Making some dishes ahead saves time, and these creamy, roasted garlic mashed potatoes are ideal for preparing in advance while still delivering rich, comforting flavor.
Try these other mashed potato variations: Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes and French Onion Mashed Potatoes.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
For many, mashed potatoes are a must at holiday dinners and family gatherings. This version adds roasted garlic for a savory depth that enhances the potatoes without overpowering them.
When I first served this recipe to family, I was worried one head of roasted garlic might not be enough. The group overwhelmingly agreed it was the perfect amount—subtle, savory, and delicious.
Tips for how to make garlic mashed potatoes
- Start the potatoes in cold water and make sure the water covers them by an inch or two so they cook evenly.
- Place the butter in the mixing bowl, then pour the hot, drained potatoes over it so the butter begins to melt into the potatoes immediately.
- Warm the milk briefly before adding so the potatoes stay hot and combine smoothly.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving to get the seasoning just right.
Helpful ingredient information:
- Roasted Garlic: Roasting the garlic mellows its bite and brings out sweet, caramelized notes. Roasted garlic can be prepared ahead of time and kept refrigerated until needed.
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold or butter potatoes are my preferred choice for creamy, buttery texture. Russets also work well if you prefer a fluffier result.
- Other ingredients: I keep this recipe simple to let the garlic shine: salted butter, warmed whole milk for creaminess without heaviness, and salt and pepper to taste.
How long do I boil potatoes for mashed potatoes?
Place the potatoes in cold water, bring to a boil (about 10 minutes), then simmer until fork-tender. Depending on the size of the chunks, this usually takes another 8–12 minutes—check them with a fork.
What’s the best way to mash my potatoes?
Choose the method that matches your preferred texture. A ricer yields very smooth results, a hand masher gives a more rustic texture, and a stand mixer can make very creamy potatoes—finish by hand if you want to remove any remaining lumps.
How do I keep mashed potatoes warm?
Transfer the finished potatoes to a slow cooker set to Warm and cover. Stir occasionally to keep them creamy and prevent a crust from forming.
Leftovers and reheating:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat; add a splash of milk if you want a creamier consistency.
Ingredients that can be prepped ahead:
- Roasted garlic
- Peel and wash the potatoes so they’re ready to cut
Helpful tools:
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Stand mixer or hand mixer (optional)
Hosting Thanksgiving?
Take the stress out of hosting: plan ahead and use make-ahead dishes to enjoy more time with guests.
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Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Jessy Freimann
Pin Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Potato masher (or ricer)
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Chef’s knife
- 1 Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 head roasted garlic (or 2 if you prefer extra garlic)
- 5 pounds Yukon Gold or butter potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
- 1/2 cup salted butter, cut into chunks (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
Instructions
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Place the potato chunks into a pot and cover with cold water, about an inch or two above the potatoes.
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Bring to a boil, then cook for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
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Put the butter in the mixing bowl.
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Drain the potatoes well and immediately pour them, steaming hot, over the butter. Let sit for a minute so the butter begins to melt.
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Begin mashing with an electric mixer or potato masher to break the potatoes up.
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Add the roasted garlic, warmed milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and no lumps remain.
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Taste and adjust seasonings, then serve immediately or keep warm until serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Calories: 335 kcal