Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

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Why Make This Recipe

Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a perfect side dish for many meals. The creamy texture and flavor of fresh rosemary combined with the richness of garlic make these potatoes irresistible. Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food, and with the addition of these simple ingredients, they become a star at any dinner table. This recipe is easy to follow, making it suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a reliable side. Plus, the comforting, hearty nature of mashed potatoes means they pair beautifully with everything from roasted meats to grilled vegetables.

Whether it’s a holiday feast, a family gathering, or a quiet dinner at home, this dish adds a touch of warmth and home-cooked goodness. The aromatic rosemary and garlic not only enhance the flavor but also create an inviting aroma that will have everyone eager to dig in. You can serve these mashed potatoes year-round, but they shine especially during the colder months when people crave warm, cozy dishes.

How to Make Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients

To make Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

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

These ingredients come together to create a comforting, flavorful side dish that everyone will love.

Directions

Prepare the Potatoes: Start by placing the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes into a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add 1 tablespoon of salt. This will help season the potatoes as they cook.
Boil the Potatoes: Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Make sure to keep an eye on it. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and allow the potatoes to simmer for about 15-20 minutes. You want the potatoes to be fork-tender, meaning you can easily pierce them with a fork.
Warm the Cream and Butter: While the potatoes are cooking, take a small saucepan and combine the heavy cream and softened butter. Warm this mixture gently over low heat. Do not let it boil; you just want it warm enough to melt the butter.
Infuse with Garlic and Rosemary: Crush the garlic cloves slightly to release their flavor, and add them along with the rosemary sprigs to the warm cream and butter mixture. Let it steep for about 10 minutes. This allows the cream to absorb the flavors of the garlic and rosemary.
Drain and Mash Potatoes: After the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy.
Combine Cream Mixture with Potatoes: Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the mashed potatoes. Stir gently to combine. Be careful not to over-mix; you want the potatoes to stay light and fluffy.
Season to Taste: Add the remaining kosher salt and black pepper. Taste the potatoes and adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. Don’t hesitate to add a little more salt or pepper if you like.
Serve: Serve the Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes hot. You can garnish them with additional rosemary leaves or a pat of butter on top for an extra touch. Enjoy!

How to Serve Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes can be served alongside a variety of main dishes. They pair very well with roasted chicken, beef, or pork. They can also complement vegetarian meals, such as roasted vegetables or stuffed peppers.

You can serve them in a large bowl and let everyone help themselves, or you can place individual servings on each plate for a more formal presentation. For a little extra flair, consider adding a drizzle of olive oil or sprinkling some grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. This small touch can elevate your mashed potatoes and give them an even more gourmet feel.

How to Store Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you have leftovers (though we doubt there will be many!), storing your Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes is quite simple. Allow the potatoes to cool to room temperature, and then transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.

When you’re ready to reheat them, simply place them in a microwave-safe dish and warm them up in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of milk or cream to help them regain their creamy texture during reheating. Stir them occasionally to ensure they heat evenly. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often until warmed through.

Tips to Make Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for mashing because they are creamy and buttery in flavor. If you can’t find them, russet potatoes can also work, but you might need to add a bit more butter or cream to achieve the same level of creaminess.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the cream mixture with the mashed potatoes, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to a gluey texture, making your potatoes less enjoyable.
Customize Your Flavor: If you love garlic, consider adding an extra clove or two. You can also try other herbs like thyme or chives for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead: You can prepare these potatoes in advance. After making them, let them cool and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving, as mentioned earlier.
Consider Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings. Crumbled bacon, chives, or chopped parsley can add a delightful contrast to the creamy potatoes.

Variation

While the Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe is delicious as is, you can customize it to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:

Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Mix in some grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Add different herbs, like thyme or dill, to customize the flavor. Each herb brings its own unique taste.
Spicy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mashed potatoes.
Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter and use almond milk or coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes like russets or red potatoes. However, Yukon Golds are preferred for their creamy texture and flavor when mashed.

2. How do I make my mashed potatoes fluffier?
To achieve fluffier mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer instead of a masher. Also, avoid overmixing, which can make them gluey.

3. Can I freeze Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes. Place them in an airtight container, and they can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

4. What can I serve with Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes?
These mashed potatoes pair well with roasted meats, gravy, and roasted vegetables. They’re versatile and can enhance many meals.

5. How do I enhance the flavor if the potatoes taste bland?
If the mashed potatoes taste bland, try adding more salt, pepper, or extra garlic. You can also mix in a little sour cream, cream cheese, or cheese to add flavor.

Now you have everything you need to create delicious Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes! Enjoy making this hearty side dish, and don’t forget to share it with family and friends. They will surely appreciate your effort and love for delicious food.