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Creamy Make-Ahead Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

creamy make-ahead garlic herb mashed potatoes - featured image

A stress-free, make-ahead mashed potato recipe infused with garlic and herbs. Perfect for holidays or busy weeknights, these potatoes stay creamy and flavorful even when prepared in advance.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs Russet potatoes (peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 6 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tsp dried rosemary
  • Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, for thinning)

Instructions

  1. Peel potatoes and cut into uniform 2-inch chunks. Place in a bowl of cold water to rinse off excess starch.
  2. Drain potatoes and place in a large stockpot. Cover with cold water by an inch and add a generous pinch of salt.
  3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes until fork-tender.
  4. Drain potatoes in a colander and let them steam dry for 1 minute. Return to the warm pot and let sit for 2 more minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
  5. While potatoes cook, melt half the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and dried herbs. Cook gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, without browning.
  6. Transfer hot potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Mash using a potato masher or ricer.
  7. Add the warm garlic-herb butter mixture and heavy cream. Mix gently until just combined and smooth, avoiding over-mixing.
  8. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  9. For make-ahead: Cool to room temperature, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a slow cooker or on the stove, adding broth or cream if needed.

Notes

Start with cold water when boiling to ensure even cooking. Warm the cream and butter before adding to prevent grainy texture. Do not over-mix to avoid a gluey consistency. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter and cream with coconut cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potatoes, make-ahead recipe, garlic herb potatoes, slow cooker mashed potatoes, holiday side dish, comfort food, gluten-free