Mashed Potatoes With Oven Roasted Garlic

Introduction

Mashed potatoes are a beloved classic, often serving as a comforting side dish for a variety of meals. Adding roasted garlic elevates this dish, infusing it with a rich, savory depth that transforms simple mashed potatoes into a gourmet delight. The origins of mashed potatoes can be traced back to the 18th century, but the addition of roasted garlic is a more modern twist that enhances its flavor profile.

Roasted garlic mashed potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile. They pair well with many main dishes, from roasted meats to grilled vegetables. This recipe for Mashed Potatoes With Oven Roasted Garlic is perfect for those who love creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes. It’s easy to prepare and is sure to be a hit at your next family dinner or holiday gathering.

Ingredients

To make the best Mashed Potatoes With Oven Roasted Garlic, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 whole head of garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup whole milk (or more, if needed)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the garlic for roasting. Cut off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves. Place the garlic head on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it tightly.
3. Roast the garlic. Place the wrapped garlic in the preheated oven and roast for about 30-40 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
4. Mash the roasted garlic. Once cool, squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and mash them into a paste. Roasted garlic has a mellow, sweet flavor that complements the creamy potatoes perfectly.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

1. Boil the potatoes. Place the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and return to the pot. Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. This allows excess moisture to evaporate, ensuring your mashed potatoes are fluffy, not watery.

Step 3: Mash the Potatoes

1. Add the mashed garlic, butter, and sour cream. Add the roasted garlic paste, butter, and sour cream to the pot with the potatoes. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to mash the ingredients together until smooth.
2. Adjust the creaminess. Gradually add the milk, a little at a time, mashing continuously, until the desired creamy consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve hot. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips and Variations

• How do you keep garlic from burning when roasting potatoes? To prevent garlic from burning, wrap it securely in aluminum foil and roast at a moderate temperature, such as 400°F (200°C). This method ensures the garlic softens without burning, releasing its natural sweetness.
• Are roasting potatoes good for mash? Yukon Gold potatoes are excellent for mashed potatoes due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. While other varieties like Russets can also be used, Yukon Golds offer a smoother, more cohesive mash.
• How should garlic be mashed? After roasting, the garlic should be soft enough to be easily mashed into a paste using a fork or spoon. This paste can then be mixed into the mashed potatoes for even distribution.
• What pairs well with mashed potatoes? Mashed potatoes with roasted garlic pair well with roasted meats, such as chicken, beef, or pork. They also complement vegetarian dishes like grilled vegetables or mushroom stroganoff.

Variations

• Mashed potatoes with oven roasted garlic and sour cream: Add a tangy twist by incorporating sour cream, which adds richness and depth to the mashed potatoes.
• Creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes: For an ultra-creamy texture, increase the amount of butter and milk. A splash of heavy cream can also be added for an indulgent version.
• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes with sour cream and chives: For a classic combination, top the mashed potatoes with freshly chopped chives. The mild onion flavor of the chives enhances the savory garlic notes.
• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes Pioneer Woman style: For a heartier version, add crispy bacon bits and cheddar cheese, as popularized by the Pioneer Woman’s recipes.
• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes Yukon Gold: Use Yukon Gold potatoes exclusively for their naturally creamy texture and rich flavor, which requires less butter and cream.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving of Mashed Potatoes With Oven Roasted Garlic (serves 4):

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 120mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 4g

Conclusion

These Mashed Potatoes With Oven Roasted Garlic are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, adding a touch of sophistication to any meal. The rich, savory flavor of roasted garlic combined with the creamy texture of mashed Yukon Gold potatoes creates a side dish that’s both comforting and gourmet.

We invite you to try this recipe at home and share your experiences in the comments below. Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes on easycrispyrecipes.com, like our Crispy Potato Tacos or Herb Roasted Pork. If you enjoyed this recipe, share it on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.