Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe – Creamy Holiday Side Dish with Herbs & Butter

A bowl of creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic and fresh rosemary, topped with melted butter and garnished with herbs.
Creamy, herby, and totally irresistible—these mashed potatoes are side dish perfection! 🧄🌿

Why Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes Deserve a Spot on Every Table

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of mashed potatoes—but when you infuse them with the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary and the mellow sweetness of roasted garlic, they become downright irresistible. Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are the kind of dish that brings people together, whether it’s a festive holiday feast, a cozy weeknight dinner, or a chilly evening when only comfort food will do.

Creamy and rich, with just the right amount of rustic charm, this side dish is a celebration of simple ingredients elevated to gourmet status. The velvety texture of perfectly mashed potatoes, the deep, caramelized notes of roasted garlic, and the fragrant lift of rosemary create a harmony of flavors that’s both familiar and exciting.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something warm and satisfying, Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a timeless classic that deserves a permanent place on your table.

What Are Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a delightful twist on the traditional mashed potato dish, enhanced with the bold flavors of roasted garlic and fresh rosemary. This comforting side dish takes inspiration from rustic European kitchens, where herbs and slow-roasted ingredients are celebrated for their ability to transform simple staples into something extraordinary.

At its core, this dish is all about balance—creamy potatoes meet the sweet, mellow depth of roasted garlic and the piney brightness of rosemary. The result is a side that’s rich in flavor, yet versatile enough to complement a wide range of main courses, from hearty roasts to vegetarian entrées.

Loved for its crowd-pleasing appeal and ease of preparation, Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes have become a favorite at both casual family dinners and elegant holiday gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this dish is a surefire way to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need

To create the perfect batch of Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes, you’ll need a handful of wholesome, flavorful ingredients:

  • Potatoes: Choose Yukon Gold for a naturally creamy texture and buttery flavor, or opt for Russet potatoes if you prefer a fluffier mash.
  • Garlic: Use whole cloves, roasted until golden and soft. Roasting mellows the sharpness and brings out a sweet, nutty flavor that infuses the potatoes beautifully.
  • Rosemary: Fresh rosemary sprigs, finely chopped, add a fragrant, earthy note that pairs perfectly with the richness of the potatoes and garlic.
  • Dairy: A combination of heavy cream, whole milk, and unsalted butter creates a luscious, velvety consistency. Adjust the ratio to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
  • Seasonings: A generous pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Cream cheese or Parmesan for extra creaminess and depth.
  • Olive oil and oat milk for a dairy-free alternative that still delivers on flavor.

Pro Tip: Roast your garlic ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It not only deepens the flavor but also makes prep a breeze when you’re ready to mash.

A bowl of creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic and fresh rosemary, topped with melted butter and garnished with herbs.

Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe – Creamy Holiday Side Dish with Herbs & Butter

These Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate savory side dish—velvety smooth, rich in flavor, and infused with aromatic herbs. Roasted garlic and fresh rosemary elevate classic mashed potatoes into a gourmet comfort food that’s perfect for holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or elegant entertaining. Made with real butter, cream, and Yukon Gold potatoes, this recipe delivers a luxurious texture and bold flavor in every bite. Serve with roasted meats or vegetarian mains for a crowd-pleasing pairing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Comfort Food, holiday favorite, Side Dish
Cuisine Rustic European / Modern American
Servings 6
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Foil
  • Baking sheet
  • Potato masher or ricer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 bulb garlic, cloves separated and peeled
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for roasting garlic)
  • 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup whole milk
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp kosher salt (plus more for boiling water)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: ¼ cup cream cheese or Parmesan for extra richness
  • Optional: olive oil and oat milk for dairy-free version

Instructions
 

  • Roast Garlic: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Wrap garlic cloves in foil with olive oil. Roast for 30–40 minutes until golden and soft.
  • Boil Potatoes: Place cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Boil until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.
  • Drain & Steam: Drain potatoes and return to pot. Let sit uncovered for 2–3 minutes to steam off excess moisture.
  • Mash: Add butter, warm cream, milk, roasted garlic, and rosemary. Mash until smooth and creamy.
  • Season: Stir in salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Serve: Garnish with extra rosemary, cracked pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

  • For ultra-smooth texture, use a potato ricer.
  • Mash while potatoes are hot for best absorption of butter and cream.
  • Roast garlic ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
  • Make ahead: Store in fridge for 2 days or freeze in portions for up to 1 month.
  • Reheat gently with added cream or butter to restore texture.
Keyword Comfort Food, Creamy Potatoes, garlic, holiday sides, Mashed Potatoes, rosemary