Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

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Why Make This Recipe

Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are more than just a side dish; they are the ultimate comfort food. When you think of cozy family dinners, festive holiday meals, or Sunday get-togethers, nothing warms the heart and stomach quite like a creamy serving of mashed potatoes. This recipe takes the traditional mashed potatoes and elevates them with the delightful flavors of rosemary and garlic.

Using Yukon Gold potatoes gives these mashed potatoes a buttery richness that pairs perfectly with the invigorating notes of fresh rosemary and the savory undertones of garlic. The combination is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making your dish look as good as it tastes. Whether served alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even as part of a vegetarian spread, Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes promise to be a hit at any meal.

How to Make Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Making Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a straightforward process, perfect for cooks of any skill level. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and creamy side dish.

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

Directions

Prepare the Potatoes: Start by placing the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes into a large pot. Cover the potatoes with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the pot, which will enhance the flavor of the potatoes as they cook.
Boil the Potatoes: Bring the pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they are done when they are fork-tender. This means you can easily slide a fork into the potatoes without resistance.
Warm the Cream and Butter: While the potatoes are cooking, take a small saucepan and combine the heavy cream and softened butter. Heat this mixture over medium heat until the butter fully melts and the mixture is warm. Make sure not to boil it; you want it warm, not bubbling.
Infuse with Garlic and Rosemary: After the cream and butter have warmed, add the garlic cloves and the fresh rosemary sprigs. Let this mixture steep for 10 minutes. This step allows that lovely garlic and rosemary flavor to infuse into the cream, giving your mashed potatoes an aromatic kick.
Drain and Mash Potatoes: Once the potatoes are ready, drain them well in a colander. Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Use a potato masher, ricer, or hand mixer to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. This is the base for your delicious side dish.
Combine Cream Mixture with Potatoes: Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the mashed potatoes, mixing until everything is well combined. Be gentle in your mixing so you don’t overwork the potatoes and create a gluey texture.
Season to Taste: Finally, season your mashed potatoes with the remaining half teaspoon of kosher salt and the black pepper. Taste the potatoes and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serve: Serve your Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes hot. You can garnish with additional fresh rosemary sprigs and a pat of butter for an extra touch.

How to Serve Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes can be served in various ways, making them versatile for different occasions. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

As a Traditional Side Dish: Pair mashed potatoes with roasted chicken, turkey, or beef for a classic meal. They make an excellent accompaniment to gravy as well.
With Simple Proteins: If you’re looking for a lighter meal, serve them alongside grilled fish or sautéed vegetables.
For Holiday Dinners: These mashed potatoes are perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday meal. They look stunning on a festive table alongside your favorite main courses.
Potato Bowls: Get creative and create a "mashed potato bowl" by adding toppings like crispy bacon, cheese, and chives. This adds an exciting twist to your meal.
Comfort Food: At the end of a long day, warm a bowl and enjoy it alone or with a slice of crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.

How to Store Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you have leftovers, you can store your Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes with a few easy steps:

Refrigeration: Simply place the mashed potatoes in an airtight container once they have cooled to room temperature. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can also freeze mashed potatoes. Place them in freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. Mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to two months. It’s a great option for meal prep or making a large batch ahead of time.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight. Warm them gently in a saucepan on low heat, stirring occasionally. If they appear a bit dry, mix in a bit of warm milk or cream to bring back their creamy texture.

Tips to Make Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Select the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture. However, you can experiment with other types like red potatoes or russets. Keep in mind that different varieties will change the flavor and texture slightly.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh rosemary and garlic. They provide the best flavor compared to dried herbs and pre-minced garlic.
Customize the Creaminess: If you prefer richer mashed potatoes, increase the amount of heavy cream or butter. For a lighter version, you can use milk or broth instead of heavy cream.
Infuse Flavors More Intensely: If you love the taste of garlic, consider roasting the garlic beforehand for a sweeter, caramelized flavor. Simply add it to the same saucepan with the warm cream.
Mind the Texture: To achieve the desired creamy texture, avoid over-mixing the potatoes, as this can lead to a gummy consistency.
Garnish for Appeal: Adding a few sprigs of rosemary or a sprinkle of chopped parsley can elevate the visual appeal, making your dish look restaurant-worthy.

Variation

Herb Variations: If rosemary is not your favorite herb, feel free to substitute it with thyme, sage, or even dill for a different flavor profile.
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: For a cheesy twist, you can add shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, or parmesan to the mashed potatoes for extra richness.
Garlic Lovers: If you really want to amplify the garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of fresh garlic for a sweeter, milder taste.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, while Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, you can also use other varieties such as Russet or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that each type will alter the flavor and texture of the mashed potatoes slightly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a bit of milk or cream if they seem dry.

What can I do with leftovers?

Leftover Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes can be reused in various dishes. Try using them as a hearty filling for potato pancakes, or mix them into a savory shepherd’s pie. You can even incorporate them into soups for added creaminess.

How do I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

To make vegan Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes, substitute the butter with vegan butter and replace the heavy cream with almond milk, coconut cream, or any plant-based milk. This way, you’ll still enjoy a creamy consistency without dairy.

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

While fresh rosemary adds a vibrant flavor, you can use dried rosemary in a pinch. Use about one teaspoon of dried rosemary for this recipe, but keep in mind that the flavor may not be as intense as using fresh herbs.

With its delicious blend of flavors and creamy texture, Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are sure to become a frequent feature at your dining table. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they can elevate any meal into something special. So gather your ingredients and enjoy creating this delightful dish!