Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a classic comfort food that pair well with a variety of main dishes. The creamy texture, rich flavor of Yukon Gold potatoes, and the aromatic addition of roasted garlic make this side dish a favorite for many. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s go through the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create perfect garlic mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1 whole head (bulb) of garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh herbs, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic
- Roast the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut off the top of the garlic bulb to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap in aluminum foil. Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the garlic is soft and fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
- Peel and Chop: Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and cut them into uniform chunks to ensure even cooking.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous amount of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
- Drain and Mash: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or a ricer to mash the potatoes until smooth.
- Add Roasted Garlic: Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and add them to the mashed potatoes. Mix well to combine.
Step 4: Add Cream and Butter
- Heat the Cream and Butter: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over low heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm.
- Incorporate into Potatoes: Gradually add the warm cream and butter mixture to the mashed potatoes, stirring constantly until the potatoes are smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream if necessary.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Season to Taste: Season the garlic mashed potatoes with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, creamy, and flavorful garlic mashed potatoes.
Tips for Success
Tip 1: Choose the Right Potatoes
- Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes because of their creamy texture and buttery flavor. They create a smooth and rich mash without becoming gummy.
Tip 2: Roast the Garlic
- Roasting the garlic mellows its flavor and adds a sweet, nutty taste to the mashed potatoes. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
Tip 3: Warm the Cream and Butter
- Adding warm cream and butter helps the potatoes absorb the liquids better, resulting in a smoother and creamier texture.
Variations
Variation 1: Cheese
- For a cheesy twist, stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan, cheddar, or your favorite cheese into the mashed potatoes.
Variation 2: Herbs
- Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, rosemary, or thyme. Stir them into the potatoes or use them as a garnish.
Variation 3: Spices
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor. These spices complement the richness of the mashed potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Suggestion 1: Main Dishes
- Garlic mashed potatoes pair beautifully with roast chicken, beef, pork, or lamb. They’re also a great side for holiday meals like Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.
Serving Suggestion 2: Vegetables
- Serve with roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal.
Serving Suggestion 3: Gravies and Sauces
- Top the mashed potatoes with gravy or a sauce from your main dish for added flavor and richness.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a versatile and beloved side dish that elevate any meal with their creamy texture and robust flavor. The combination of Yukon Gold potatoes, roasted garlic, and rich cream and butter creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them alongside a holiday roast or a weeknight dinner, these mashed potatoes are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delicious, creamy, and garlicky goodness of this classic side dish
