Indulge in the rich, comforting embrace of these creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes, a side dish that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience. Infused with a sweet, caramelized garlic flavor, this recipe is more than just a staple; it’s the perfect companion for any holiday feast or special dinner. What makes it even better? It’s completely gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy this delightful creation without compromise. Prepare to elevate your meal with a dish that’s both decadent and accommodating.

Elevate Your Holiday Table with Flavorful Mashed Potatoes

A holiday table often feels incomplete without a generous serving of mashed potatoes. This recipe takes that beloved classic to an entirely new level by introducing a secret ingredient that transforms it from good to absolutely unforgettable: roasted garlic. The roasting process mellows the garlic’s pungency, bringing forth a sweet, buttery, and deeply aromatic flavor that infuses every spoonful. The result is an incredibly crowd-pleasing side dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with a savory-sweet depth that will have your family and guests coming back for more, time and again. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of gourmet sophistication to your holiday spread with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Adore This Roasted Garlic Mashed Potato Recipe:

• Effortless and Accessible Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt for exotic items. The ingredients for these roasted garlic mashed potatoes are readily available at any local grocery store. We believe delicious food shouldn’t require a scavenger hunt, making this recipe practical for everyday cooking and special occasions alike.
• Remarkably Easy to Prepare: Don’t let the gourmet flavor fool you – preparing these mashed potatoes is incredibly straightforward. With just a few uncomplicated steps, you’ll have a luxurious side dish ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re juggling multiple dishes for a holiday feast, its simplicity ensures a stress-free cooking experience.
• Diet-Friendly for Everyone: This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser because it caters to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or texture. It is 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. This means guests with Celiac disease, gluten sensitivities, lactose intolerance, or those following a vegan diet can enjoy these creamy potatoes without any worries. It’s a wonderfully inclusive dish for any gathering.
• Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The star of this dish is undoubtedly the roasted garlic. Roasting transforms pungent raw garlic into a sweet, mellow, and caramelized delight, which then blends seamlessly into the creamy potatoes. This creates a nuanced flavor that is both comforting and sophisticated, far surpassing ordinary mashed potatoes.
• Versatile Pairing: Whether you’re serving a holiday roast, a simple weeknight chicken, or a hearty vegetarian main, these mashed potatoes make a fantastic accompaniment. Their rich flavor complements a wide range of dishes, making them a go-to side for any meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: You can roast the garlic in advance, saving time on the day you plan to make the mashed potatoes. This flexibility makes holiday meal planning significantly easier, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your feast.

Essential Ingredients for Your Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

Creating these divine garlic mashed potatoes requires a handful of simple yet crucial ingredients. Below is a visual overview to help you gather everything you’ll need for this delicious recipe. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect creamy texture and unforgettable flavor.

(For precise measurements and detailed instructions, please refer to the comprehensive printable recipe card conveniently located at the bottom of this post.)

Recipe Notes & Expert Substitutions for Perfect Mashed Potatoes:

Achieving the perfect roasted garlic mashed potatoes involves understanding the role of each ingredient and how to make smart substitutions when needed. Here are some detailed notes and alternative options to help you customize this recipe to your liking:

• Garlic: The Flavor Powerhouse: The act of roasting an entire head of garlic is absolutely essential for this recipe’s signature flavor. This process completely transforms raw garlic’s sharp, pungent bite into a wonderfully sweet, mellow, and intensely caramelized paste. While it adds a bit of cooking time, the depth of flavor it imparts is irreplaceable and truly worth every minute. Do not skip this step – it’s what sets these mashed potatoes apart!
• Potatoes: The Foundation: The type of potato you choose can influence the final texture.
  • Russet Potatoes (Baking Potatoes): These are high in starch and low in moisture, resulting in a very fluffy, light, and absorbent mash. They are excellent for creamy, airy mashed potatoes.
  • Yukon Gold Potatoes (All-Purpose Potatoes): These offer a medium starch content and a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture when mashed. They create a denser, smoother mash than russets.
  • Red or White Potatoes (Waxy Potatoes): While you can use these, they have a lower starch content and higher moisture, which can make the mash gummier if over-mashed. If using, be gentle.
  • Ultimately, use whichever variety you prefer or have readily available; the roasting garlic will ensure a delicious result regardless.
• Olive Oil: For Roasting and Flavor: I personally favor using extra virgin olive oil for roasting the garlic due to its rich flavor and health benefits. However, any neutral-flavored vegetable oil you have on hand will work perfectly fine. Options include sunflower oil, canola oil, or even avocado oil. The key is to help the garlic caramelize and prevent it from drying out during roasting.
• Seasonings and Condiments: Customizing Your Flavor: For a balanced and delicious base, I’ve included ground black pepper, a hint of ground nutmeg (which beautifully complements potatoes and dairy/dairy-free cream), and salt. However, feel free to get creative with additional seasonings to suit your palate. Consider adding:
  • Garlic powder or onion powder for an extra layer of savory depth.
  • Ground paprika for a subtle smoky note and color.
  • A pinch of ground cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you enjoy a touch of heat.
  • Fresh chopped chives or parsley as a garnish not only add color but also a fresh herbaceous counterpoint.
• Cream: For Supreme Creaminess: To maintain the dairy-free and vegan integrity of this recipe, I’ve used dairy-free heavy cream. Popular choices include full-fat coconut milk (canned, not from a carton, as it’s thicker), cashew cream, or almond-based cooking cream. These alternatives provide exceptional richness and a velvety texture. If dairy is not an issue for you or your guests, traditional heavy cream can be used for an equally delicious result.
• Butter: The Richness Factor: Similar to the cream, dairy-free butter is used here to keep the recipe suitable for all dietary needs. There are many excellent plant-based butters available that mimic the flavor and texture of regular butter remarkably well. If dairy is permissible, feel free to use regular unsalted butter. The butter adds a luxurious mouthfeel and flavor that is essential to classic mashed potatoes.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Creamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

Follow these detailed steps to create perfectly creamy and flavorful roasted garlic mashed potatoes:

1. Roast the Garlic to Perfection: Begin by preheating your oven to 340°F (170°C). Take a whole head of garlic and carefully slice off about a quarter-inch from the very top, exposing the cloves. Drizzle the cut surface generously with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Wrap the entire head tightly in aluminum foil. Place it on a baking sheet and roast for approximately 30 minutes, or until the cloves are incredibly soft, golden brown, and smell wonderfully sweet. Roasting garlic can be done several days in advance and stored in the fridge, making your cooking day much easier.

2. Prepare and Boil the Potatoes: While your garlic is roasting, peel the potatoes and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Cut the potatoes into roughly even-sized chunks, about 1-inch cubes, to ensure they cook uniformly. Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water – starting with cold water helps the potatoes cook more evenly from the outside in. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water; this seasons the potatoes from within. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat slightly and continue to cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are completely tender when pierced easily with a fork.

3. Create the Roasted Garlic Paste: Once the garlic is roasted, carefully remove it from the oven. Open the foil pouch slightly and let the garlic cool for a few minutes until it’s comfortable to handle. Gently squeeze the soft, roasted cloves directly out of their skins into a small bowl. Use a fork or the back of a spoon to mash the cloves until they form a smooth, creamy paste. This paste will be the star of your mashed potatoes!

4. Mash the Cooked Potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, carefully drain almost all of the water from the pot, reserving a small amount (about 1/4 cup) in case you need to adjust the consistency later. Immediately begin mashing the hot potatoes using a potato masher, ricer, or even a sturdy fork. Mashing them while hot helps achieve a smoother, lump-free texture. Be careful not to over-mash, as this can lead to a gummy consistency.

5. Incorporate Cream, Butter & Spices: To the still-hot mashed potatoes, add the dairy-free butter (it will melt beautifully into the warmth), dairy-free heavy cream, grated nutmeg, and black pepper. Continue mashing and stirring vigorously until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the potatoes achieve your desired smooth and creamy consistency. If the mixture seems too thick, gradually add a tablespoon or two of the reserved potato cooking water or a splash of warm dairy-free milk until it reaches perfection.

6. Fold in the Roasted Garlic: Finally, gently fold in the smooth roasted garlic paste you prepared earlier. Mix until the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the mashed potatoes, ensuring every bite gets that wonderful caramelized flavor. Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust the salt or pepper if needed. This is your chance to fine-tune the seasoning to your preference.

7. Garnish and Serve Immediately: Transfer your creamy, aromatic mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, top with a small pat of dairy-free butter (if desired) and a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as chopped chives, parsley, or thyme. Serve immediately while warm, and watch them disappear!

Expert Tips for the Best Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

Unlock the full potential of this recipe with these additional tips and tricks, ensuring your mashed potatoes are nothing short of spectacular:

• For Unrivaled Creaminess: To achieve an even silkier, more luxurious texture, ensure any liquid you add (like dairy-free milk or cream) is warmed before incorporating it into the hot potatoes. Cold liquid can cool down the potatoes and make them harder to achieve that smooth, creamy consistency. A splash of warm vegetable broth can also work wonders for added depth.
• The Magic of Roasted Garlic: We can’t emphasize this enough – roasting the garlic is a game-changer. It not only softens the garlic’s intensity but transforms it into a sweet, rich, and deeply flavorful paste that elevates the entire dish. Don’t rush this step; the caramelized notes are truly worth the extra time in the oven. You can even roast a few heads at once and store the extra paste in the fridge for future use in sauces, spreads, or other dishes.
• Avoid Over-Mashing: Whether you’re using a potato masher, ricer, or even an electric mixer (on low speed), be careful not to over-process the potatoes. Over-mashing can break down too much starch, leading to a gummy or gluey texture rather than light and fluffy. Mash just until smooth and combined.
• Seasoning as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasonings, especially salt and pepper, at various stages. The amount of salt needed can vary based on the potatoes and whether you salted the boiling water adequately.
• Make Ahead and Storage: You can prepare roasted garlic mashed potatoes a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Reheating Instructions: To reheat, gently warm the mashed potatoes in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of warm dairy-free milk or broth to restore creaminess if needed. You can also reheat them in the oven in a covered dish at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.
• Creative Variations:
  • Herbal Infusion: Stir in finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or chives along with the roasted garlic.
  • Cheesy Twist (Non-Vegan Option): If not adhering to a vegan diet, a handful of grated dairy-free parmesan or regular parmesan cheese can add a delightful savory note.
  • Smoky Flavor: A dash of smoked paprika can introduce a wonderful smoky depth to your mash.

Discover More Delicious Gluten-Free Potato Recipes:

If you love potatoes as much as we do, explore these other fantastic gluten-free potato-based recipes:

• Twice-Baked Potatoes (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Easy Potato Salad (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Crispy Potato Balls (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Option)
• Potato Latkes (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Crispy Hasselback Potatoes (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

Delightful Gluten-Free Appetizers to Complement Your Meal:

Looking for the perfect starters to pair with your creamy mashed potatoes? Here are some delicious gluten-free appetizer ideas:

P.S. If you try this incredible recipe for creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes, I’d be absolutely thrilled for you to leave a star rating below, and/or share your thoughts in the comment section further down the page. Your feedback is always valued and truly appreciated. Don’t forget to explore my entire Recipe Index for more culinary inspiration and all the delicious recipes on the blog. You can also connect with me and stay updated by following me on Pinterest, Facebook, or Instagram! And for fresh, exciting recipes delivered straight to your inbox each week, make sure to sign up for my Email List!

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Creamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

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  Author: Felicia Lim
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  Total Time: 50 minutes
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  Yield: 4 servings 1x
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  Diet: Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegan

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Description

Indulge in these incredibly creamy and flavorful roasted garlic mashed potatoes, the ultimate side dish for any holiday table or special occasion. The roasting process transforms ordinary garlic into a sweet, caramelized delight, infusing the potatoes with an irresistible depth of flavor. Plus, this recipe is thoughtfully crafted to be 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making it a perfect, inclusive choice for all your guests.

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Ingredients

Units

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• 1 head garlic
• 1 pound potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold recommended)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• 3 teaspoon ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup dairy-free heavy cream (warmed)
• 2 tablespoons dairy-free butter (melted, plus extra for serving)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., chives, parsley, thyme – optional)

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Instructions

1. Roast Garlic: Preheat your oven to 340°F (170°C). Slice off the top 1/4 inch of the garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Wrap the garlic tightly in aluminum foil. Roast for about 30 minutes, or until the cloves are very soft and golden brown. Let cool slightly. This step can be done in advance and roasted garlic stored in the fridge for a few days.
2. Boil Potatoes: While the garlic is roasting, peel the potatoes, rinse them, and cut them into even 1-inch chunks for uniform cooking. Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Mash Roasted Garlic: Once the roasted garlic has cooled slightly, carefully squeeze the softened cloves out of their skins into a small bowl. Mash them with a fork until you achieve a smooth, creamy paste.
4. Mash Potatoes: Drain most of the water from the cooked potatoes, leaving a small amount (about 1/4 cup) in the pot, which can be used to adjust texture if needed. Begin mashing the hot potatoes immediately with a potato masher, ricer, or fork until they are mostly smooth, being careful not to over-mash.
5. Add Butter, Cream & Spices: To the hot mashed potatoes, add the dairy-free butter, warmed dairy-free heavy cream, grated nutmeg, and black pepper. Continue mashing and stirring until the potatoes are perfectly smooth and creamy, and all ingredients are well incorporated. If too thick, add a bit of the reserved potato water or warm dairy-free milk.
6. Stir in Mashed Garlic: Fold in the roasted garlic paste into the mashed potatoes. Mix gently until the garlic is evenly distributed and the flavors are fully combined. Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed.
7. Garnish & Serve: Serve your creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes immediately while warm. Garnish with an extra pat of dairy-free butter and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or thyme, if desired.

Notes

Garlic: Roasting the entire head of garlic is crucial. It softens its sharpness and pungency while bringing out a wonderful sweet, caramelized flavor. This step is worth the extra time.

Potatoes: For the best texture, use starchy potatoes like Russet (baking potatoes) for a fluffy mash or Yukon Gold (all-purpose) for a naturally creamy, buttery result. Waxy potatoes can work but may become gummy if over-mashed.

Olive Oil: While extra virgin olive oil adds a great flavor, you can use any neutral vegetable oil for roasting, such as sunflower oil or canola oil.

Condiments: This recipe uses ground black pepper, ground nutmeg, and salt. Feel free to customize with other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, ground paprika, or even a pinch of ground cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.

Cream: To keep this recipe dairy-free and vegan, I recommend using a good quality dairy-free heavy cream, such as full-fat canned coconut milk (not from a carton) or a plant-based cooking cream. If not dairy-free, regular heavy cream can be used.

Butter: Similarly, dairy-free butter ensures the recipe remains vegan and dairy-free. For those without dietary restrictions, regular unsalted butter is a perfect substitute.

Make Ahead: Roast the garlic a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This saves significant time when preparing the mashed potatoes.

Reheating: Gently reheat leftovers in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of warm dairy-free milk or vegetable broth to restore moisture and creaminess.

• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting, Boiling, Mashing
• Cuisine: Western, American