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Ina Garten Make-Ahead Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Ina Garten Make-Ahead Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Ina Garten’s Make-Ahead Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a rich, creamy mashed potato dish flavored with roasted garlic, butter, and sour cream. The potatoes are prepared earlier in the day (or even the day before), stored in a casserole dish, and reheated before serving — all while maintaining a smooth, fluffy texture.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed

  • 68 garlic cloves, roasted or simmered until soft

  • 1 cup sour cream

  • ½ cup whole milk (warm)

  • ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • Optional: ½ cup grated Parmesan or cream cheese for extra richness

Instructions

Step 1 – Cook the potatoes

Place the peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot of salted water. Boil for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 2 – Prepare the garlic

Roast garlic cloves in foil with a drizzle of oil at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, or simmer peeled cloves in milk until soft. Mash into a smooth paste.

Step 3 – Drain and mash the potatoes

Drain the potatoes well and return them to the hot pot to evaporate extra moisture. Mash until smooth and fluffy.

Step 4 – Add dairy and garlic

Mix in the melted butter, warm milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, and the roasted garlic paste. Stir until creamy and well combined.

Step 5 – Transfer to baking dish

Spoon the mashed potatoes into a buttered casserole dish. Smooth the top and cover tightly with foil.

Step 6 – Refrigerate (make-ahead step)

Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before reheating. This allows flavors to blend and makes serving day much easier.

Step 7 – Reheat and serve

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, covered, until heated through. Stir gently before serving to restore creaminess.