01 -
First things first, let's get that gorgeous garlic roasting! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab your head of garlic, slice off about a quarter inch from the top to expose the cloves. Drizzle a little olive oil over the exposed cloves, then wrap it snugly in foil. Pop it in the oven for about 40-50 minutes. You want it soft, golden, and smelling absolutely divine. This is where the magic really begins, honestly, the smell alone is worth the wait!
02 -
While the garlic is doing its thing, peel your potatoes. I usually grab a big bowl of water and peel them right into it to prevent browning. Then, cut them into roughly 1-inch chunks. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly. This is where I always forget to salt the water, but don't you! Seriously, salt your water generously; it seasons the potatoes from the inside out. It makes a huge difference in the final flavor.
03 -
Put those potato chunks into a large pot and cover them with cold, salted water by about an inch. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until they're fork-tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on your potato chunks. You'll know they're ready when a fork slides in easily with no resistance. Don't overcook them, though, or they'll get watery and gluey – a mashed potato disaster I've definitely experienced!
04 -
Once tender, drain the potatoes thoroughly. And I mean *thoroughly*. Return them to the hot, empty pot over low heat for a minute or two to let any remaining moisture steam off. This is a game-changer for fluffy mashed potatoes. Now for the fun part: mashing! I prefer a potato ricer or a hand masher for that truly smooth, lump-free texture. Avoid using a food processor, it'll make them gummy, and nobody wants that!
05 -
By now, your roasted garlic should be cool enough to handle. Squeeze those soft, sweet cloves out of their skins into the mashed potatoes. Add your unsalted butter, whole milk, and sour cream (or cream cheese). Mash everything together until it's smooth and creamy. The kitchen should be smelling incredible right about now, a rich, savory aroma that just makes you want to dig in!
06 -
Now for the most important step: seasoning! Start with a good pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper, then taste. Adjust as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away! Stir in your fresh chives for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your creamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes warm, piled high. It's truly a hug in a bowl, a dish that always brings smiles to faces, even after a chaotic day.