Best Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Name: Best Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds of potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet); 4 cloves of garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, chopped; 1/2 cup of heavy cream; 1/4 cup of butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Creamy, rich, and infused with aromatic rosemary and garlic, these Best Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a delightful twist on a classic side dish. Perfectly fluffy and bursting with flavor, they pair beautifully with any main course, making them an essential addition to your dinner table. Elevate your holiday meals or weeknight dinners with this easy and satisfying recipe that everyone will love.

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2025-11-28T12:05:04.456Z

This recipe originated from a family tradition of making mashed potatoes during the holidays. The addition of rosemary and garlic not only adds flavor but also brings a touch of elegance to the dish.

Perfect Potatoes for Mashed Potatoes

Choosing the right type of potato is essential for achieving the perfect mashed potato texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are favored for their buttery flavor and smooth consistency, while Russets offer a fluffier texture when whipped. Both varieties are excellent choices, but Yukon Golds tend to yield creamier results. To prepare your potatoes, it's crucial to cut them into evenly sized chunks for uniform cooking, preventing any undercooked pieces that can affect the overall texture.

Another important step in preparing mashed potatoes is boiling them in salted water. The salt not only seasons the potatoes but also enhances their natural flavor, making your final dish even more delightful. Aim for fork-tender potatoes, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes of boiling. Testing doneness by piercing with a fork can help you achieve that perfect creamy result.

Infusing Flavor with Garlic and Rosemary

Garlic and rosemary add a sophisticated touch to mashed potatoes, transforming them from ordinary to extraordinary. When sautéing garlic, keep an eye on it to prevent burning, which can result in bitterness. The key is to cook it just until fragrant; this usually takes 1-2 minutes. Fresh rosemary is particularly aromatic and complements the richness of the potatoes, creating a beautiful aromatic experience.

Incorporating these ingredients into your mashed potatoes not only adds depth of flavor but also introduces a hint of freshness. For those who love a robust flavor, feel free to adjust the amounts based on personal preference. Additionally, if fresh rosemary is not available, dried rosemary can be used in a pinch—just reduce the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Tips for Creamy Mashed Potatoes

To achieve the creamiest mashed potatoes, always warm your heavy cream and butter before adding them to the potatoes. Cold ingredients can cool down the cooked potatoes, making it challenging to reach that silky smooth texture. A great tip is to heat the cream and melt the butter in the microwave while the potatoes are boiling. This step saves time while ensuring that your ingredients blend seamlessly.

Mashing technique also plays a crucial role in the final feel of your dish. A potato masher yields a rustic texture, while a ricer or food mill provides a lighter and fluffier consistency. It’s advisable to mash gently to avoid overworking the potatoes, which can lead to a gluey texture. Remember, the goal is to blend the ingredients effortlessly until you reach your preferred level of creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

2 pounds of potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, chopped
1/2 cup of heavy cream
1/4 cup of butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to check for any additional items you might need for serving!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect mashed potatoes:

Prepare the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water.

Cook the Potatoes

Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender.

Add Garlic and Rosemary

While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped rosemary, cooking until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Mash and Mix

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the garlic-rosemary butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Serve

Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with additional rosemary if desired. Enjoy!

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious mashed potatoes!

Serving Suggestions

Best Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can accompany a range of main dishes. They pair exceptionally well with roasted meats, such as succulent chicken, tender beef, or juicy pork. Their creamy texture and flavorful profile add a comforting element that enhances any meal. For a vegetarian option, serve with hearty vegetable dishes or rich sauces to round out the experience.

For a more elevated dining experience, consider garnishing with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan cheese. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also introduce layers of flavor that complement the garlic and rosemary beautifully. Freshly chopped chives or parsley can also add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers of your Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their creamy texture, reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of heavy cream or milk to help restore moisture. Stirring occasionally during reheating will ensure even warmth.

For longer storage, consider freezing your mashed potatoes. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. While freezing may alter the texture slightly, with the right reheating techniques, you can still savor the delicious flavors of this beloved recipe.

Variations of the Recipe

Feel free to personalize your Best Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes by incorporating additional ingredients. For a cheesy twist, consider mixing in grated cheddar or cream cheese during the mashing process. This addition will intensify the flavor and create an even richer, creamier consistency that cheese lovers will adore.

For a touch of heat, mixing in some roasted red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce can ignite your mashed potatoes with a spicy kick. Additionally, experiment with other fresh herbs such as thyme or sage, which can lend their unique flavors to the dish. The beauty of mashed potatoes lies in their adaptability, allowing you to create a version that suits your taste preferences.