Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes the ultimate Comfort Food Side Dish with a Flavorful Twist
If you’re a fan of classic mashed potatoes but are looking to elevate your side dish game, then Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes should be your new go-to.
This comfort food classic becomes a holiday dinner staple with the addition of roasted garlic.
Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this potato dish offers a creamy texture and rich flavors that everyone will love.
It’s also a make-ahead side dish, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities.

Why Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a “Must-Try”
Taking the already beloved classic mashed potatoes and enhancing them with roasted garlic makes this dish irresistible.
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not just another side dish; they’re a culinary experience you don’t want to miss.
Here’s why you need to try these creamy potatoes:
- Make-Ahead Convenience: One of the best features of this dish is that it’s a make-ahead side dish. Prepare it in advance and simply reheat before serving, giving you more time to focus on other aspects of your meal.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients like russet potatoes, head garlic, and basic seasonings, this dish is incredibly easy to make. Even the garlic roasting step is straightforward, making it perfect for cooks of all levels.
- Budget-Friendly: This dish utilizes cost-effective ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The use of russet potatoes and head garlic makes it a budget-friendly option without sacrificing flavor or quality.
With these advantages, Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not just a comfort food classic but also a practical, delicious choice for any occasion.

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Ingredients
- Head Garlic: The star that adds a rich, aromatic twist to the dish.
- Russet Potatoes: The starchy base that becomes fluffy and absorbent.
- Salt and Black Pepper: The essential seasonings that bring out the flavors.
- Heavy Cream: Adds a creamy, velvety texture.
- Butter: Provides richness and depth to the creamy potatoes.

Step-By-Step Instructions for Your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Roasting the Garlic
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off a head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 40-45 minutes.
Boiling the Potatoes
- Peel and cube russet potatoes. Boil in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Mashing and Mixing
- Drain potatoes and return to pot. Squeeze in roasted garlic and add butter, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper.
- Mash until smooth. Adjust seasoning and consistency as needed.
Serving
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra butter or herbs.

Recommendations for Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Twist: Add some grated Parmesan for a cheesy variation.
- The Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut milk and vegan butter to make a dairy-free version of this comfort food classic.
- Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Mix in cooked bacon bits, cheddar cheese, and chopped chives for a loaded version that’s a meal in itself.
- Herb-Infused: Incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based cream and butter for a vegan alternative.

Simplified Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Place the Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Transfer to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s sealed tightly, and freeze for up to 1-2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, you can use the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between. Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter to maintain creaminess.

FAQ Section
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, but russet potatoes are ideal for a fluffy texture.
What’s the best way to serve this as a make-ahead side dish?
Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of cream to refresh the texture.
Is this a good option for a holiday dinner staple?
Absolutely, its rich flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for special occasions.

Can I roast the garlic ahead of time?
Yes, roasted garlic can be made a few days in advance and stored in the fridge, making this a convenient make-ahead side dish.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional and depends on your texture preference. Leaving the skin on will give a more rustic feel to the dish.
Other Side Dishes to Try!
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Candied Sweet Potatoes

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Parmesan Garlic Roasted Potatoes

Perfect Pairing with Other Dishes
Steak Stuffed Peppers: The robust flavors of the peppers meld seamlessly with the smooth, creamy texture of the mashed potatoes.

Baked Paprika Chicken Thighs: The spiciness of the paprika and the succulence of the chicken thighs are balanced perfectly by the mashed potatoes’ subtle creaminess.

Honey Fried Chicken: The sweet, crispy delight of honey fried chicken pairs wonderfully, creating a delightful contrast with the soft, savory mashed potatoes.

Marry Me Chicken: The romantic allure and exquisite taste of marry me chicken find a loving companion in the warm, buttery embrace of these mashed potatoes.

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry: Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is your ticket to a fast and yummy dinner! It’s like bringing the best part of the Chinese restaurant right to your own kitchen. And guess what? Making it is as easy as pie!


Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
The ultimate comfort food with our Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes. This rich and creamy side dish takes classic mashed potatoes to the next level by infusing them with the aromatic goodness of roasted garlic. Ideal as a make-ahead side dish or a holiday dinner staple, these creamy potatoes are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 head roasted garlic
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup milk
- 6 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Roast Garlic: Cut off the top of a head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes until soft.
- Boil Potatoes: Peel and cube russet potatoes. Boil in a pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the boiled potatoes and place them back in the pot.
- Add Ingredients: Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into the pot. Add butter, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper.
- Mash Together: Use a potato masher to combine all the ingredients until smooth.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Serve hot, optionally garnished with a pat of butter or some chopped herbs.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 602Total Fat 40gSaturated Fat 25gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 115mgSodium 987mgCarbohydrates 54gFiber 5gSugar 6gProtein 9g