Delicious Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes for Comfort Food Lovers

You know that moment when a simple dish suddenly becomes a staple because it just feels right every single time? That’s exactly what happened with my roasted garlic mashed potatoes. I still remember the first time I whipped these up—my kitchen filled with that irresistible aroma of slow-roasted garlic and warm, buttery potatoes. It was like cozy comfort food got a delicious upgrade! This dish found its way into my everyday cooking rotation because it’s a crowd-pleaser, ridiculously easy, and so satisfying. It fits perfectly into my foodie life as a side dish that brings everyone to the table without fuss or fancy ingredients.

What I love most about these roasted garlic mashed potatoes is how the mellow, nutty garlic flavor blends seamlessly with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. It’s heartwarming and delicious, a cozy hug on a plate. Anytime I serve them, friends ask for seconds, and I always catch that glow of happy, satisfied faces—a true joy for any home cook.

If you’re looking for a dish that feels special but is totally doable, you’re going to want to try this roasted garlic mashed potatoes recipe. It’s that wonderful balance of simple ingredients coming together to create something more. Plus, if you’re a fellow garlic lover, this one’s a winner! Get ready, because I’m about to share everything you need to know to make these buttery mashed potatoes with garlic your new go-to comfort side. Let’s dive in, foodie friends!

What You’ll Need:

Here’s the magic behind these roasted garlic mashed potatoes—it’s all about keeping things approachable without sacrificing flavor.

  • 4 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes (perfect balance of creamy and fluffy)
  • 1 whole head of garlic (for roasting, naturally)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (I always grab a little extra for that buttery mashed potatoes with garlic richness)
  • 1 cup whole milk (feel free to swap with half-and-half or even a creamy plant-based option here)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh chives or parsley (optional, for a bright finish)

Out of Yukon Golds? No problem. Russets work great in this roasted garlic potato side dish as well. Either way, you’re looking for potatoes that mash up silky and smooth.

You can find all these ingredients in any regular grocery store, nothing fancy required. This recipe is kind to your wallet because it uses basics you probably already have or can easily pick up without breaking the bank.

Ingredients for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Quick prep tip: Don’t forget to poke your head of garlic before roasting—it helps get that sweet caramelized flavor inside. And while you’re prepping, peel and dice the potatoes to put them in boiling water faster.

Got leftovers? These roasted garlic mashed potatoes reheat so well. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze portions for easy meal additions later.

Here’s my little twist that’s become a favorite—sometimes I add a spoonful of cream cheese for extra creamy roasted garlic potatoes that seriously feel indulgent but still homey. Try it and thank me later!

Let’s Cook This Together:

  1. Roast the garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Take your whole head of garlic, slice off the top so cloves are exposed, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for about 35-40 minutes. Your kitchen is about to smell incredible—sweet, toasty garlic vibes for days.
  2. Prepare the potatoes: While the garlic roasts, peel and chop your potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water by an inch or so.
  3. Boil potatoes: Bring the pot to a boil and cook until potatoes are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. While that’s happening, keep an eye on your golden garlic head.
  4. Mash time: Once the roasted garlic is cool enough, squeeze out those soft cloves into a bowl. They should be golden and soft, no harsh bite here. Mash them up a bit so they’re ready to mingle with your potatoes.
  5. Drain and mash potatoes: Drain your cooked potatoes and return them to the pot or large bowl. Start mashing with a potato masher or fork—that’s where you really get into that creamy roasted garlic potatoes texture.
  6. Add the flavor bomb: Stir in the roasted garlic, butter (let it melt into the warm potatoes), and milk a little at a time. Keep tasting and mashing until you reach your dream creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes consistency. I’m all about them somewhat fluffy but still comforting and creamy.
  7. Season: Salt and pepper come last. Don’t skip this step, friends—it’s the final piece that makes these buttery mashed potatoes with garlic pop.

Side kitchen nugget: while your roasted garlic mashed potatoes is coming together, this is perfect downtime to set the table, pour a glass of wine, or check out more everyday foodie inspiration like these garlic butter beef bites with creamy mashed potatoes.

If your roasted garlic mashed potatoes looks a bit chunkier than expected, don’t worry! Texture can be a personal thing. You can add a splash more milk or give it a quick whirl with a hand mixer if you like it smoother.

From start to finish, your roasted garlic mashed potatoes come together in about an hour, but most of that time you get to just chill or prep your main dish. It’s a win-win!

How to Serve & Savor It:

This roasted garlic mashed potatoes shines on any plate but truly steals the show when teamed up with roasted or grilled proteins like garlic parmesan chicken pasta or that cozy roasted butternut squash with ground turkey I love for fall meals.

Because these mashed potatoes with roasted garlic are rich and creamy, I like serving smaller portions alongside hearty mains so everyone finishes their plate happily without feeling too full.

For a casual family dinner, these buttery mashed potatoes with garlic feel like a treat but are easy enough for a weeknight. When friends come over, I like to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs—chives or parsley—to give a pop of color and freshness that makes this roasted garlic potato side dish feel extra special.

Serving of Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Leftovers are gold here. My favorite leftover makeover? Turn them into crispy potato cakes with a little pan-frying. They crisp up so beautifully and keep that deep garlic flavor intact.

Try adding a seasonal twist by mixing in roasted sweet potatoes or a touch of Parmesan. These changes keep this roasted garlic mashed potatoes feeling new every time I make it.

It’s been a total hit at every gathering I’ve shared it with — so much so that friends often ask me to bring it along to potlucks or holiday feasts.

Your Questions, Answered:

Q: Can I prep parts of this roasted garlic mashed potatoes ahead?
A: Absolutely. You can roast the garlic a day in advance and even peel and chop potatoes. Boil and mash on the day you want to serve for the freshest flavor and texture. Just reheat gently.

Q: What’s a good swap for milk in this roasted garlic mashed potatoes?
A: Half-and-half or heavy cream gives a richer feel. For a dairy-free version, unsweetened almond or oat milk works surprisingly well, especially if you add a touch of vegan butter.

Q: How can I make this roasted garlic mashed potatoes for fewer people?
A: Simply halve the recipe. I find 2 pounds of potatoes with half a head of garlic works perfectly for 3-4 people.

Q: Can I use frozen roasted garlic for this recipe?
A: Yes! Freeze roasted garlic in small portions and pop it into your mashed potatoes for a quick garlic hit whenever you want.

Q: What if I don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes?
A: Russet potatoes are a fantastic easy swap. They mash with a lighter texture but soak up the roasted garlic flavor beautifully.

Q: How do I keep mashed potatoes creamy without making them gluey?
A: Use room temp milk and warmed butter, and be gentle while mashing. Overworking starchy potatoes can make them gummy.

Q: Can I add cheese to this roasted garlic mashed potatoes?
A: Definitely! Parmesan, cream cheese, or cheddar all bring great extra flavor layers. I linked a fun creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes recipe featuring cheese you can check out for ideas.

Final Foodie Thoughts:

This roasted garlic mashed potatoes recipe has a soft spot in my heart because it’s pure comfort made simple. It’s like a cozy, creamy friend on the plate that fits every occasion. Whether it’s an everyday dinner or a special gathering, these potatoes deliver.

My Top Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Tips:

  • Use roasted garlic to replace raw for mellow, sweet flavor
  • Warm your butter and milk before mashing for a silky texture
  • Don’t be afraid to add a little extra butter—it’s so worth it

I’ve loved variety, so I often mix in cream cheese for ultra-creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic or swirl in some fresh herbs for brightness. Sometimes I even toss in roasted parsnips or cauliflower for a twist, but the classic version is still the one that gets requested the most at my dinner table.

Make this roasted garlic mashed potatoes your own—play with the flavors, try different potatoes, or add your favorite toppings. What I hope you love most is how easy it is to make a simple side that feels like a little celebration every time.

Your next meal is calling—grab some potatoes and garlic, and let’s make these roasted garlic mashed potatoes together!

Psst! If you’re into this, you’ll probably love my garlic butter beef bites with creamy mashed potatoes or the simple cozy vibes of roasted butternut squash with ground turkey for a full meal. Don’t forget to check out garlic parmesan chicken pasta for another garlic-infused favorite. And of course, here are a few tasty takes on creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes from The Modern Proper, Chef Billy Parisi, and Kalefornia Kravings for inspiration and ideas. Happy cooking, friends!

Print

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and flavorful roasted garlic mashed potatoes, perfect as a comforting side dish for any meal.

  • Author: Tayla Emerson
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 1 whole head of garlic
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose cloves, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35-40 minutes until soft.
  2. Meanwhile, place chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Drain potatoes and return them to the pot. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and mash with a fork.
  4. Add roasted garlic, butter, and olive oil to potatoes. Begin mashing while gradually adding warm milk until desired creamy consistency is reached.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in chopped chives if using.
  6. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Notes

For extra richness, substitute the milk with heavy cream or add a dollop of sour cream before serving.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!