Side Dishes > Make-Ahead Side Dishes > Warm Make-Ahead Sides > Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

Make-Ahead Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

Prepare creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them effortlessly. Infused with garlic and fresh herbs, these potatoes are a perfect side dish for any occasion, saving you valuable time in the kitchen.

Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Servings
8
Ingredients
  • 5 lbs Russet Potatoes
  • 6 cloves Garlic
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 8 tbsp Butter
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Rosemary
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Thyme
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper

Preparing the Potatoes

Begin by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into uniform, medium-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.

Cooking the Potatoes and Garlic

Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the peeled garlic cloves to the pot to infuse them with flavor and soften them.

Draining and Mashing

Drain the potatoes and garlic thoroughly. Return them to the pot. Add the butter, heavy cream, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use a potato masher or an electric mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the potatoes gluey.

Cooling and Storing

Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely. This is crucial for preventing condensation and maintaining their texture during reheating. Once cooled, transfer the mashed potatoes to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mashed potatoes to an oven-safe dish. Add a splash of milk or cream to rehydrate them. Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Stovetop: Place the mashed potatoes in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to help loosen them up. Stir frequently until heated through, ensuring they don't stick to the bottom of the pan.

Microwave: Place a portion of the mashed potatoes in a microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon of milk or cream. Cover and microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

(Approximate values)
Calories: 120
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 15g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

To reduce the fat content, consider using milk instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of butter used. Using olive oil in place of some of the butter can offer a healthier fat profile. Increase the herbs to enhance flavor with less reliance on fat.

← Make-Ahead Cheesy Potato Casserole (Small Batch) Make-Ahead Mediterranean Pasta Salad →

FAQ

  • Can I use different herbs?

    Yes, feel free to experiment with different herbs such as chives, parsley, or oregano. Adjust the amount to your liking.
  • Can I freeze these mashed potatoes?

    While it's not ideal, you can freeze these mashed potatoes. The texture might change slightly upon thawing and reheating. Ensure they are completely cooled before freezing in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
  • Can I make these vegan?

    Yes, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and the heavy cream with a plant-based milk alternative like oat milk or almond milk.