After making these herb and garlic mashed potatoes, I couldn’t wait to share my experience. Imagine fluffy, buttery potatoes blended with earthy roasted garlic and fresh herbs like dill and parsley. They were the highlight of our dinner! Even better?
They’re versatile enough to pair with classic dishes like crispy chicken or a hearty casserole. You can also enjoy a creamy twist with this mashed potato casserole with crispy chicken recipe, which I highly recommend. But first, here’s how to perfect this recipe at home.
Ingredients for Perfect Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes
The secret to great mashed potatoes lies in quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, with a few tips to get the best flavor.
- 1 small head of garlic (roasted): Roasting mellows the sharpness of the garlic, offering a rich and creamy flavor.
- 6 medium potatoes (choose Yukon Gold or Russet): These varieties are naturally starchy, making them ideal for a fluffy texture.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the lovely flavors; don’t skimp here!
- 50ml (¼ cup) whole milk (hot): Warming it prevents the potatoes from cooling as you mix.
- 100g (½ cup) unsalted butter (softened): This adds richness and a velvety finish.
- 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and dill (optional): They give a burst of color and flavor.
Note: This recipe serves 4-6 people generously. Adjust ingredient amounts if serving a smaller or larger group.
Creative Variations for Every Taste
Sometimes you want to tweak a recipe based on preferences or dietary needs. Here’s how to customize your mashed potatoes:
- Dairy-Free: Swap butter with vegan butter, and replace milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan or cheddar for an indulgent finish.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red chili flakes or drizzle with chili oil for heat lovers.
- Herbal Medley: Experiment with herbs like chives, thyme, or cilantro for a different aroma.
Cooking Time Breakdown
Making these mashed potatoes is quicker than you think!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Must-Have Equipment for This Recipe
You don’t need a fancy kitchen setup. Just these essentials will do the trick:
- Potato masher: For a rustic mashed texture.
- Large pot: Perfect for boiling potatoes evenly.
- Aluminum foil: Used to wrap garlic for roasting.
- Mixing bowl: To combine the roasted garlic and seasonings.
How to Make Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Making this dish is a breeze. Follow these steps for mashed potato perfection.
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Trim the top off the garlic head to expose the cloves. Wrap it in aluminum foil and place it in the oven to roast for about 45-50 minutes. Once done, the cloves should be soft and golden.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Peel and quarter your potatoes to ensure even cooking. Add them to a pot of salted water and boil until fork-tender. Drain and dry them in the pot over low heat for a minute to remove excess moisture.
Step 3: Mash and Mix
Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into a small bowl and mash them into a paste. Combine the hot potatoes with warm milk, butter, and half of the mashed garlic. Mash until smooth or as chunky as you prefer. Gradually add more roasted garlic and salt to taste. Fold in the herbs just before serving.
Tips for Tastier Mashed Potatoes
Here’s what I’ve learned while making this dish. These tips will elevate your mashed potatoes to new heights.
- Use freshly roasted garlic. It’s sweeter, richer, and adds a depth of flavor you can’t replicate with raw garlic.
- Always heat the milk before mixing. This stops the potatoes from becoming lumpy.
- Avoid over-mixing; it can make the potatoes sticky and gluey.
- Taste as you go. A pinch more salt may be the game-changer you need.
How to Serve Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Plating these mashed potatoes is almost as satisfying as tasting them! Spread them on a serving plate and make a small well in the center. Add a pat of butter and sprinkle a pinch of herbs over the top for that polished presentation.
Mashed potatoes also work as a perfect side for creamy dishes like this crock pot crack potato soup recipe, giving you a comforting meal that’s hard to beat.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional values per serving. It’s comfort food that doesn’t break the calorie bank!
- Calories: 255 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 14g
How to Store Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Storing leftovers is simple and keeps the flavors intact.
- Refrigerating: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, and store for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Heat in a microwave or bake in an oven at 180°C (350°F) until piping hot. Stir occasionally for even warming.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These mashed potatoes are bound to win you over! Here’s why.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps, straightforward ingredients.
- Customizable: Adjust to fit your flavor preferences or dietary needs.
- Pairs Well with Everything: A versatile side that complements meats, casseroles, and soups.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or just a cozy family meal.
For more inspiration, check out these dinner recipes that pair beautifully with these mashed potatoes.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
What’s the best type of potato for this recipe?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal because their starchy texture ensures fluffy, creamy results.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
While dried herbs can work in a pinch, fresh herbs give the dish a vibrant flavor and inviting aroma.
How do I make it vegan?
Use plant-based butter and almond or coconut milk as substitutes for dairy.