Roasted Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls (with Turkey Gravy)

There’s something so comforting about a bowl full of creamy potatoes topped with savory, hearty gravy. This recipe for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls (with Turkey Gravy) takes that comfort to the next level by combining fluffy mashed russet potatoes infused with roasted garlic alongside a rich, herbaceous ground turkey gravy. It’s a meal that satisfies all your cravings—from that buttery, velvety texture to the aromatic blend of thyme and rosemary in the gravy. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

Unlike your traditional mashed potatoes and gravy, these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls bring a unique depth of flavor and texture. Roasting the garlic before mixing it into the potatoes gives a mellow sweetness without the sharp bite of raw garlic. The russet potatoes make for a fluffy, creamy base that soaks up every bit of the luscious turkey gravy. Instead of using beef or pork, this recipe features ground turkey for a leaner, lighter protein that still packs plenty of flavor. The addition of fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary in the gravy adds an aromatic complexity that elevates this dish well beyond the ordinary. Plus, serving everything in individual bowls makes it perfect for casual gatherings or a comforting solo meal.

What You’ll Gather

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large pot – for boiling potatoes
• Mixing bowl – to mash the potatoes
• Potato masher or electric hand mixer – for creamy mashed potatoes
• Skillet or sauté pan – to cook the turkey and prepare the gravy
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions
• Colander – to drain the potatoes

From Start to Finish: Roasted Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls (with Turkey Gravy)

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Roast the Garlic

Begin by peeling and cubing 2 pounds of russet potatoes. Rinse them briefly under cold water to remove excess starch. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F. Take 4 cloves of garlic, mince them finely, and toss them with a little olive oil on a small baking dish. Roast the garlic for about 10-12 minutes until golden and fragrant. This roasting process transforms the garlic’s sharpness into a sweet, mellow flavor perfect for mixing into your mashed potatoes.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Place the cubed potatoes into a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander.

Step 3: Mash the Potatoes with Roasted Garlic

Transfer the drained potatoes back into the warm pot or a mixing bowl. Add 1/2 cup unsalted butter, the roasted minced garlic, and 1/2 cup milk. Mash everything together using a potato masher or an electric hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The roasted garlic will infuse the potatoes with a subtle sweetness and depth that makes these mashed potatoes stand out. If you want a slightly richer flavor, feel free to add a splash more milk or a little cream.

Step 4: Cook the Turkey and Onion

While the potatoes are boiling, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add 1 pound of ground turkey and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. This ground turkey will be the protein base for your gravy, keeping the dish hearty but lighter than traditional beef or pork options.

Step 5: Make the Turkey Gravy

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour evenly over the cooked turkey and onions. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes to cook the flour and create a roux. Slowly pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while stirring steadily to avoid lumps. Add 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and rosemary, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook until thickened to a gravy consistency, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Assemble the Roasted Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls

Spoon generous portions of the roasted garlic mashed potatoes into individual bowls. Ladle the warm turkey gravy over the top, allowing the flavors to meld together. This dish is perfect as-is, or you can garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of black pepper for an extra touch of elegance.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

• Milk: Use almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk to make the mashed potatoes dairy-free.
• Butter: Substitute with vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
• All-purpose flour: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent for the gravy.
• Chicken broth: Use vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian or lighter option.

Cook’s Notes

• For even fluffier mashed potatoes, consider mashing them while they’re still hot, as they absorb butter and milk better.
• If you love garlic, add an extra roasted clove or two for a bolder flavor.
• To save time, prepare the turkey gravy while the potatoes boil to streamline the cooking process.
• Don’t overmix the potatoes, or they could become gluey; gentle mashing is key.
• For a crispy twist, try topping your bowls with a sprinkle of Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes on the side.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store leftover Roasted Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls (with Turkey Gravy) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the mashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Reheat the turkey gravy separately over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Combine both just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance. Store them covered in the fridge and reheat gently with a bit of milk or butter to refresh their creamy texture before serving.

Is ground turkey a good substitute for beef in gravy?

Absolutely. Ground turkey is leaner and cooks quickly, making it a great option for gravy. It absorbs the flavors of herbs and broth beautifully while keeping the dish lighter.

What if I don’t have dried thyme and rosemary?

You can substitute with fresh herbs if available—use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried. Alternatively, Italian seasoning or sage also work well in turkey gravy.

Can I use Yukon gold potatoes instead of russet?

Yes, Yukon golds will work, but expect a slightly creamier and less fluffy texture. Russets are preferred for their starchy, fluffy qualities, but Yukon golds provide a buttery richness.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes With Chives – A fresh take on classic mashed potatoes with a hint of bright chives.
• Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes – Crispy, flavorful roasted potatoes with a garlicky, cheesy twist.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls (with Turkey Gravy) recipe is a true celebration of comfort food done right. The roasted garlic adds a delicious depth to the mashed potatoes, while the savory turkey gravy brings warmth and heartiness to every bite. It’s an approachable recipe with straightforward ingredients that come together to create a meal that feels both special and familiar. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, these bowls are sure to become a go-to for satisfying, soul-soothing dinners. Don’t forget to experiment with herbs and toppings to make it your own signature dish!

Share on Pinterest