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.
3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
6–8 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
Place the peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot of salted water. Boil for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
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.
Drain the potatoes well and return them to the hot pot to evaporate extra moisture. Mash until smooth and fluffy.
Mix in the melted butter, warm milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, and the roasted garlic paste. Stir until creamy and well combined.
Spoon the mashed potatoes into a buttered casserole dish. Smooth the top and cover tightly with foil.
Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before reheating. This allows flavors to blend and makes serving day much easier.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, covered, until heated through. Stir gently before serving to restore creaminess.