Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Name: Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes; 3 cloves garlic; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Published: November 16, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: With minimal cooking time and straightforward instructions, these mashed potatoes fit perfectly into any busy schedule.
Flavorful Infusion: The rosemary and garlic add depth to the dish, transforming simple potatoes into a gourmet experience.
Versatile Side Dish: Whether paired with roasted chicken or served at Thanksgiving dinner, these mashed potatoes are suitable for any occasion.
Impressive Presentation: Garnishing with fresh rosemary sprigs gives an elegant touch that impresses guests without extra effort.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s a brief overview of essential equipment for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Small saucepan
Potato masher or ricer

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes evenly while allowing enough space for water to circulate.
Colander: Helps in draining the boiled potatoes quickly and efficiently, preventing excess moisture.
Potato masher or ricer: A key tool for achieving that smooth and creamy texture in the mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

For these delicious Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

Potatoes

2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, (cut into 1-inch cubes)

Flavoring Agents

3 cloves of garlic
2 sprigs fresh rosemary

Creamy Components

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, (softened)
½ cup heavy cream

Seasoning

½ teaspoon kosher salt, (plus 1 tablespoon for cooking potatoes)
¼ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 2: Heat Cream and Butter

While the potatoes are cooking, heat the cream and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture is warm.

Step 3: Infuse Flavors

Add the garlic cloves and rosemary sprigs to the warmed cream mixture. Let it steep for about 10 minutes to infuse flavors. Remove the rosemary sprigs and discard the garlic cloves (or mash them in if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor).

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

Drain the potatoes well in a colander. Return them to the pot and use a potato masher, ricer, or hand mixer to mash them until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Cream Mixture

Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the mashed potatoes, mixing until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh rosemary sprigs and butter if desired. Enjoy your delicious Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes!

How to Serve Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a versatile side dish that can enhance any meal. Their creamy texture and aromatic flavor make them a favorite at both casual dinners and festive occasions.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breast complements the rich flavors of the mashed potatoes, providing a light yet satisfying meal.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

A medley of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, adds color and nutrition to your plate while balancing the creaminess of the potatoes.

Accompany Beef Stews

The hearty nature of beef stews pairs wonderfully with these mashed potatoes, creating a comforting and filling dinner option.

Top with Herb Butter

A dollop of herb-infused butter on top of the mashed potatoes will elevate their flavor even further, adding an extra layer of richness.

How to Perfect Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for delicious results every time.

Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor.
Don’t skip the soaking: Soaking cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking helps remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier mashed potatoes.
Heat your cream mixture: Warmed cream and butter blend better into the potatoes, ensuring a smooth consistency without cooling them down too much.
Mash while warm: For the best texture, mash your potatoes while they are still warm. Cold potatoes can become gummy when mashed.

Best Side Dishes for Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

For a well-rounded meal, consider serving your Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes alongside these delicious options.

Grilled Salmon: The light flavor of grilled salmon pairs beautifully with the rich taste of garlic mashed potatoes.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts add a delightful crunch and a hint of bitterness that balances out the creamy side.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: The sweetness from honey-glazed carrots complements the savory flavors in your dish.
Sautéed Green Beans: Fresh green beans sautéed with garlic provide a bright contrast to the dense texture of mashed potatoes.
Lamb Chops: Juicy lamb chops bring a robust flavor profile that enhances any meal featuring rosemary garlic mash.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice create a nutritious addition to your dinner spread.
Baked Chicken Thighs: Flavorful baked chicken thighs offer juicy protein that goes well with creamy sides like mashed potatoes.
Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad with vinaigrette can lighten up your plate while adding essential nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

Using the wrong potatoes – Starchy potatoes like Yukon gold create the best texture. Avoid waxy potatoes as they may result in gummy mashed potatoes.
Not seasoning the water – Failing to salt the cooking water can lead to bland potatoes. Always add salt to enhance flavor.
Over-mashing – Overworking the potatoes can make them gluey. Mash just until smooth and creamy for the best texture.
Skipping the infusion step – Not allowing garlic and rosemary to infuse in cream can result in a less flavorful dish. Always let them steep for optimal taste.
Serving cold – Cold mashed potatoes can ruin the experience. Ensure they are served hot for the best flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warm.
Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently, until warmed through.
Stovetop – Warm on low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if necessary to loosen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary?

Yes, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or sage for different flavors.

How do I make dairy-free Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Substitute heavy cream with plant-based milk and use dairy-free butter alternatives.

What can I serve with Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

They pair well with roasted chicken, beef dishes, or grilled vegetables.

How do I achieve a creamier consistency?

Incorporate more heavy cream gradually while mashing until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a delightful side dish perfect for any occasion. Their creamy texture and aromatic flavor make them a versatile addition to both casual dinners and festive gatherings. Feel free to customize by adding different herbs or even mixing in some cheese for an extra indulgent twist!

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