When you think of comfort food, few things come close to the creamy, buttery satisfaction of Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes. The magic lies in the sweet nuttiness of roasted garlic mingling with fluffy potatoes, rich cream, and just a touch of butter. It’s the kind of side dish that manages to steal the spotlight, elevating any meal from simple to memorable.

Whether it’s the holidays, a weeknight dinner, or a cozy weekend meal, these mashed potatoes offer the perfect balance of flavor and texture. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of technique, you’ll end up with a bowl of pure potato perfection.
What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?
For the fluffiest, creamiest mashed potatoes, go with Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Yukon Golds have a naturally buttery flavor and smooth texture, while Russets are starchier and make for a lighter mash. You can even use a combination of both for an ideal consistency that’s not too dense or too airy.
Ingredients for the Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Potatoes – The foundation of the dish. Choose starchy varieties like Yukon Gold or Russet for that dreamy, creamy finish.
Garlic – Roasting transforms garlic into a sweet, mellow, and rich addition that infuses the entire dish with warmth and depth.
Butter – Adds richness and silkiness. Don’t be shy here; this is what makes mashed potatoes feel indulgent.
Heavy Cream – Helps create a lush, velvety texture that makes every spoonful satisfying.
Salt – Essential for seasoning the potatoes while boiling and balancing the richness of the dish.
Black Pepper – Just enough to add a subtle kick and enhance the overall flavor.
Fresh Parsley (optional) – A touch of green for garnish and a hint of freshness to contrast the creaminess.

How To Make the Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of a head of garlic to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast for about 40 minutes until the cloves are golden, soft, and caramelized. Let it cool slightly before squeezing the roasted cloves out.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Peel and cut your potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, around 15–20 minutes. Drain thoroughly and return to the pot.
Step 3: Mash and Infuse
Add the roasted garlic cloves, butter, and warm heavy cream to the cooked potatoes. Use a potato masher for a rustic texture or a hand mixer for an ultra-smooth mash. Taste and season with salt and black pepper to your preference.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Top with a little extra melted butter, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve warm alongside your favorite main dish for a crowd-pleasing side.
How to Serve and Store Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
These mashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with almost anything — from holiday roasts to simple weeknight chicken. For serving, keep them warm in a covered dish, or use a slow cooker set to warm if you’re hosting. A final drizzle of melted butter and a sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving adds an extra-special touch.
To store leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make roasted garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, they reheat beautifully. Just store them in an airtight container and reheat with a little cream or milk stirred in to restore the texture.
How do I know when the garlic is roasted enough?
The cloves should be golden, very soft, and have a sweet aroma. If they look dry or still firm, give them another 10–15 minutes.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can, but the texture will be lighter and less rich. For a balance, try using half milk and half cream.
What’s the best way to mash the potatoes?
A potato masher works great for a chunky texture, while a hand mixer or ricer gives you ultra-smooth results.
Are these mashed potatoes freezer-friendly?
They can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. For best results, reheat slowly and stir in a little cream as needed.
Want More Side Dish Ideas?
If you’re loving these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, here are some other savory sides that deserve a spot on your table:
• Potatoes au Gratin for a cheesy, golden-baked delight.
• Easy Honey Glazed Carrots to bring sweetness and color to your plate.
• Classic Coleslaw for something crisp and creamy.
• Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad if you like your sides bold and flavorful.
• Roasted Potatoes and Carrots for rustic simplicity done right.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can revisit it whenever the craving strikes.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you mix in any cheese? Maybe added some crispy shallots on top?
I love hearing how these recipes come to life in your kitchen. Got a question or tweak? Share it below and let’s make your next batch even better.


Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
Description
Creamy, comforting, and infused with sweet roasted garlic, these mashed potatoes are the perfect side dish for everything from holiday feasts to cozy weeknight dinners. With a velvety texture and a rich, savory flavor, they’re sure to be a family favorite.
Ingredients
2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1 head garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil (for roasting garlic)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3/4 cup heavy cream, warmed
1 teaspoon salt (plus more for boiling water)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off a head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 40 minutes. Let cool, then squeeze out the soft cloves.
- Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well.
- Return potatoes to the pot. Add roasted garlic, butter, and warm cream. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer to a serving bowl, top with extra butter, parsley, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes (includes garlic roasting)
- Category: Dinner
