Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
There’s nothing quite like indulging in a comforting plate of Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes after a long day. I remember the first time I made them; it was a chilly winter evening, and the aroma of roasted garlic filled the kitchen, instantly warming my heart and home. I had invited friends over for dinner, and this dish was my secret weapon to impress them. As I stirred the creamy, buttery potatoes, I could almost hear them salivating with anticipation. The richness of the butter and the subtle sweetness of the roasted garlic had everyone coming back for seconds. It’s special moments like these, surrounded by laughter and great food, that make cooking worthwhile.
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
30 mins
30 mins
Medium
350 kcal
4 g
Keto, Gluten-Free
17 g
Large Pot, Food Processor, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Oven, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Peeler, Baking Sheet
Why This Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Hits Different
What’s not to love about Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes? Here are a few reasons that make this dish a standout at any table:
1. A Flavor Explosion
The addition of roasted garlic transforms ordinary mashed potatoes into a flavor-packed delight. Roasting garlic brings out its natural sweetness, mellowing the sharpness to create a rich depth of flavor that complements the creamy texture of the potatoes.
2. Creamy and Dreamy Texture
Using a combination of heavy cream and butter leads to a luxuriously creamy consistency. When you take a forkful, you’ll experience that velvety mouthfeel that makes each bite feel like a warm hug.
3. Versatile Side Dish
Whether you’re serving it alongside a holiday roast or a simple weeknight meal, Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes fit perfectly on any plate. They can elevate any main dish with their rich flavor and comforting nature.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
This dish is a fantastic option for meal prep as it reheats beautifully. You can whip up a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week, making your busy nights feel special.
5. A Crowd Favorite
Let’s be honest: who doesn’t love mashed potatoes? Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are sure to please everyone, from kids to adults. They’re a universal comfort food, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
6. Simple Ingredients, Big Impact
With just a few simple ingredients like Yukon Gold potatoes, butter, and garlic, you can create a masterpiece. The balance of flavors is achieved without any fancy techniques, making it accessible for all home cooks.
Everything You Need for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

The ingredients in Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are simple yet powerful. The combination of Yukon Gold potatoes and roasted garlic creates a comforting side that’s rich in flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that ultimate creamy consistency while the seasoning enhances the overall taste. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 whole garlic heads – This will be roasted to bring out its sweetness.
- 1/2 cup pure olive oil – Used for roasting the garlic and adding flavor.
- Gray sea salt and freshly ground pepper – Essential for seasoning both the garlic and potatoes.
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes – Chosen for their creamy texture when mashed.
- 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature – Adds richness and creaminess.
- 1-2 tablespoons garlic paste, more or less to taste – Enhances the garlic flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream – Provides a luxurious, creamy texture.
- Sea salt, preferably gray sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper – For seasoning to taste.
- 1/2 to 2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil – Adds a beautiful richness and flavor.
Cooking Method for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a delightful process that’s as simple as it is rewarding. From roasting the garlic to fluffing the potatoes, each step is important to perfecting this dish. Here’s how to create this creamy masterpiece:
- Start with the roasted garlic: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Peel the outermost layers of skin off the heads of garlic. Cut off the top one-third of the heads to open the cloves. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe sauté pan over medium heat. Add garlic, cut sides up, and sauté for about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the pan to the oven and roast for 15 minutes. Alternatively, drizzle the cloves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Wrap them in aluminum foil and cook for 30 to 45 minutes, or until soft and golden. Remove from heat and let cool. Pop the garlic cloves from their skins and place them in a food processor along with 1/4 cup olive oil. Puree until smooth; you should have a paste-like consistency.
- For the potatoes: Peel and cube the Yukon Gold potatoes. Put the potatoes in a large saucepan with salted cold water and place in the refrigerator overnight, or for 30 minutes if you’re short on time. Add more salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain well and return to the pot. Over very low heat, stir and mash the potatoes. This low heat will help evaporate any remaining water, making for an even fluffier final product.
- Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until the butter stops foaming and turns a light brown. Add the garlic paste and cook quickly, just to warm it through.
- Add the heavy cream to the mixture, seasoning to taste with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Fold the warm cream mixture into the potatoes with a wooden spoon or large whisk. Take your time with this step to ensure everything incorporates smoothly.
- Add the remaining butter by tablespoons, stirring after each addition, allowing it to melt and blend into the potatoes.
- Finally, stir in the extra-virgin olive oil. This adds a beautiful richness and flavor to the dish.
- Season with more salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.
Things Worth Knowing
- Garlic roasting tips: To ensure even roasting, make sure to cut the garlic heads evenly. This helps release their natural sweetness.
- Potato choice matters: Always opt for Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy and buttery consistency when mashed.
- Temperature control: Keep the mashed potatoes on low heat after mashing to prevent them from becoming gummy.
- Taste as you go: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning as you mix in the cream and butter!
Tips and Tricks about Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Perfecting Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is all about technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out impeccably every time:
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them gently on the stovetop.
- Freezing: You can freeze mashed potatoes, but they might require a little extra cream when reheating to regain their creamy texture.
- Pairing: These mashed potatoes are perfect with roast chicken, grilled vegetables, or your favorite gravy.
- Variations: Try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fresh twist, or incorporate sour cream for extra tang.
- Serving size: This recipe serves about 4 people, but it’s easy to scale up for larger gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas:
- Pair it with: Serve the mashed potatoes alongside succulent roasts, such as beef or chicken, to soak up the juices.
- Make it a meal: These potatoes can even be a meal on their own when paired with a side of steamed veggies.
- Seasonal occasions: They are ideal for winter holidays or family gatherings, bringing warmth and comfort to your table.
- Leftover magic: Use leftovers to create delicious potato cakes for a quick lunch option.
- Garnish: Top with extra roasted garlic or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
- Serve warm: Ensure that the mashed potatoes are served warm; you can keep them in a preheated oven until it’s time to serve.
FAQ
Conclusion
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are truly a comfort food classic that brings warmth to any meal. With their creamy texture and rich flavor, they elevate simple dinners into something extraordinary. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—your family and friends will be asking for seconds and thirds!

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start with the roasted garlic: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Peel the outermost layers of skin off the heads of garlic. Cut off the top one-third of the heads to open the cloves. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe sauté pan over medium heat. Add garlic, cut sides up, and sauté for about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the pan to the oven and roast for 15 minutes. Alternatively, drizzle the cloves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Wrap them in aluminum foil and cook for 30 to 45 minutes, or until soft and golden. Remove from heat and let cool. Pop the garlic cloves from their skins and place them in a food processor along with 1/4 cup olive oil. Puree until smooth; you should have a paste-like consistency.
- For the potatoes: Peel and cube the Yukon Gold potatoes. Put the potatoes in a large saucepan with salted cold water and place in the refrigerator overnight, or for 30 minutes if you’re short on time. Add more salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain well and return to the pot. Over very low heat, stir and mash the potatoes. This low heat will help evaporate any remaining water, making for an even fluffier final product.
- Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until the butter stops foaming and turns a light brown. Add the garlic paste and cook quickly, just to warm it through.
- Add the heavy cream to the mixture, seasoning to taste with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Fold the warm cream mixture into the potatoes with a wooden spoon or large whisk. Take your time with this step to ensure everything incorporates smoothly.
- Add the remaining butter by tablespoons, stirring after each addition, allowing it to melt and blend into the potatoes.
- Finally, stir in the extra-virgin olive oil. This adds a beautiful richness and flavor to the dish.
- Season with more salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.


