Print

Creamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe for Perfect Buttery Swirls

creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes - featured image

These creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes are soft, pillowy, and swirled with ribbons of golden butter. Roasted garlic adds a mellow sweetness, making this comfort food perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • Cold water, enough to cover potatoes in pot
  • 2 tsp kosher salt, divided
  • 2 large garlic bulbs, whole and unpeeled
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, divided (plus more for swirling)
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
  • 2 tbsp chives, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (optional)
  • 2 oz cream cheese (optional, for ultra-smooth potatoes)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Slice tops off garlic bulbs to expose cloves. Place each bulb on foil, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil each, wrap tightly, and roast for 25 minutes until soft and golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Place peeled and chunked Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain well in a colander.
  3. While potatoes drain, warm 1 cup milk in a small saucepan over low heat—do not boil.
  4. Return drained potatoes to the pot. Squeeze roasted garlic cloves from their skins directly into the potatoes. Add 4 tbsp unsalted butter and begin mashing with a masher or ricer. Pour in the warm milk gradually, mashing until creamy and smooth. Add 1/2 cup sour cream and mash again.
  5. Sprinkle with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Stir gently with a wooden spoon to incorporate. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add a splash more milk if desired.
  6. Transfer mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Dot the top with remaining 2 tbsp butter, then gently swirl it into the mash. Sprinkle with chives or Parmesan if desired.
  7. Serve immediately while hot for best flavor.

Notes

For extra creamy potatoes, use a ricer. Warm dairy before adding to potatoes to prevent lumps. Mash gently to avoid gluey texture. Make ahead and reheat with a splash of milk and butter. Garnish with chives or Parmesan for added flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potatoes, roasted garlic, creamy, buttery, comfort food, holiday, Thanksgiving, gluten-free, easy, side dish