These garlic confit mashed potatoes take a classic comfort food and turn it into something deeply flavorful and luxurious. Slow-cooked garlic becomes mellow, sweet, and buttery, blending seamlessly into fluffy mashed potatoes for a side dish that feels special yet familiar.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers rich, layered flavor without complicated techniques. The garlic confit adds depth without overpowering, while the olive oil and dairy create an ultra-creamy texture. It’s elegant enough for holidays and special dinners, but still comforting enough for a cozy weekend meal. You can also prepare parts of it ahead of time, making it surprisingly practical.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the garlic confit
2 whole garlic bulbs, cloves separated and peeled
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 small sprig fresh rosemary

For the mashed potatoes
3 lb russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup whole milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 1/2 teaspoons salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives, for garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the peeled garlic cloves in a small oven-safe ramekin. Pour the olive oil over the garlic and add the rosemary sprig, ensuring the cloves are fully submerged. Cover loosely and roast for about 45 minutes, until the garlic is golden, very soft, and easily mashed with a fork. Remove from the oven and set aside.

While the garlic is cooking, place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by at least one inch. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter melts and the mixture is warm. Do not allow it to boil.

Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Add 6 to 8 cloves of the garlic confit, depending on your taste. Reserve the remaining garlic and oil for garnish or other uses. Pour in the warm milk and butter mixture.

Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting as needed.

Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle lightly with some of the garlic-infused olive oil, and finish with chopped chives before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 65 minutes
Total time: approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or a small amount of butter to restore creaminess. Stir well before serving.

FAQs

Can I make garlic confit mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, the garlic confit can be prepared up to one week in advance and stored in its oil in the refrigerator. The mashed potatoes can be made a day ahead and reheated gently.

How garlicky is this recipe?

The flavor is mellow and slightly sweet rather than sharp. You can adjust the intensity by adding more or fewer garlic cloves.

Can I use Yukon Gold potatoes instead of russet?

Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes work well and create a creamier, slightly denser texture.

Can I replace milk with cream?

Yes, heavy cream can be used for a richer and more indulgent result.

What if my mashed potatoes are too thick?

Add more warm milk or melted butter a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Can I leave the potato skins on?

Yes, leaving the skins on creates a more rustic texture and adds fiber.

Can I freeze these mashed potatoes?

Yes, they can be frozen for up to one month. Thaw overnight and reheat gently with added milk.

What can I do with leftover garlic confit oil?

It can be used for roasting vegetables, drizzling over bread, or mixing into dressings.

Do I need special equipment to mash the potatoes?

No, a simple potato masher or even the back of a spoon works well.

What dishes pair best with this recipe?

These mashed potatoes pair well with roasted meats, slow-cimmered stews, and vegetable-based main dishes.

Conclusion

Garlic confit mashed potatoes are a simple yet impressive upgrade to a beloved classic. Creamy, aromatic, and deeply comforting, they bring warmth and elegance to any meal and are sure to become a favorite at your table.

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