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Cozy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes with Crispy Shallots

Cozy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes with Crispy Shallots - featured image

Rustic, creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic and fresh herbs, topped with crispy fried shallots. A comforting side dish that’s quick to make and full of flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (scrubbed well, skins on)
  • 1 head of garlic
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened, cut into cubes)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (warmed)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives (finely chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 large shallots (thinly sliced into rings)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30-35 minutes until soft and golden. Let cool, then squeeze cloves into a bowl and mash with a fork. Set aside.
  2. Scrub potatoes well and cut into 1-inch chunks (no peeling). Place in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add 1 tablespoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
  3. While potatoes boil, prepare crispy shallots. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and smoked paprika. Toss sliced shallot rings in flour mixture until coated. Shake off excess.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Fry shallots in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and season with a pinch of salt.
  5. Drain potatoes in a colander and let steam dry for 2 minutes. Return to pot (off heat) and add softened butter. Mash with a hand masher or ricer until butter is mostly incorporated.
  6. Add roasted garlic paste, warmed heavy cream, and sour cream. Stir gently until just combined. Fold in fresh chives and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Transfer mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Sprinkle crispy shallots generously on top. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best texture, don’t over-mash the potatoes. Warm the dairy before adding to prevent gummy potatoes. Fry shallots in batches and drain immediately on paper towels. Roasted garlic can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potatoes, garlic herb mashed potatoes, crispy shallots, comfort food, side dish, Thanksgiving, holiday