The first time I tasted Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes, it was like the holidays gave me a hug. Something about that cozy, woodsy aroma hit deep. Lately, this creamy dream has been popping up all over TikTok and Pinterest as one of the Best Thanksgiving Potatoes. It’s simple to whip upabout 30 minutesand beginner-friendly. The real reward? Velvety, buttery potatoes with a herby kick you’ll crave year-round.
This is your new go-to for Thanksgiving sides potatoesor any chilly night when you want comfort without the fuss. We’re talking russets, roasted garlic, a touch of cream, and just enough rosemary to make it special. Classic flavor, pantry staples. Kinda like grandma’s, but with a little polish. Full details in the blog!
I learned early: good mashed potatoes don’t need a dozen ingredientsjust the right ones. We kept this one practical and cozy, perfect for Thanksgiving sides for two or crowd-friendly meals. I tested this recipe until my freezer was fulland you’ll love the secret step that makes them unbelievably smooth.
Why You’ll Love Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Is there anything cozier than a warm bowl of mashed potatoes? These rosemary garlic mashed potatoes are like a holiday hug in a dish. You’ll love this recipe because:
Simple ingredients, maximum flavor: With just Yukon gold potatoes, butter, heavy cream, rosemary, and garlic, it’s proof simple is best.
Beginner-friendly: Perfectly smooth, creamy mashed potatoes feel fancy but are easy enough for any level of cook.
Versatile comfort food: Ideal for Thanksgiving sides, winter dinners, or when you’re just craving the best mashed potatoes ever.
Scents of nostalgia: The woodsy, garlicky infusion will give you all the cozy, old-fashioned vibes.
Key Ingredients & Swaps
Let’s break down this recipe into what you’ll need and how you can tweak it to fit your pantry or preferences.
Ingredient
Role
Substitution Options
Yukon Gold Potatoes
Cook up creamy and buttery for perfect mash
Russet potatoes for a fluffier texture
Fresh Rosemary
Brings woodsy, aromatic depth
Dried rosemary (1 tsp) if fresh isn’t available
Garlic
Infuses mellow, roasted flavor into the mix
Pre-minced garlic, but reduce steeping time
Heavy Cream
Makes it luscious and rich
Whole milk or half-and-half for lighter potatoes
Unsalted Butter
Silky texture and buttery goodness
Salted butter (reduce added salt)
How to Make Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Making these mashed potatoes is straightforward, but the results are magic! Follow these simple steps for foolproof success:
Cook the potatoes: Place your potato cubes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes until fork tender.
Infuse the cream: In a small saucepan, gently heat the cream and butter over medium heat. Toss in the rosemary and garlic cloves to steep for 10 minutes. Pro tip: Let the rosemary and garlic mingle for deeper flavor!
Drain and mash: Once your potatoes are tender, drain them well. Mash using your tool of choicea potato masher, ricer, or hand mixerfor your desired texture.
Combine and season: Gradually add the infused cream mixture into the potatoes, mashing and mixing to creamy perfection. Don’t forget to taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
Note: If you love a stronger garlic hit, you can mash the cooked garlic cloves directly into the potatoes.
Tips for the Perfect Potatoes
These tips will take your mashed potatoes from good to unforgettable:
Start potatoes in cold water: This ensures even cooking without the dreaded “mushy edges.”
No over-stirring: Overworking potatoes can make them glueybe gentle as you mix in the cream.
Customize texture: For chunkier potatoes, mash less thoroughly. For ultra-smooth, use a ricer.
Quick Timing Guide
Step
Time
Boil potatoes
15–20 minutes
Infuse cream
10 minutes
Mash and mix
5 minutes
How to Store & Reheat
If you’ve got leftovers or are prepping ahead for a Thanksgiving feast, here’s how to keep your mashed potatoes tasting fresh:
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave, stirring in a splash of cream or butter to refresh them.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pro Tip: Make-ahead mashed potatoes are a lifesaver for Best Thanksgiving Potatoes. Just reheat gently, and they’ll still steal the show!
Storage Method
How Long It Lasts
Reheating Tips
Fridge
Up to 4 days
Microwave with added cream/butter
Freezer
Up to 1 month
Thaw overnight; reheat on stove or microwave
Expert Insight: Elevating Classic Mashed Potatoes
Rosemary garlic mashed potatoes are a timeless side, but incorporating fresh rosemary enhances the earthy aroma while garlic adds depth and warmth. The key to perfect rosemary garlic mashed potatoes lies in balancing these robust flavors without overpowering the natural creaminess of the potatoes.
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Perfecting My Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes
After several attempts, including a batch that ended up a bit too garlicky for my family’s taste, I finally found the right balance for these rosemary garlic mashed potatoes. It was a slow process of tasting and refining that made this recipe the comforting, flavorful side dish it is today.
FAQs ( Best Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes )
Can I make rosemary garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! These mashed potatoes are perfect for meal prep and work wonderfully as make-ahead Thanksgiving sides. You can prepare them up to 2 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F with a splash of cream or milk to restore their creamy texture. This makes them ideal for busy holiday cooking when you need to manage multiple dishes at once.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Yukon Gold potatoes are the gold standard for the best Thanksgiving potatoes because they have the perfect balance of starch and creaminess. Russet potatoes also work well if you prefer a fluffier texture, while red potatoes will give you a slightly chunkier, more rustic mash. For the silkiest results, stick with Yukon Gold – they naturally create that restaurant-quality smooth and buttery finish that makes these rosemary garlic mashed potatoes truly special.
How much fresh rosemary should I use?
For 2 pounds of potatoes, use about 2-3 tablespoons of fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped. Fresh rosemary has a strong, piney flavor that can easily overpower the dish, so start with less and taste as you go. If you’re using dried rosemary, cut the amount in half since dried herbs are more concentrated. The key is achieving that perfect aromatic balance where the rosemary enhances rather than dominates these cream mashed potatoes.
Can I substitute the garlic with garlic powder?
While fresh garlic gives the best flavor depth, you can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every 3-4 fresh cloves called for in the recipe. However, fresh roasted garlic will give you that sweet, mellow flavor that makes this one of the best fall meal recipes. Consider roasting a whole bulb of garlic beforehand – the caramelized cloves will mash beautifully into the potatoes and create an incredibly rich flavor profile.
Are these mashed potatoes suitable for small gatherings?
Yes! This recipe scales down beautifully and works perfectly as Thanksgiving sides for two or small family dinners. Simply halve all the ingredients for an intimate meal, or keep the full recipe since leftover rosemary garlic mashed potatoes reheat wonderfully and make excellent potato pancakes the next day. They’re also fantastic as a base for shepherd’s pie or as a comforting side for winter dinner recipes throughout the season.
Conclusion
Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes come together in about 30 minutes and deliver that perfect creamy, buttery texture you crave. This easy recipe feels just right for cozy nights or the hustle of holiday cookingyou’ll love how the fragrant rosemary and soft garlic elevate simple potatoes into a memorable side.
Try swapping heavy cream for half-and-half if you want a lighter touch, or fold in a bit of parmesan for an extra savory twist. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 daysjust reheat gently with a splash of cream. This recipe is one of those best Thanksgiving potatoes for a reason, and fits right in with other potato recipes Thanksgiving favorites you’ll return to all fall and winter.
If you give this a whirl, I’d love to see your photos or hear how you make it your own. Did your family have a mashed potato recipe like this growing up? Sharing these dishes is like passing around a little warmthso don’t be shy to bookmark, bake, and share with your nearest and dearest. This one’s a keeper, for sure.
These Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are the perfect blend of creamy, buttery goodness infused with fresh rosemary and garlic. Ideal as the Best Thanksgiving Potatoes or a comforting side for any meal, this Cream Mashed Potatoes recipe is simple yet elegant, sure to impress your guests.
2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 cloves of garlic
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
½ cup heavy cream
½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus 1 tablespoon for cooking potatoes
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Method
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.
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.
Add the garlic cloves and rosemary sprigs to the warmed cream mixture. Let it steep for 10 minutes to infuse the flavors. Remove the rosemary sprigs and discard the garlic cloves (or mash them in if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor).
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.
Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the mashed potatoes, mixing until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh rosemary sprigs and butter, if desired.
Notes
Nutritional information is only an estimate and may vary based on ingredients used. Check the recipe post for tips, ingredient substitutions, and step-by-step photos for best results.
