Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that warms the heart and delights the taste buds, these Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are just what you need. They strike the perfect balance between being simple enough for a busy weeknight dinner and elegant enough to impress at family gatherings. The infusion of fresh rosemary and garlic creates a flavor profile that elevates the humble potato into something truly special.

This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it never fails to bring smiles to faces around the table. Whether it’s a casual Sunday dinner or a festive holiday meal, these mashed potatoes always make an appearance. Get ready to enjoy creamy, dreamy goodness with every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: The rich flavors of garlic and rosemary are loved by both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the potatoes in advance and simply reheat them before serving.
• Delicious flavor: The aromatic infusion of rosemary and garlic makes these mashed potatoes truly memorable.
• Versatile pairing: These mashed potatoes complement almost any main dish, from roasted veggies to hearty stews.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes. You might even have these items on hand already! Here’s what you’ll need:

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 this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on your pantry staples or personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add cheese: Stir in some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese for an extra creamy and cheesy twist!
• Mix in veggies: Mash in some steamed cauliflower for a lighter version or add cooked spinach for more color and nutrients.
• Try different herbs: Experiment with thyme or chives if you’re looking for a different herbal note.
• Make it vegan: Swap out the butter for plant-based alternatives and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.

How to Make Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Start by placing the Yukon gold potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. This step is crucial because starting with cold water ensures even cooking. Add 1 tablespoon of salt, then bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and let them simmer for about 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. That means they should be soft enough that you can easily pierce them with a fork!

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Mixture

While your potatoes are cooking, grab a small saucepan. Heat together the heavy cream and butter over medium heat until melted and warmed through. This not only makes it easier to blend later but also helps enhance those lovely flavors.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Rosemary

Now it’s time to add flavor! Toss in the garlic cloves and rosemary sprigs into your warm cream mixture. Let this steep for about 10 minutes; this step is essential because it allows those beautiful flavors to meld together beautifully. When finished, remove the rosemary sprigs (you can discard them) and either mash or set aside the garlic cloves depending on how strong you want that garlic flavor!

Step 4: Mash Those Potatoes

Once your potatoes are tender, drain them well in a colander. Return them back to the pot – this will help steam off any extra moisture. Use a potato masher, ricer, or hand mixer to mash them until they’re smooth and creamy—this is where all that hard work pays off!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Gradually pour that warm cream mixture into your mashed potatoes while mixing until everything is combined perfectly. Taste test here; season with more salt and pepper if needed!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, serve your luscious Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes hot! For an extra touch, garnish with additional fresh rosemary sprigs or pats of butter if desired. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Perfecting your Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a delightful journey, and these tips will help you create the most flavorful and creamy potatoes!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor, making your mash rich and smooth.

• Infuse the cream properly: Allowing the garlic and rosemary to steep in warm cream not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that every bite of your mashed potatoes carries that delicious aroma.

• Don’t skip the mashing technique: For super creamy mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer or hand mixer. This avoids lumps and creates a velvety texture that’s truly irresistible.

• Season gradually: Adding salt and pepper to taste while mixing in the cream allows you to control the flavors better, ensuring your mashed potatoes are perfectly seasoned.

• Serve immediately for best results: Mashed potatoes can lose their creamy consistency as they cool down. If you need to hold them, keep them warm in a covered dish over simmering water.

How to Serve Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

These Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes can shine on any table! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this comforting side dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or additional rosemary adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors wonderfully.
• Extra butter: A small pat of melted butter on top just before serving makes everything feel a little more indulgent.
• Shaved Parmesan (optional): For an extra layer of flavor without using animal-derived products, try using a plant-based cheese substitute that mimics Parmesan.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized pair beautifully with rich mashed potatoes.
• Grilled chicken or tofu: A simply seasoned grilled protein balances out the creaminess of the mash while adding a lovely texture contrast.
• Green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing crunch that complements the comfort food vibe.
• Savory stuffing: Whether you go for a classic bread stuffing or something more adventurous like quinoa or wild rice stuffing, these hearty sides work harmoniously together.

Enjoy creating delightful meals with these Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes as your star side dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy their creamy goodness whenever you need a comforting side dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Before storing, let them cool to room temperature to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooled mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, portion them out into smaller servings before freezing.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess and heat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Got questions about making these delicious Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes? We’ve got answers!

Can I make Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes without cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with vegetable broth or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut milk for a lighter version.

How do I store leftovers of Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Simply place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

Can I use other herbs besides rosemary?

Yes! While rosemary adds a lovely flavor, feel free to experiment with other herbs such as thyme or chives for a different twist on this classic dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes! Their creamy texture and aromatic flavors make them a truly special addition to any meal. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, they are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and deliciousness!