Thanksgiving wouldn’t feel complete without a big bowl of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. But when you add roasted garlic, you elevate this classic side into something unforgettable. These Thanksgiving Garlic Mashed Potatoes are smooth, flavorful, and rich, pairing beautifully with turkey and gravy. I remember the first time I added garlic to my potatoes—the whole table asked for seconds. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication for your holiday feast.
Ingredients
3 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 whole head of garlic, roasted
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for creamier potatoes)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35–40 minutes until soft. Meanwhile, place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well and return to the pot. Squeeze roasted garlic cloves into the potatoes. Mash with butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Garnish with herbs before serving.
Substitutions
Use plant-based butter and almond or oat milk for a vegan version. Swap roasted garlic for sautéed garlic for a quicker option. Add sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness. Use Parmesan cheese for a savory twist.
Equipment
Large pot
Colander
Potato masher or ricer
Foil for roasting garlic
Mixing spoon
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze mashed potatoes for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in oven at 325°F with a splash of milk or butter to restore creaminess.
Top Tips
Always roast garlic ahead for maximum flavor. Warm milk before adding—it blends in smoothly. Don’t overmix potatoes or they’ll turn gummy. Let them rest a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, prepare them the day before and reheat gently with butter and milk.
What’s the best potato for garlic mashed potatoes? Yukon Gold gives creaminess, while Russet adds fluffiness.
Can I make this vegan? Yes, just use plant-based butter and milk.
What dishes pair best? Turkey, gravy, roasted vegetables, and stuffing are perfect matches.