Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes for Thanksgiving

Looking for a standout side dish to impress your guests this Thanksgiving? These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are the perfect addition to your holiday spread. Creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-delicious, they will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 5 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1 head of garlic
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Cut the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30-40 minutes until soft.
2. In a large pot, boil the potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
3. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into the pot with the potatoes. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
4. Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with chives, and serve hot.

Popular questions:

• Can I use a different type of potato?
  While russet potatoes work best for this recipe, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
  You can prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance and reheat them in the oven before serving.
• Can I use plant-based milk instead of dairy milk?
  Yes, you can substitute dairy milk with your favorite plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly version.
• Can I add cheese to the mashed potatoes?
  Feel free to mix in some shredded cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
• How can I make this dish gluten-free?
  Ensure that all your ingredients, including butter and seasonings, are gluten-free to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• How can I make this dish healthier?
  You can reduce the amount of butter used or substitute it with olive oil for a lighter version of the mashed potatoes.
• Can I freeze leftovers?
  You can freeze any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• How can I add extra flavor to the dish?
  Try mixing in some roasted shallots or caramelized onions for a more intense flavor profile.
• Can I use roasted garlic paste instead of fresh roasted garlic?
  If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought roasted garlic paste as a quick substitute.
• How can I prevent the mashed potatoes from becoming gluey?
  Avoid overmixing the potatoes once they are mashed to prevent them from becoming too starchy or gluey.

Helpful tips:

• Boil the potatoes with a piece of onion for added flavor.
• Infuse the milk with herbs like rosemary or thyme before adding it to the mashed potatoes.
• For extra richness, use heavy cream instead of milk.
• Season the mashed potatoes generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
• For a burst of freshness, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the mashed potatoes.
• Garnish with crispy fried shallots for added texture and flavor.
• For a cheesy twist, mix in some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese.
• Experiment with different herbs like parsley or dill for a unique taste.
• Top the mashed potatoes with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish.
• To make the dish more visually appealing, sprinkle paprika or smoked paprika on top before serving.

Expert Secrets:

• Boil the potatoes in heavily salted water for seasoned potatoes from the inside out.
• Use a potato ricer for the smoothest and creamiest mashed potatoes.
• Warm the butter and milk before adding to the mashed potatoes for a smoother consistency.
• For a bolder garlic flavor, roast the garlic with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
• Mix in a tablespoon of cream cheese for an extra creamy texture.
• For a hint of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the mashed potatoes.
• Whip the mashed potatoes with a handheld mixer for a fluffy and light texture.
• Season the potatoes with a pinch of nutmeg for warm and cozy flavors.
• Add a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan after roasting the garlic for an elevated taste profile.
• Finely chop and sprinkle crispy bacon on top of the mashed potatoes for a savory crunch.