Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a classic and comforting side dish featuring creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with roasted garlic for an extra layer of flavor. This dish is simple to make but delivers incredible flavor that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, or just a comforting weeknight meal.
These mashed potatoes pair perfectly with a variety of main dishes, from roast chicken and steak to meatloaf and fried chicken. They’re sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 head garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra richness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Roast the Garlic
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the head of garlic, exposing the tops of the cloves.
- Drizzle the garlic with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and wrap it in aluminum foil. Roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden brown. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Cook the Potatoes
- While the garlic roasts, place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot.
3. Mash the Potatoes
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the milk (or cream) and heat until warm, but do not boil.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and add them to the potatoes. Pour the warmed butter and milk mixture over the potatoes and mash with a potato masher or electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
4. Season and Serve
- Stir in the sour cream (if using) and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency with extra milk if needed.
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes yield a creamy texture and buttery flavor, while russet potatoes create a fluffy mash. You can use a combination for the best of both worlds.
- Garlic: Roasting the garlic brings out its natural sweetness and mellow flavor, which works beautifully in mashed potatoes.
- Butter and Milk: Warming the butter and milk before adding them to the potatoes helps keep the mash hot and ensures smooth consistency.
Variations
- Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan for an extra cheesy twist.
- Herb Mashed Potatoes: Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs like chives, thyme, or rosemary for added freshness.
- Vegan Mashed Potatoes: Use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk) to make these mashed potatoes vegan-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can make these mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently with additional milk or butter as needed.
Can I freeze garlic mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a pot, adding extra milk or butter to maintain the creamy texture.
What can I serve with garlic mashed potatoes?
Garlic mashed potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes, including roast chicken, turkey, beef stew, pork chops, grilled vegetables, and meatloaf. They also go wonderfully with sauces like gravy or mushroom sauce.
How can I make these mashed potatoes extra creamy?
For extra creamy mashed potatoes, use heavy cream instead of milk and add an extra tablespoon of butter. You can also use a potato ricer or food mill to achieve an ultra-smooth texture.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a classic side dish that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Roasting the garlic gives these mashed potatoes a mellow, sweet flavor that takes them to the next level. They’re perfect for any meal, from holiday feasts to weeknight dinners, and are always a crowd-pleaser.
Try this simple yet delicious recipe, and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness with your favorite main dishes!
Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe!
