Creamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

A simple twist that makes classic mashed potatoes unforgettable.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 16, 2025

A simple twist that makes classic mashed potatoes unforgettable.

Introduction to Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

For many, mashed potatoes are a comforting classic, but adding roasted garlic elevates this dish to new heights. The Pioneer Woman’s recipe for roasted garlic mashed potatoes is not only deliciously creamy but also full of flavor, making it a standout side dish for any occasion, including Thanksgiving.

Why Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity combined with the depth of flavor that roasted garlic brings. Unlike regular garlic, which can sometimes overpower dishes, roasted garlic is mellow and sweet, adding a richness to the potatoes without the pungency. This makes it an excellent choice for those who love garlic but want a more subtle taste.

Ingredients Needed

To make this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

5 lb. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
3 to 5 heads of roasted garlic
1 1/2 sticks salted butter (3/4 cup)
8 oz. softened cream cheese
1/2 cup half-and-half (or heavy cream)
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Preparing Roasted Garlic

Roasting garlic is a straightforward process that enhances its natural sweetness. Here’s how to do it:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut the top quarter off each garlic head.
Place the garlic heads in a pie pan or foil-lined baking dish.
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Cover with foil and roast for about 45 minutes, or until the garlic is soft and golden.
Let the garlic cool, then squeeze out the cloves.

Preparation of Mashed Potatoes

Preparing the potatoes is just as easy:

Pare and rinse the potatoes. Cut them into 1-inch chunks.
Boil the potatoes in salted water until they are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
Mash the potatoes over low heat to remove excess moisture.
Add softened butter and cream cheese and mash until smooth.
Stir in roasted garlic cloves, half-and-half, salt, and black pepper.

Tips for the Creamiest Mashed Potatoes

To ensure your mashed potatoes are creamy and flavorful, follow these tips:

Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes due to their high starch content, which results in a light and fluffy texture.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to gluey potatoes. Stop mashing once the ingredients are combined.
Use Room Temperature Butter and Cream Cheese: This ensures even melting and blending into the potatoes.
Season Liberally: Taste as you go and add more salt and pepper if needed.

Pairing Suggestions

Roasted garlic mashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. Some favorites include:

Steak: A classic combination, especially with a pan-fried ribeye.
Roasted Vegetables: A simple yet satisfying side dish for roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus.
Thanksgiving Turkey: A perfect accompaniment to the traditional Thanksgiving feast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I roast garlic?

A: To roast garlic, simply cut the top off garlic heads, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and roast at 400°F covered for about 45 minutes, or until soft.

Q: What type of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?

A: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are best due to their high starch content, which yields a light and fluffy texture.

Q: Can I make roasted garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adjusting the consistency with additional half-and-half if needed.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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