Roasted Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. This dish combines the creamy richness of Yukon Gold potatoes with the aromatic flavors of roasted garlic and fresh herbs, making it perfect for any occasion.
Yukon Gold potatoes are the star here, known for their naturally creamy texture and buttery flavor that’s ideal for mashing. Garlic is roasted to mellow its intensity and enhance its sweetness, blending seamlessly into the potatoes. Unsalted butter adds richness and allows you to control the seasoning. Heavy cream makes the mash extra smooth and indulgent. Salt and black pepper bring out all the flavors, while olive oil helps roast the garlic to perfection. Finally, fresh rosemary and thyme add a fragrant, herbaceous touch that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
These mashed potatoes are a fantastic side for roasted meats like chicken, beef, or lamb. They also pair well with grilled fish or a hearty vegetarian main like stuffed bell peppers. For a festive touch, serve them alongside your holiday turkey or ham.
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that's warming up, grab your garlic bulb and slice the top off to expose the cloves. Drizzle it with olive oil, wrap it snugly in foil, and pop it into the oven. Let it roast for about 30-35 minutes until the cloves are soft and caramelized.
Meanwhile, let's get those potatoes going. Peel and cube about 3 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes. Aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Toss them into a pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. They should be fork-tender in about 20 minutes. Drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot; this will keep them warm and dry off excess moisture.
Once the garlic is roasted and your kitchen smells amazing, squeeze the soft cloves into the pot of potatoes. Add in the butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Now comes the fun part: mash everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
Stir in the freshly chopped rosemary and thyme, giving your mash that delightful herby aroma. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve them warm, and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some additional herbs on top for garnish.