ROASTED GARLIC MASHED POTATOES

Ingredients:

• 1 head of garlic
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 2 pounds red potatoes, washed and quartered
• Kosher salt, to taste
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 3/4 cup half-and-half
• Fresh ground pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Roast the Garlic:
   • Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
   • Cut the top 1/4 inch off the head of garlic to expose the cloves.
   • Place the garlic head on a piece of foil, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap the foil around the garlic to create a sealed packet.
   • Roast in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the garlic cloves are soft and golden brown.
   • Once done, remove from the oven and let cool. Then squeeze the garlic cloves out of their skins when you’re ready to use them.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
   • Place the quartered red potatoes in a large pot or Dutch oven and cover them with cold water. Add a teaspoon of kosher salt.
   • Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
   • Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot.
3. Mash the Potatoes:
   • Add the roasted garlic cloves to the pot with the drained potatoes.
   • In a separate container, gently warm the half-and-half and butter together until the butter is melted. You can do this on the stovetop or in the microwave.
   • Pour the warm half-and-half and butter mixture over the potatoes and garlic.
   • Add additional kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste.
   • Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes until the milk, butter, and garlic are well incorporated, and the potatoes are creamy with some small lumps remaining.
4. Serve:
   • Garnish the mashed potatoes with additional fresh herbs and a dollop of butter if desired.
   • Serve the mashed potatoes warm as the perfect side dish to your favorite entrées.

Enjoy your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes!