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Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe with Roasted Garlic and Chives

creamy mashed potatoes - featured image

These creamy mashed potatoes are elevated with sweet, mellow roasted garlic and fresh chives for a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish. Perfect for holidays, weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for pure comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • Cold water (enough to cover potatoes)
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt (for boiling water)
  • 1 large head garlic (or 2 small heads)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Pinch of salt (for garlic)
  • Aluminum foil (for roasting garlic)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons light cream cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic bulb to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and wrap tightly in aluminum foil. Roast for 35–40 minutes until golden and soft.
  2. While garlic roasts, peel and quarter Yukon Gold potatoes. Place in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add 1 tablespoon kosher salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15–20 minutes, until fork-tender.
  3. Drain potatoes well in a colander. Return to the empty pot over low heat for 2–3 minutes, shaking gently, to evaporate excess moisture.
  4. Mash potatoes using a potato masher or ricer until mostly smooth. Avoid overworking.
  5. Squeeze roasted garlic cloves out of skins and mash gently with a fork. Stir into potatoes until evenly distributed.
  6. Add butter and let it melt into hot potatoes. Pour in warmed heavy cream and sour cream. Stir gently until incorporated and mash looks silky and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Fold in chopped chives, reserving a bit for garnish. If desired, stir in Parmesan or cream cheese.
  8. Scoop mashed potatoes into a warm serving bowl, sprinkle with reserved chives, and add a pat of butter on top. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best texture, use Yukon Gold potatoes and start them in cold, salted water. Dry potatoes after boiling for creamier mash. Warm dairy before adding. Avoid overmixing to prevent gluey potatoes. Swap chives for green onions, parsley, or dill if desired. For dairy-free, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives. Mash can be made ahead and reheated with a splash of cream or milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potatoes, roasted garlic, chives, creamy, comfort food, holiday side, gluten-free, easy, potato recipe