Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe

If you want a mashed potato dish that’s comfort food at its absolute finest, you have to try these Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes. They’re creamy, rich, and layered with nutty brown butter and the mellow, sweet flavor of roasted garlic. Once you taste these, regular mashed potatoes will never quite measure up again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This is one of those recipes where a handful of humble ingredients transforms into something spectacular. Every component plays an important role—don’t skip a thing if you can help it! Let’s break down how each ingredient adds to those unforgettable Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

• 1 head garlic: Roasting an entire head brings out a mellow, sweet flavor and removes any harshness for a deep, complex taste.
• 2–2½ lbs potatoes: Yukon Golds or Russets are ideal—they yield fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes without being gluey. Choose what you love!
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed: Unsalted lets you control seasoning, and browning it is what makes these potatoes unforgettable.
• 3 tablespoons cream cheese: Adds a tangy richness and creamy body that makes every spoonful extra smooth.
• ½ cup hot milk: Hot milk blends in more easily, making your mash slightly lighter and silkier.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Freshly cracked pepper and plenty of salt are non-negotiable for flavor balance!

Variations

The beauty of Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes is that they’re endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re mixing things up for picky eaters, dietary needs, or pure curiosity, here are some delicious ways to make this dish your own!

• Dairy-Free: Swap the milk and cream cheese for unsweetened, plain non-dairy alternatives—cashew cream or vegan cream cheese work perfectly.
• Chunky Style: Mash less for a chunkier, rustic texture that’s perfect if you’re serving alongside hearty roasts or stews.
• Herb-Loaded: Stir in chopped fresh chives, parsley, or even rosemary for a pop of freshness and color.
• Extra Cheesy: Add grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar alongside the cream cheese for an ultra-rich, cheesy flavor kick.

How to Make Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by prepping your garlic: peel away the outer skin, then slice about a third off the top of the head to expose those gorgeous cloves. Drizzle a little oil, replace the top, and wrap tightly in foil. Roasting for about 25–30 minutes (in the oven or air fryer) transforms it into sweet, golden magic. Let it cool, squeeze out the soft cloves, and toss any overly brown bits.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

While your garlic does its thing, chop your potatoes (peeled or unpeeled, your call!) into generous chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and salt it generously. Bring to a boil and let simmer until fork-tender, usually 25–30 minutes—perfectly timed for the garlic to finish roasting.

Step 3: Make the Brown Butter

While the potatoes boil, it’s brown butter time! Add your cubed butter to a saucepan over medium heat. Let it melt and watch for the telltale foam, then whisk steadily as it shifts from yellow, to amber, to a rich brown. You’ll smell that nutty aroma! Pull it off the heat immediately—don’t let it go too far or it will burn.

Step 4: Dry and Mash

Drain your potatoes, then return them to the pot over low heat for a minute to steam off excess moisture—this tiny step keeps your mashed potatoes from getting watery. Now, add in the roasted garlic, brown butter, salt, and pepper. Gently mash everything together to your preferred smoothness.

Step 5: Blend in Cream Cheese and Milk

Finally, add in the cream cheese and hot milk. Stir just until combined for fluffy, creamy perfection. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then get ready for the best Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes you’ve ever spooned onto a plate!

How to Serve Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garnishes

Add a sprinkling of chopped chives or parsley right before serving to introduce a burst of color and freshness. A quick grind of black pepper or a drizzle of extra browned butter takes these Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes totally over the top in both flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

These mashed potatoes are a dream next to holiday classics like roast turkey, glazed ham, or a juicy ribeye steak. For cozy nights, try them with roast chicken or a vegetable stew—Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes are the classic comfort side made gourmet.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon your mash into a pretty serving bowl and finish with a swirl of reserved brown butter. Take it up a notch by pipping them onto a platter for a dinner party, or serve individual portions in ramekins for an elegant touch. Feeling rustic? Layer them in a casserole dish and broil for a golden, bubbly top!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool them to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation and sogginess.

Freezing

Want to freeze for later? Absolutely! Let them cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. Frozen mashed potatoes keep well for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of milk and gently warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave; give a good stir and taste for seasoning. A pat of fresh butter never hurts for reviving that just-made flavor!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe becomes your new favorite way to make mashed potatoes—once you try Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes, you may never look back! Whether for holidays, special occasions, or just because, this cozy, flavorful side is guaranteed to bring smiles to your table. Give it a try and let me know how you love to serve yours!

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