will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Let’s dive into how you can master this dish and make it a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Rich and Creamy: Buttermilk adds a tangy richness, while roasted garlic infuses the potatoes with deep, savory flavor.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday spread or a comforting weeknight meal, this side dish complements everything.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to prepare.
- Customizable: Add herbs, cheeses, or even a drizzle of olive oil to make the recipe uniquely yours.
Ingredients for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Here’s everything you need to create the creamiest, most flavorful mashed potatoes.
| Ingredient | 1x Quantity | 2x Quantity | 3x Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roasted garlic | 1 head | 2 heads | 3 heads |
| Russet potatoes | 2 pounds | 4 pounds | 6 pounds |
| Kosher salt | 2 ½ teaspoons | 5 teaspoons | 7 ½ teaspoons |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | 1 teaspoon | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Buttermilk | 1 ½ cups | 3 cups | 4 ½ cups |
| Minced chives | For garnish | For garnish | For garnish |
How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Follow these simple steps to create a dish that will steal the spotlight at any meal.
1. Roast the Garlic
Start by preparing your roasted garlic. Cut off the top of a head of garlic to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes until soft and golden. Let it cool, then squeeze out the roasted garlic paste from the cloves.
2. Prep the Potatoes
Peel and cube the russet potatoes into even chunks to ensure they cook evenly. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add 2 teaspoons of kosher salt to the water.
3. Boil the Potatoes
Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
4. Mash the Potatoes
Use a potato masher or ricer to mash the potatoes until smooth. For extra creamy potatoes, use a hand mixer on low speed.
5. Add the Roasted Garlic
Stir in the roasted garlic paste, black pepper, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of kosher salt.
6. Incorporate the Buttermilk
Gradually add the buttermilk, stirring as you go, until the mashed potatoes reach your desired consistency. You may not need the entire amount, so add it slowly.
7. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with minced chives for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Use the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes because of their high starch content, which creates a fluffy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes can also work for a creamier, denser consistency.
- Don’t Skip Roasting the Garlic: Roasting garlic mellows its flavor, turning it sweet and nutty, which perfectly complements the creamy potatoes.
- Start with Cold Water: Adding the potatoes to cold water ensures they cook evenly and prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Warm the Buttermilk: Slightly warming the buttermilk before adding it to the potatoes helps maintain their creamy texture.
- Avoid Overmixing: Overworking the potatoes can make them gluey, so mix just until everything is combined.
Serving Suggestions for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to inspire your next meal:
- With Roasted Meats: Serve alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or beef tenderloin for a classic pairing.
- Holiday Feasts: Add these mashed potatoes to your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner menu.
- Comfort Food Combos: Pair with meatloaf, fried chicken, or grilled pork chops for a hearty, comforting meal.
- Vegetarian Options: Serve with sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or a vegetarian gravy for a meat-free feast.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 550mg |
Variations of Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
1. Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Stir in ½ cup of shredded Parmesan, cheddar, or Gruyere for an extra layer of richness.
2. Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes
- Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the buttermilk as it warms to infuse the potatoes with herbal flavors.
3. Vegan Mashed Potatoes
- Replace buttermilk with unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream, and use olive oil instead of butter.
4. Bacon-Topped Mashed Potatoes
- Sprinkle crispy, crumbled bacon over the top for a smoky, savory addition.
5. Truffle Mashed Potatoes
- Add a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of truffle salt for a luxurious twist.
FAQs About Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
1. Can I make roasted garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the mashed potatoes up to 1 day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven with a splash of milk or buttermilk.
2. How do I reheat mashed potatoes without drying them out?
Reheat the mashed potatoes on low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of buttermilk or milk to restore their creamy texture.
3. Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes are another excellent choice for mashed potatoes. They create a creamier, slightly denser texture.
4. What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, use whole milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
5. Can I freeze leftover mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes. Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat with additional buttermilk or milk.
6. Can I add other flavors to the roasted garlic mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Add ingredients like grated cheese, caramelized onions, or roasted vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
Bring Comfort to Your Table with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Few side dishes are as versatile and beloved as Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes. They’re the perfect blend of creamy, fluffy, and flavorful, making them the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re preparing a holiday spread or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to elevate your meal.
So what are you waiting for? Grab some potatoes, roast some garlic, and get mashing! Your table (and your taste buds) will thank you.
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Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The Creamiest Side Dish You’ll Ever Make
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Creamy, fluffy, and infused with the rich, nutty flavor of roasted garlic, Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish. Perfect for holiday spreads or cozy weeknight dinners, this easy recipe will become your go-to for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 head roasted garlic (follow a simple roasted garlic recipe if needed)
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk (adjust to desired consistency)
- Minced chives, for garnish
Instructions
1. Roast the Garlic
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off a head of garlic to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30-40 minutes. Once soft and golden, let it cool, then squeeze out the roasted garlic paste from the cloves.
2. Prep the Potatoes
Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into even cubes. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 2 teaspoons of kosher salt to the water.
3. Boil the Potatoes
Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot to steam off excess moisture.
4. Mash the Potatoes
Use a potato masher, ricer, or hand mixer on low speed to mash the potatoes until smooth and lump-free.
5. Add Roasted Garlic and Seasoning
Mix in the roasted garlic paste, black pepper, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
6. Incorporate the Buttermilk
Slowly add the buttermilk, a little at a time, stirring until the mashed potatoes reach your desired creamy consistency.
7. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Garnish with minced chives for a fresh and colorful touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the Texture: If you prefer thicker mashed potatoes, add less buttermilk. For creamier potatoes, add more buttermilk.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the mashed potatoes in advance, store them in the fridge, and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of buttermilk.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix whole milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
- Use the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for fluffy mashed potatoes, but Yukon Golds can be used for a creamier texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Boiling and Mashing
- Cuisine: American
