Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve come to the right place! These Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are creamy, flavorful, and incredibly comforting. They effortlessly blend the earthy notes of rosemary with the savory punch of garlic, making them a delightful addition to any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, this recipe has got you covered!

What makes these mashed potatoes extra special is how simple they are to prepare. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something that feels both homey and elegant. Trust me, once you serve these at dinner, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can whip these up in no time!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The infusion of rosemary and garlic takes classic mashed potatoes to the next level.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves creamy mashed potatoes! They are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the potatoes in advance and simply reheat them when it’s time to eat.
• Versatile Pairing: These mashed potatoes are perfect with almost any main dish—from roasted chicken to veggie burgers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your kitchen. You’ll love how each one contributes to the rich flavor and creamy texture of these Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

For the Mashed 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re in the mood for something different, here are some variations you can try:

• Add Cheese: Stir in some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
• Creamy Alternatives: Replace heavy cream with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
• Herb Boost: Mix in other herbs like thyme or chives for additional freshness.
• Vegetable Mix-In: Fold in some roasted garlic or sautéed spinach for added nutrition and taste.

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. Adding 1 tablespoon of salt will help season them while they cook. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until fork-tender—about 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked potatoes make all the difference in achieving that creamy texture!

Step 2: Warm the Cream Mixture

While your potatoes are bubbling away, grab a small saucepan. Heat together the cream and butter over medium heat until melted and warmed through. This gentle heating allows the butter to blend seamlessly into the cream, creating a luscious mixture that will elevate your mashed potatoes.

Step 3: Infuse Flavors

Add the garlic cloves and rosemary sprigs to your warmed mixture. Let it steep for about 10 minutes so those beautiful flavors infuse together. The aroma will be heavenly! Once done, remove the rosemary (and discard or mash in those garlic cloves if you love strong garlic flavor).

Step 4: Mash Those Potatoes

Drain your cooked potatoes well in a colander before returning them to their pot. Now it’s time to get mashing! Use either a potato masher, ricer, or hand mixer—whatever tool works best for you—to achieve smoothness and creaminess.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Gradually pour that warm cream mixture into your mashed potatoes while mixing until everything is beautifully combined. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences; this final touch really brings it all together!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Scoop those fluffy Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes onto plates while hot. For an extra special touch, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and a pat of butter if desired. Watch as everyone digs in—these mashed potatoes are bound to steal the show at any meal!

Pro Tips for Making Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect mashed potatoes is all about technique and a few simple tricks! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a hit every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. This will enhance the overall taste of your dish.

• Don’t rush the cooking process: Allowing the potatoes to simmer until fork-tender ensures they mash smoothly. Undercooked potatoes can lead to lumpy, less enjoyable mashed potatoes.

• Warm your cream and butter: Infusing garlic and rosemary in warm cream not only helps to meld the flavors but also ensures that your mashed potatoes stay hot and creamy when mixed.

• Mash while hot: For the best texture, mash your potatoes while they are still warm. Cold potatoes can become gummy and dense when mixed.

• Taste as you go: Adjusting salt and pepper during mixing allows you to achieve that perfect balance of flavor tailored to your preference.

How to Serve Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Serving your Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes beautifully can elevate any meal! Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious side dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh rosemary sprigs: A couple of fresh rosemary sprigs on top not only look beautiful but also add an aromatic touch that complements the flavors.
• A pat of butter: Adding a small dollop of softened butter on top just before serving gives a rich finish as it melts into the warm potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken seasoned with herbs can be a perfect protein partner, balancing the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds color, crunch, and nutrients to your plate, making it visually appealing and healthy.

• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with olive oil and lemon zest provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mashed potatoes.

• Salad with Vinaigrette: A light salad drizzled with vinaigrette adds acidity that cuts through the creaminess, creating a well-rounded meal experience.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes will surely become a beloved staple at your dinner table! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance and store them, making dinner a breeze during busy weeks or festive occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Place cooled mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Store for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or milk if they seem dry.
• Alternatively, you can use the microwave. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some answers to common questions about making Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

Can I use other herbs besides rosemary for these mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! While rosemary adds a wonderful flavor, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or chives for a different twist.

How do I make Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use coconut cream or any non-dairy milk instead of heavy cream.

Can I prepare Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! These mashed potatoes can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or frozen for later use, making meal prep easy and convenient.

What can I serve with Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or your favorite plant-based protein for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful 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 celebration. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe out; I’m sure it will quickly become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!