Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Best Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes deliver everything you want in a comforting side dish—silky smooth texture, rich buttery flavor, and fragrant notes of rosemary and garlic that elevate them far beyond traditional mash. The aroma alone feels warm and inviting, perfect for everything from holiday feasts to cozy weeknight dinners. What I appreciate most about this recipe is how naturally the rosemary and garlic infuse into the potatoes when warmed gently with butter and cream. I once swapped the cream for whole milk and added a touch of sour cream, and it worked great, giving the mashed potatoes a subtle tang that paired beautifully with the herbs. Whether you enjoy them alongside roasted meats, simple vegetables, or a special celebration meal, these mashed potatoes offer comfort, elegance, and irresistible flavor.
Best Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A Creamy, Herb-Infused Comfort Classic
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes infused with fragrant rosemary and roasted garlic for a rich, savory side dish perfect for holidays or everyday dinners.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 head garlic, roasted
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1–2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for roasting the garlic)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35–40 minutes until soft and caramelized.
- Meanwhile, place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes or until fork-tender.
- Drain potatoes and return to the pot to steam off excess moisture.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins and mash lightly.
- Warm the cream and butter in a small saucepan until melted.
- Mash potatoes with roasted garlic, then add warm cream mixture, sour cream (if using), rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until smooth and fluffy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Serve warm and garnish with extra rosemary or a pat of butter.
Notes
- Use Yukon Golds for the creamiest texture; russets also work well for a lighter mash.
- Warming the cream and butter prevents the potatoes from becoming gluey.
- Add cream gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- For extra flavor, infuse the cream with rosemary by simmering it briefly before adding.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling & Mashing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
These varieties provide a creamy texture and mild flavor that absorbs butter and herbs beautifully. Yukon Golds create a naturally buttery mash, while Russets produce a fluffier result.
Butter
Butter adds richness and enhances the herbal flavors. Melting it with garlic and rosemary infuses deep aromatic notes.
Garlic
Fresh garlic cloves add savory depth and warmth. They mellow beautifully when gently cooked in butter or cream.
Fresh Rosemary
Rosemary brings aromatic earthiness and pairs perfectly with potatoes and garlic. Its fragrance elevates this classic comfort dish.
Heavy Cream or Milk
Cream gives luxurious richness, while milk keeps the mash lighter. Both ensure smooth, velvety texture when warmed before mixing.
Salt
Salt enhances every component, especially the potatoes, which require generous seasoning to shine.
Black Pepper
Freshly ground pepper adds a subtle bite and balances the richness.
Olive Oil (Optional)
Adds a hint of earthiness and blends well with rosemary for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
Directions
Start by peeling and cutting the potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a pot of cold, salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well and return to the warm pot to release excess steam.
In a small saucepan, melt butter with minced garlic and rosemary over low heat. Add cream or milk and let it warm gently—not boiling—to allow the flavors to infuse. Remove the rosemary sprig once fragrant if you prefer a milder herbal note.
Mash the potatoes using a masher or ricer until smooth. Slowly pour in the warm garlic-rosemary mixture, stirring gently to incorporate. Continue until the mash reaches your desired consistency. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust as needed.
Serve warm, topped with a pat of butter or a sprinkle of extra chopped rosemary for a finishing touch.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
Serves 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Mashed potatoes also freeze well—store in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator, then warm gently. Avoid overheating, which can make the potatoes gluey.
Variations and Customizations
Extra Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Add cream cheese or sour cream for added richness and tang.
Roasted Garlic Version
Replace fresh garlic with roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.
Lemon Rosemary Mash
Add a touch of lemon zest for brightness.
Parmesan Rosemary Potatoes
Mix grated Parmesan into the mash for savory, nutty depth.
Olive Oil–Infused Mash
Replace some butter with olive oil for a lighter, aromatic version.
Chive and Rosemary
Add chopped chives for mild onion flavor and color contrast.
Dairy-Free Option
Use plant-based milk and vegan butter for a rich dairy-free alternative.
Rustic Mash
Leave some potato skins on and mash lightly for a more textured, homey dish.
Herb Trio
Add thyme and parsley along with rosemary for a full herb bouquet.
Spicy Rosemary Mash
Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
FAQs
Can I use both Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes?
Yes, combining them gives a perfect blend of fluffiness and creaminess.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional—keep skins for a rustic texture.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, store and reheat with extra cream or milk to restore smoothness.
Why are my mashed potatoes gluey?
Overmixing can make potatoes gummy; mash gently for best texture.
Can I use dried rosemary?
Yes, but use less, as dried herbs have stronger concentration.
Should I warm the milk first?
Yes, warm milk or cream blends better and keeps the potatoes fluffy.
How do I fix bland mashed potatoes?
Add more salt—potatoes require generous seasoning.
Can I freeze mashed potatoes?
Yes, they freeze well when reheated gently with added moisture.
What pairs well with this dish?
Roast chicken, steak, turkey, pork chops, or vegetable gratins.
Can I add garlic powder instead of fresh?
Yes, but use sparingly—fresh garlic gives better depth.
Conclusion
Best Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes elevate a classic comfort dish with warm, fragrant herbs and creamy, buttery texture. They pair beautifully with nearly any meal and bring a touch of elegance to both weeknight dinners and holiday celebrations. With their aromatic rosemary, mellow garlic, and rich flavor, these mashed potatoes are sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every spoonful of this cozy, flavorful side.
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