Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds, look no further than these Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes. This recipe has been a family favorite in my home for years, and I can’t wait to share it with you! The creamy texture combined with the aromatic flavors of fresh rosemary and garlic makes this dish perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just want to treat your loved ones to something delicious, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress. They’re simple enough to whip up after a long day but elevated enough to steal the spotlight at any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about 35 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Twist: Infusing cream with rosemary and garlic adds a gourmet touch that elevates traditional mashed potatoes.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich, creamy texture, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare them ahead of time and reheat before serving, saving you time when entertaining.
• Versatile Side Dish: These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with almost any main course, from roasted veggies to grilled chicken.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create these delicious Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes. You may already have most of them in your pantry!

For the Potatoes

• 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus 1 tablespoon for cooking potatoes
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about these Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes is how flexible they are. You can play around with the flavors based on what you have on hand or what your family loves!

• Add Cheese: Stir in some grated parmesan or cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
• Herb Swap: If rosemary isn’t your favorite, try thyme or chives for a different herbal twist.
• Creamy Alternatives: Substitute heavy cream with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor and extra creaminess.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cream for a delicious vegan-friendly version.

How to Make Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Start by placing the potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon of salt; this helps season the potatoes as they cook. Bring everything to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let them simmer for about 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Cooking them perfectly ensures that they’ll mash smoothly later!

Step 2: Heat the Cream Mixture

While those lovely potatoes are bubbling away, grab a small saucepan. Heat the cream and butter over medium heat until the butter melts and everything is warm. This step not only combines our ingredients but also helps ensure we get smooth mashed potatoes without any cold lumps.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Rosemary

Next, add the garlic cloves and rosemary sprigs into your warm cream mixture. Allow it to steep for about 10 minutes—this process infuses wonderful flavors into your cream that will make your mashed potatoes sing! Afterward, remove the rosemary sprigs and discard the garlic cloves (unless you’re feeling bold—mashing them in can add an amazing garlic punch!).

Step 4: Mash Those Potatoes

Once your potatoes are cooked through, drain them well in a colander. Return them back to the pot (off heat) because this helps evaporate any remaining moisture. Using either a potato masher, ricer, or hand mixer, mash those spuds until they reach your desired level of smoothness!

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Gradually pour in that delightful warm cream mixture while mixing until everything is well combined. Taste along the way! Season with additional salt and pepper as needed—you want every bite to be flavorful.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Finally, serve those beautiful Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes hot! Feel free to garnish with additional fresh rosemary sprigs or a pat of butter on top if desired. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

To ensure your Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes turn out perfectly creamy and flavorful, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal because they have a buttery flavor and creamy texture. This makes them perfect for mashing, giving you that velvety finish.
• Don’t rush the boiling process: Cooking the potatoes until they are fork-tender is crucial. If they’re undercooked, you’ll end up with lumpy mashed potatoes. Take your time to let them soften properly.
• Warm your cream and butter: By warming the cream and butter before adding to the potatoes, it helps to maintain the temperature of the dish and ensures a smooth consistency without cooling down your mash.
• Infuse flavors carefully: Allowing the garlic and rosemary to steep in the cream not only enhances the flavors but also avoids any harsh raw notes from the garlic. Just remember to adjust according to your taste preference!
• Mix gently: When combining the potatoes with the cream mixture, mix just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to gluey mashed potatoes, so go for a light hand!

How to Serve Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Presenting your Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes beautifully can make a big difference at mealtime! Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will impress your guests or family.

Garnishes

• Fresh rosemary sprigs: Adding these on top not only makes for a lovely presentation but also reinforces that aromatic flavor.
• A pat of softened butter: Letting it melt into the warm potatoes creates an inviting sheen and extra richness.
• Finely chopped chives or parsley: These herbs add a pop of color and freshness, making your dish visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini tossed in olive oil and herbs perfectly complements the richness of the mashed potatoes.
• Grilled chicken or turkey: A simple grilled protein adds a healthy balance while allowing those delicious mashed potatoes to shine as a side star.
• Green salad: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast that balances out the creamy mash perfectly.
• Steamed green beans: These add a crisp texture and beautiful color contrast to your plate, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll elevate your Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes into a memorable dish that’s sure to become a staple at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy their comforting flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To prevent browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the mashed potatoes before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Portion out the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, try to remove as much air as possible from the bags.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to use.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

Can I use other types of potatoes for Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! While Yukon gold potatoes offer a creamy texture, you can also use Russet or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that different types may change the flavor and texture slightly.

How do I make Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute heavy cream with your favorite plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and replace butter with vegan butter. The flavor will still be fabulous!

Can I prepare Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes in advance?

Yes! You can prepare these mashed potatoes ahead of time. Store them in the fridge or even freeze them for later enjoyment—just follow the storage instructions above!

What should I serve with Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted veggies, grilled chicken, or hearty vegetarian dishes like mushroom risotto. They’re versatile enough to complement any meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They bring warmth and comfort to any table, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—I know you’ll love it! Happy cooking!