Elevate your side dish game with this Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe. Perfect for holiday dinners or everyday meals, these mashed potatoes are made with roasted garlic, Yukon Gold potatoes, and a touch of heavy cream for extra richness. The addition of fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, and rosemary takes the flavor to the next level. Follow our simple steps to achieve smooth, creamy potatoes every time. This recipe is easy to make, freezer-friendly, and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 head garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, rosemary, or chives)
Instructions
- Roast the Garlic:
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Cut off the tip of the garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, ensuring the oil covers the cuts. Wrap the garlic head in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the cloves are soft. - Cook the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add salt and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well. - Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
Return the potatoes to the pot. Add the butter, cream, and roasted garlic. Cover the pot and let the butter melt. Using a handheld potato masher, mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with a few pats of butter and sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs.
Notes
- Potato Choices: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe. You can leave the skins on for added texture. Russet potatoes are also a good option, but peel them as their skins are thicker.
- Extra Garlic Flavor: For a stronger garlic taste, add more roasted garlic to the mixture.
- Garlic Tip: Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from the bottom to easily push out the garlic.
- Efficiency Tip: Mash the potatoes directly in the pot you boiled them in to reduce dishwashing.
- Texture Tip: Use a handheld potato masher for the best texture. An electric hand mixer can make the potatoes gummy.
- Herb Suggestions: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, chives, or parsley add great flavor.
- Other Recipes: Try variations like mashed sweet potatoes, Instant Pot mashed potatoes, or potato skins.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave at reduced power.
- Freezing: Freeze mashed potatoes in a sturdy container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave at reduced power. Avoid using chicken broth if you plan to freeze the potatoes to prevent ice crystals.
Additional Tips
- For a richer flavor, add a little more butter or cream.
- To make the potatoes even creamier, use a potato ricer.
- Serve as a side dish for holidays or family dinners.
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