Stepwise Method: Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

• Start by peeling the Yukon Gold potatoes. Once peeled, chop them into even-sized chunks to ensure they cook uniformly.
• Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add 2 teaspoons of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
• If you haven't done so already, roast the garlic until it’s golden and fragrant by wrapping whole garlic cloves in foil with olive oil and baking at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes.
• Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them thoroughly. Return the potatoes to the pot and use a potato masher or ricer to mash them until smooth.
• Add the cream cheese and unsalted butter to the mashed potatoes. Mix well until the butter has melted and everything is combined into a creamy texture.
• Stir in the roasted garlic, minced basil, rosemary, thyme, and chives. Season with additional salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
• Transfer the Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes to a serving dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of chives or a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, herbaceous flavors!