Sunday Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Name: Sunday Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes; 1 head of garlic; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste; Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making mashed potatoes on Sundays, especially when I can amp up the flavor with roasted garlic. This recipe has become a staple in our home; there's something magical about the creamy texture infused with that sweet, caramelized garlic. The aroma that fills the kitchen as the garlic roasts is enough to make anyone's mouth water. With each bite, these mashed potatoes are not just a side dish but a comforting embrace, perfect for family gatherings and cozy dinners alike.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:55:11.907Z

Making these Sunday Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes was an experiment that turned into a beloved tradition. I wanted to create something that would stand out from the usual recipes, and roasting garlic really elevates the flavor profile. The key is to roast the garlic until it's golden and soft, blending it perfectly with the potatoes for a creamy texture.

As I was adjusting the ratio of butter to cream, I found that using a bit more butter than I typically would gives a lovely richness. Pairing this creamy goodness with fresh herbs at the end adds a bright note that ties everything together. Trust me, this dish will be the highlight of your meal!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Sweet, roasted garlic flavor that enhances every bite
Perfect comfort food for gatherings or cozy Sundays

      

Mastering the Art of Roasting Garlic

Roasting garlic is a simple yet transformative technique that adds depth to your mashed potatoes. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). When you cut the top off the garlic head, make sure to expose the cloves without severing them. Wrapping the garlic in foil helps to trap steam, allowing the cloves to become tender and caramelized. Monitor the progress and remove the foil for the last 5 minutes if you want a more pronounced browning.

Once roasted, the cloves should be soft and lightly browned; you can squeeze them easily from their skins. If your garlic hasn’t softened after 35 minutes, give it a few extra minutes in the oven. This sweet, nutty component is key to infusing the mashed potatoes with a flavor that is rich without being overwhelming.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

While Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for their buttery flavor and creamy texture, you can also experiment with other varieties like Russets or even fingerlings for a unique twist. If you're looking to lower the starch content, try using a mix of Yukon Gold and waxy potatoes, as this can yield a firmer, less gluey mash. Peel them ahead of time to save time during meal prep.

To ensure even cooking, cut your potatoes into uniform sizes—about 1 to 2 inches. Too large, and they may remain undercooked; too small, and they can become waterlogged. Cooking them in salted water is essential, as it enhances the potatoes’ natural flavor, making the final dish more seasoned and delicious.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you plan to make your mashed potatoes ahead of time, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, a splash of milk or additional cream can revive their texture. I recommend reheating on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, or you can use a microwave at medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

For longer storage, these mashed potatoes freeze well as well. To freeze, allow the mix to cool completely, then pack it into freezer-safe bags, pressing out as much air as possible. When you're ready to serve them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat them gently, adding cream as needed.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes
1 head of garlic
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Enjoy your creamy mashed potatoes!

Instructions

Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast for about 30-35 minutes until golden and soft.

Prepare the Potatoes

While the garlic is roasting, peel and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into even pieces. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Mash It Up

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and add them to the potatoes. Add butter and heavy cream, then mash until smooth and creamy.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Dig in!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh chives or parsley as a garnish before serving.

Flavor Enhancements

If you want to elevate the flavor even more, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the mashing process. Finely chop your choice of herbs and fold them in with the roasted garlic for an aromatic twist. Alternatively, you could mix in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream for added richness and a hint of tang.

Another delightful variation is adding grated cheese; Parmesan works beautifully, merging its salty depth with the sweet garlic. For a different flair, try swapping the butter for olive oil. This substitution not only makes the dish dairy-free but also adds a fruity note that complements the garlic.

Serving Suggestions

These Sunday Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes serve as a fantastic base for various dishes. Consider pairing them with a rich gravy for a classic comfort meal, or serve alongside roasted meats like chicken, beef, or pork. They also make an excellent partner for sautéed greens for a well-rounded dinner plate.

For a festive touch, top your mashed potatoes with caramelized onions or crispy fried shallots just before serving. You could even add a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a generous sprinkle of fresh chives to enhance both the visual appeal and flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge and reheat them on the stovetop or in the oven with a splash of milk.

→ What type of potatoes are best for mashing?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture, but you can also use Russet potatoes if you prefer a fluffier mash.

→ Can I use garlic powder instead of roasted garlic?

While garlic powder can add flavor, it won't provide the same sweet, caramelized taste as roasted garlic. I highly recommend using roasted garlic for the best results.

→ How can I make these mashed potatoes lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even chicken broth for a lighter mash without sacrificing flavor.