Let’s dive into the process of making these delicious Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes! Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through each step, ensuring you feel confident and ready to impress your family and friends.

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for roasting garlic.
2. Slice the top off the head of garlic, exposing the cloves. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Wrap it in aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Roast for about 30-35 minutes until the cloves are soft and caramelized.

Tip: While the garlic is roasting, you can get started on the potatoes!

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

3. Peel and chop the potatoes into roughly equal-sized chunks, about 1-2 inches. This helps them cook evenly.
4. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt—this will help flavor the potatoes as they cook.

Note: Using cold water ensures that the potatoes cook evenly, so don’t skip this step!

Step 3: Boil the Potatoes

5. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Tip: To check if they’re done, poke a potato chunk with a fork. If it slides off easily, they’re ready!

Step 4: Drain and Mash

6. Drain the cooked potatoes in a colander and let them sit for a minute to steam off excess moisture. This step is crucial for avoiding watery mashed potatoes!
7. Transfer the potatoes back to the pot.

Step 5: Add the Roasted Garlic and Other Ingredients

8. Once the garlic is roasted, let it cool for a minute, then squeeze the cloves out of their skins and into the pot with the potatoes.

Tip: Use a fork or your fingers to mash the garlic cloves into the potatoes.

9. Add the butter and cream to the pot. Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash until the potatoes reach your desired consistency.

Note: I love to leave a few small lumps for that rustic feel, but if you prefer them super smooth, go for it!

10. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is your chance to adjust the flavors, so don’t be shy!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

11. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with chopped chives or parsley, if desired. A little drizzle of olive oil or an extra pat of butter on top never hurts!

Final Touch: Serve these warm and enjoy the smiles as everyone digs into this heavenly dish!