Buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes made with Yukon Golds, cream, and roasted garlic. This classic holiday recipe pairs beautifully with turkey or prime rib.
Nothing says holiday comfort like perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes. This traditional recipe uses Yukon Gold potatoes, roasted garlic, and heavy cream to create a rich, velvety texture that guests will love. With simple techniques and restaurant-quality results, it's the ultimate holiday side dish.
This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering. The roasted garlic adds depth while the Yukon Golds provide a naturally buttery flavor. You'll impress your guests with a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a fine dining restaurant.
What makes these mashed potatoes extra fluffy? The key is gentle mashing and proper temperature control. We'll walk you through every step to ensure perfect results every time.
Whether you're hosting a large family dinner or a small holiday gathering, this recipe scales easily and freezes beautifully for future meals. Let's get started on this timeless classic!
Don't forget to pin this recipe for later - it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why This Recipe Works
Restaurant-Quality Texture
The combination of Yukon Gold potatoes and heavy cream creates a smooth, velvety texture. The gentle mashing technique preserves the perfect fluffiness without turning it gummy.
Simple Ingredients
Only 5 key ingredients are needed: potatoes, butter, cream, roasted garlic, and salt. No fancy equipment or hard-to-find items required.
Make-Ahead Friendly
The potatoes can be peeled and cubed up to 24 hours in advance. The roasted garlic can be made 2-3 days ahead for maximum flavor development.
Perfect for Large Groups
This recipe easily scales to feed 12-16 people. The ingredients are affordable and the technique is consistent regardless of quantity.
Traditional Holiday Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic
Ingredients
- - 4 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- - 1 cup heavy cream, warmed
- - 8 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- - 2 heads roasted garlic (see instructions)
- - 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- - Fresh chives for garnish
Instructions
Boil Potatoes: Place cubed potatoes in a large pot. Add cold water to cover by 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender but not overcooked.
💡 Drain well and let sit for 5 minutes before mashing to remove excess moisture.
Mash Gently: Use a potato ricer or fork to gently mash potatoes. Avoid overworking which can create a gummy texture. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
💡 Add 1/2 cup of the warmed cream and 4 tbsp butter. Use a wooden spoon to mix until just combined.
Roast Garlic: Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut off the top of each garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35-40 minutes until golden and soft.
💡 Let cool slightly before squeezing the roasted garlic into the mashed potatoes.
Finish the Mash: Add remaining cream and butter gradually while mixing. Season with salt to taste. For extra smooth texture, use an immersion blender for 5-10 seconds.
💡 Garnish with chopped chives before serving.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Yukon Gold Potatoes
These potatoes have a naturally buttery flavor and yellow flesh that creates a smooth, velvety texture when mashed. Russet potatoes can be substituted but will require more cream to achieve the same richness.
Substitutions: Red potatoes for a denser texture, or a mix of Yukon Gold and Russet for extra fluff.
Heavy Cream
The high fat content in heavy cream creates a luxurious texture. You can substitute whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter version, but the texture will be less rich.
Substitutions: Coconut milk for a dairy-free option, or evaporated milk for a similar richness.
Roasted Garlic
Roasting garlic mellows its flavor and creates a sweet, nutty taste that enhances the mashed potatoes. Fresh garlic can be used, but the roasted version adds depth.
Substitutions: Garlic powder (use 1 tsp), or add roasted garlic cloves to the mashed potatoes at the end.
Butter
Unsalted butter is essential for precise seasoning control. The fat adds richness and helps emulsify the mixture for a smooth texture.
Substitutions: Ghee for a nuttier flavor, or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes
Temperature Control
Use warm cream and softened butter to avoid temperature shock which can cause the potatoes to become gummy. Cold ingredients will cool the potatoes and create a gluey texture.
Mashing Technique
Use a potato ricer or fork for gentle mashing. Avoid using a food processor or blender which can overwork the starches and create a gluey texture.
Resting Time
Let the potatoes sit for 5 minutes after boiling to evaporate excess moisture. This prevents the final mash from being too wet.
Salt Timing
Salt the potatoes while boiling, not after mashing. This helps the starches gel properly for the perfect texture.
Variations & Customizations
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Add 1/2 cup grated cheddar or Gruyère to the mashed potatoes for a rich, cheesy flavor. Stir in at the end for the best texture.
Herb Mashed Potatoes
Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. Add 1-2 tbsp of chopped herbs at the end for vibrant flavor and color.
Garlic Lovers Version
Double the roasted garlic and add 1 tsp garlic powder for an extra garlicky flavor. Finish with a drizzle of garlic oil.
Dairy-Free Option
Use vegan butter and coconut milk instead of dairy. Add 1 tsp nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. This version is perfect for lactose-intolerant guests.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Herb Roasted Turkey: The richness of the mashed potatoes balances the savory turkey perfectly.
- Gravy: A classic pairing that adds moisture and flavor to the potatoes.
- Roasted Vegetables: Brussels sprouts, carrots, or parsnips add colorful contrast and earthy flavors.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. For non-alcoholic options, try spiced apple cider or a rich coffee.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the roasted garlic up to 3 days in advance. The potatoes can be peeled and cubed up to 24 hours ahead. Mashed potatoes can be made 2-3 hours in advance and kept warm in a low oven.
Refrigerator Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to restore moisture.
Freezer Storage
Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid using the microwave which can dry out the potatoes.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why are my mashed potatoes gummy?
A: Overworking the potatoes activates the starches. Use a gentle mashing technique and avoid using a blender or food processor.
Q: How to fix dry mashed potatoes?
A: Add more warm cream or butter gradually while mixing. You can also stir in a few tablespoons of hot chicken broth.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes! Use vegan butter, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Q: How to make this gluten-free?
A: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all seasonings and additives are gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
These traditional holiday mashed potatoes are the perfect combination of comfort and elegance. With their creamy texture and rich flavor, they're sure to become a family favorite year after year.
Whether you're celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special family gathering, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with simple ingredients. The roasted garlic adds a depth of flavor that elevates this classic dish to new heights.
Don't forget to share this pin with your friends and family so they can enjoy these perfect mashed potatoes too. And remember, for Pinterest visibility, post this side dish pin as part of a complete meal series over 5-7 days: start with the main dish, followed by complementary sides, and finish with a dessert pin.
