Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Thanksgiving recipe

Planning a Thanksgiving recipe menu can feel overwhelming, but fear not! Our complete holiday menu guide is here to help you create a delicious and memorable feast. This blog post features a curated collection of Thanksgiving recipes, from classic favorites to exciting new dishes, guaranteeing a show-stopping Thanksgiving spread.

What is Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes elevate a simple side dish into a flavorful statement. Forget bland, ordinary mashed potatoes. This recipe infuses the creamy base with the deeply savory and slightly sweet notes of roasted garlic, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Roasting the garlic softens its intense bite, transforming it into a smooth, almost buttery consistency that blends seamlessly into the potatoes. This results in a rich, comforting side that perfectly complements the traditional Thanksgiving turkey and gravy. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it also adds a touch of sophistication to your Thanksgiving table. Ready to impress your guests? Give these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes a try!

Key Ingredients for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds Russet Potatoes: Peeled and quartered
• 1 head of Garlic: Roasted (see instructions below)
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess.
• 4 tablespoons Butter: Unsalted, for flavor and texture.
• 1/4 cup Milk: Adjust quantity for desired consistency.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh chives, parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil.

How to Roast the Garlic:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off the garlic head, exposing the cloves.
3. Drizzle the exposed cloves with olive oil.
4. Wrap the garlic head in aluminum foil.
5. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and easily pierced with a fork.
6. Allow to cool slightly before squeezing the roasted garlic from the head.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

This dish is surprisingly easy to create, delivering a creamy and deeply flavored side that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The highlight is, of course, the roasted garlic, which gives the potatoes a sweet and savory flavor.The preparation time is about 45 minutes, with most of that time spent on roasting the garlic.

● Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Return the potatoes to the pot.
3. Mash the Potatoes: Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash the potatoes until smooth. Avoid over-mashing, which can make them gluey.
4. Add Roasted Garlic: Squeeze the roasted garlic from the head directly into the potatoes. Mash to incorporate the garlic evenly.
5. Incorporate Dairy: Add the heavy cream, butter, and milk to the potatoes. Mix until creamy and smooth. Adjust the amount of milk to reach your desired consistency.
6. Season and Taste: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it a good stir and do a taste test to ensure the seasoning is to your liking. Add more salt, pepper, or milk as needed.
7. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh chives, parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

The undeniable highlight of this Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe is the transformation of plain potatoes into a gourmet side dish with a rich, savory flavor profile. It’s a simple upgrade that makes a big difference. Making this dish at home is also incredibly cost-effective. You can save a significant amount of money compared to buying pre-made garlic mashed potatoes from the store or ordering them at a restaurant. The roasted garlic is the star, providing a sweet and mellow flavor that elevates the entire dish. Additionally, the richness of the heavy cream and butter contributes to a luxurious texture that’s hard to resist.

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you might consider Classic Mashed Potatoes with plain milk and butter. However, for a truly special occasion like Thanksgiving, the Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes offers a level of depth and complexity that sets it apart. Ready to elevate your Thanksgiving dinner? Give this easy and delicious recipe a try!

What to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes With:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a fantastic side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of Thanksgiving dishes:

• Roasted Turkey: The classic Thanksgiving main dish is perfectly complemented by the creamy, garlicky potatoes.
• Herb-Crusted Pork Loin: The savory flavors of the pork are enhanced by the richness of the mashed potatoes.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and butternut squash add a touch of sweetness and earthiness to the meal.
• Gravy: Turkey gravy or mushroom gravy adds a savory and moist element to the potatoes.
• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a delicious contrast to the rich potatoes.

Top Tips for Perfecting Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become waterlogged and gluey when mashed. Cook them until they are fork-tender but still hold their shape slightly.
• Use a Potato Ricer or Food Mill: For the smoothest mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer or food mill instead of a masher. These tools create a finer texture and prevent over-mashing.
• Warm the Dairy: Warming the heavy cream, butter, and milk before adding them to the potatoes helps them incorporate more smoothly and prevents the potatoes from cooling down too quickly.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can develop the gluten in the potatoes, resulting in a gluey texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Salt Your Water Generously: Salting the water when boiling the potatoes helps to season them from the inside out.
• Substitutions: If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a vegan option, use plant-based milk and butter.
  Ensure butter is softened at room temperature to easily mix in.
  Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor, Roast an Extra Garlic Head: Roasted garlic is so delicious and versatile that you might want to roast an extra head. You can use it in other dishes throughout the week, such as pasta sauces, spreads, or dips.

Health Benefits of Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

While mashed potatoes are often seen as a comfort food, they can offer some nutritional benefits. Potatoes provide carbohydrates for energy and are a source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Roasting the garlic enhances its health benefits, as garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it is essential to consume it in moderation to ensure a balanced diet.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store leftover Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the mashed potatoes. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or a freezer bag. Press out any excess air and seal tightly. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
  For easy reheating, portion the mashed potatoes before freezing.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Place refrigerated mashed potatoes in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to help restore moisture. Stir occasionally until heated through.
• Microwave: Place refrigerated or thawed mashed potatoes in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of milk or cream. Cover and microwave on medium heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Oven: For a larger batch, place thawed mashed potatoes in an oven-safe dish. Add a splash of milk or cream. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
  Thaw Before Reheating: For best results, thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Final Thoughts:

This Thanksgiving recipe for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a simple yet elegant addition to your holiday menu. The rich, savory flavor of roasted garlic elevates this classic side dish, making it a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these mashed potatoes are sure to become a Thanksgiving staple. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different garnishes and seasonings to make them your own! Wishing you a happy and delicious Thanksgiving!

try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Faqs :

Q: Can I use different types of potatoes?

A: While Russet potatoes are traditionally used for mashed potatoes, you can experiment with other varieties like Yukon Gold for a naturally buttery flavor or red potatoes for a slightly firmer texture.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can roast the garlic ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also make the mashed potatoes a day in advance and reheat them before serving.

Q: Can I add cheese to this recipe?

A: Absolutely! A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dollop of cream cheese would add a delicious touch to these mashed potatoes

Q: Can I use a food processor instead of a potato masher?
A: Using a food processor can easily lead to overmixing, resulting in gluey potatoes. A potato masher or ricer is highly recommended for the best texture.