A delightful twist on classic mashed potatoes, featuring roasted garlic and a creamy texture, perfect for any festive occasion.
Peel and chop the potatoes into even-sized chunks.
Cutting the potatoes into uniform pieces ensures they cook evenly.
Place the potatoes in a pot and cover with chicken broth. Add water if needed to fully submerge the potatoes.
Using broth instead of water enhances the flavor of the potatoes.
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Check the potatoes frequently to avoid overcooking.
Drain the potatoes, reserving some of the cooking liquid.
The reserved liquid can be used to adjust the consistency of the mashed potatoes.
Mash the potatoes with roasted garlic and cream cheese until smooth. Add reserved liquid as needed for desired consistency.
For extra smooth potatoes, use a ricer or food mill instead of a masher.
Season the mashed potatoes with salt and black pepper to taste.
Taste as you season to ensure the flavors are balanced.
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
Greasing the dish prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
For a golden crust, use freshly grated parmesan.
Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Covering the dish ensures the potatoes stay moist while baking.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the top.
Keep an eye on the dish to prevent over-browning.
Serve the mashed potatoes warm as a side dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.