Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. This creamy side dish combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic and buttery potatoes, making it a delightful addition to your meal. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply enjoying a weeknight family meal, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress. Their smooth texture and savory taste make them a standout choice for any main course.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- For Garnish
- How to Make Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic
- Step 1: Roast Garlic
- Step 2: Prepare Mashed Potatoes
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Step 4: Serve Your Dish
- How to Serve Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic
- Pair with Proteins
- Enhance with Toppings
- Use in Casseroles
- How to Perfect Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic
- Best Side Dishes for Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic
- Reheating Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of potatoes for mashed potatoes with roasted garlic?
- How do I make vegan mashed potatoes with roasted garlic?
- Can I prepare mashed potatoes with roasted garlic ahead of time?
- What should I serve with mashed potatoes with roasted garlic?
- How do I enhance the flavor of my mashed potatoes?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The addition of roasted garlic elevates the classic mashed potatoes, adding depth and warmth.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet delivers gourmet results.
- Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for pairing with meats, poultry, or vegetarian dishes, making it suitable for various meals.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic are loved by both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at your table will enjoy them.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs while maintaining that delicious flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the necessary tools before starting the recipe. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating that perfect batch of mashed potatoes.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Potato masher
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for boiling potatoes evenly without overcrowding.
- Potato masher: Ensures a creamy texture without lumps in your mashed potatoes.
- Baking sheet: Used for roasting garlic efficiently in the oven.
Ingredients
Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic are creamy and flavorful, with a smooth finish and rich texture. It’s an easy-to-make side dish to accompany any main course and a great side for a special occasion or holiday. Made with simple ingredients found in any pantry!
Main Ingredients
- 2 heads garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for serving)
- 3 pounds Russet potatoes (or use Golden Yukon (peeled and quartered))
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
- 4 tablespoons butter (salted)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons fresh thyme
- black pepper (freshly ground)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic
Step 1: Roast Garlic
- Preheat oven to 400 F.
- Slice off the top portion of the garlic heads and scrape out loose leaves.
- Place garlic heads on a piece of foil, sprinkle the exposed garlic cloves with olive oil. Wrap with foil.
- Roast for about 45 minutes in the preheated oven at 400 F.
- Once the garlic is cool, squeeze out the garlic cloves into a bowl.
- Pour 3 tablespoons of olive oil into a small bowl and add squeezed-out garlic cloves to combine.
Step 2: Prepare Mashed Potatoes
- While roasting the garlic, peel the potatoes and slice them into quarters.
- Add peeled and sliced potatoes to a large pot filled with cold water (the water should sit 1 or 2 inches above the potatoes).
- Bring water to boil over high heat. Boil for about 15-20 minutes or until easily pierced with a fork; do not overboil.
- Drain all water thoroughly; this step is crucial for perfect mashed potatoes.
- Transfer drained potatoes into a large mixing bowl and mash them using your preferred mashing tool.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- In the same empty pot used for boiling, add heavy cream on low-medium heat.
- Return hot mashed potatoes back into this pot along with shredded Parmesan cheese and butter; add salt to taste.
- Mix everything well over low-medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until cheese is absorbed and desired consistency is achieved.
Step 4: Serve Your Dish
- Serve warm or hot by swirling olive oil from the bowl with roasted garlic or melted salted butter into the mashed potatoes.
- Top generously with roasted garlic cloves.
- Finish off with fresh thyme and freshly ground black pepper; add more salt if desired.
Now you have delicious Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic ready to impress at your next meal! Enjoy!
How to Serve Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic
Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic are a delightful side dish that can enhance any meal. Here are some creative ways to serve this creamy and flavorful dish.
Pair with Proteins
- Grilled Chicken: The savory notes of roasted garlic complement the juicy flavors of grilled chicken perfectly.
- Roast Beef: These mashed potatoes can balance the richness of roast beef, making for a comforting meal.
- Baked Salmon: The creamy texture of the potatoes pairs well with the flaky fish, adding depth to your plate.
Enhance with Toppings
- Chopped Chives: Sprinkle fresh chives on top for a burst of color and mild onion flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melted cheddar adds a sharp contrast that brings extra richness to each bite.
- Crispy Bacon Bits: For a crunchy texture, add crispy bacon bits on top, elevating the flavor profile.
Use in Casseroles
- Shepherd’s Pie: Layer your mashed potatoes over seasoned ground meat and vegetables for a hearty dish.
- Potato Gratin: Spread your mashed potatoes in place of traditional layers for a creamy twist on classic gratin.
How to Perfect Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic
To achieve the best Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Starchy Potatoes: Opt for Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, as they create the creamiest texture when mashed.
- Warm Ingredients: Warm heavy cream and butter before mixing them into the potatoes for better absorption and creaminess.
- Mix Gently: Be careful not to overmix; this can lead to gummy potatoes. Mix just until everything is combined.
- Taste Before Serving: Always taste your mashed potatoes and adjust salt or garlic levels as needed for the perfect flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic
Complementing your Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic is easy when you choose the right side dishes. Here are some great options that pair well.
- Steamed Green Beans: Their crispness adds a refreshing contrast to creamy potatoes.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges bring out nutty flavors that work well together.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots add a lovely sweetness that balances savory dishes.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw provides crunch and acidity, lightening up rich meals.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the earthy flavors in the mashed potatoes beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread is perfect for scooping up those delicious mashed potatoes!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.
- Overcooking the potatoes: Boiling the potatoes for too long can lead to a watery texture. Aim for 15-20 minutes until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Not draining well: Failing to drain the potatoes properly can result in soupy mashed potatoes. Make sure to drain them thoroughly after boiling.
- Using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream or butter can cool down your mashed potatoes. Use warmed ingredients for a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Skipping seasoning: Under-seasoned potatoes lack flavor. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper levels before serving.
- Ignoring texture preferences: Some like their mashed potatoes smooth, while others prefer them chunky. Adjust your mashing technique accordingly to suit your taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between, until warm throughout.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of cream or milk, heat over low, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of potatoes for mashed potatoes with roasted garlic?
Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or even red potatoes if you prefer. Each type will give a slightly different flavor and texture.
How do I make vegan mashed potatoes with roasted garlic?
To make this dish vegan, substitute heavy cream with almond milk or coconut milk and replace butter with vegan margarine.
Can I prepare mashed potatoes with roasted garlic ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to reheat.
What should I serve with mashed potatoes with roasted garlic?
These flavorful mashed potatoes pair well with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or any hearty main dish.
How do I enhance the flavor of my mashed potatoes?
Consider adding more herbs like rosemary or chives, or mix in some cream cheese or sour cream for extra richness.
Final Thoughts
Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic are not only creamy and delicious but also versatile enough for any meal. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or cheeses! Give it a try and elevate your side dish game!
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Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic are the epitome of comfort food, combining the creamy texture of perfectly mashed potatoes with the rich, savory taste of roasted garlic. This side dish is ideal for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a holiday or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner. With its smooth consistency and indulgent flavor, this recipe promises to elevate your meals and impress everyone at the table. Easy to prepare and highly versatile, these mashed potatoes can complement a range of main dishes, from roasted meats to vegetarian options. Plus, the recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences. Get ready to enjoy a classic favorite that will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 2 heads garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting)
- 3 pounds Russet potatoes (or use Golden Yukon)
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
- 4 tablespoons butter (salted)
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh thyme and parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the tops of the garlic heads and wrap them in foil with olive oil. Roast for about 45 minutes.
- While the garlic roasts, peel and quarter the potatoes. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes thoroughly and mash them in a mixing bowl.
- In the empty pot, warm heavy cream over low-medium heat. Add mashed potatoes back in along with Parmesan cheese, butter, salt, and mix until creamy.
- Serve warm topped with roasted garlic cloves, fresh thyme, and additional seasoning as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking/Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 55mg