Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting side dish that will elevate any meal, you’ve come to the right place! These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} are not just your ordinary mashed potatoes; they’re infused with the rich, sweet flavor of roasted garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is as simple as it is delicious. Imagine coming home to the warm aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen, knowing that you have a delightful dish waiting for you!

What makes these mashed potatoes truly special is how easy they are to prepare in your slow cooker. You can set it and forget it while you tackle other tasks, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep or holiday dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps and minimal hands-on time, you can whip up these delicious mashed potatoes without breaking a sweat.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and savory flavor—this side dish is sure to be a hit at any table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The slow cooker allows you to prepare these potatoes ahead of time, freeing up your schedule for more fun during busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted garlic and fresh thyme adds depth and richness that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted by how simple and wholesome the ingredients are for these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes! Each component plays its part in creating creamy, flavorful bliss. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 2 lbs. Red potatoes, cut into 1 ½ inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1 head roasted garlic (12-15 cloves) (see notes)
• ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) salted butter
• 1 ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
• ⅓-½ cup heavy cream (to preference)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize the flavors to suit your taste! Here are some variations you might enjoy:

• Add Cheese: Stir in some grated parmesan or cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
• Mix in Veggies: Fold in cooked spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or chives for a unique twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want to introduce a little heat to the mix!

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

Start by spraying the inside of your three-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier later on. Add in those lovely red potato pieces along with thyme, roasted garlic cloves, butter, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Cover it up and let it cook! Depending on your schedule, choose either the high setting for 4-5 hours or low for 7-8 hours.

Step 2: Mix It Up

Once your potatoes are tender after cooking, it’s time to add that creamy goodness! Pour in heavy cream according to your preference—starting with ⅓ cup and adding more if you’d like them even creamier. Remember that using regular milk is an option too, but won’t provide that rich texture we all crave!

Step 3: Mash Away

Now comes the fun part! Use a hand mixer or potato masher to blend until you reach your desired consistency. If using a hand mixer, keep it on low speed and be cautious near the bottom of the crockpot. This step allows all those flavors to meld together perfectly! Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed.

Step 4: Serve It Up

Finally, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over your mashed potatoes before serving. This not only adds a beautiful pop of color but also enhances that fresh herb flavor! Enjoy this comforting side dish alongside your favorite main courses—you’ll find that these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes become a go-to favorite in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

Making roasted garlic mashed potatoes in the slow cooker is a breeze, and with a few extra tips, you can elevate this dish to perfection!

• Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes are ideal for creamy mashed potatoes because they have a higher moisture content and lower starch. This results in a smooth texture that pairs beautifully with the roasted garlic.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma and flavor to your mashed potatoes. If you have other fresh herbs on hand, like rosemary or chives, feel free to mix them in for an extra layer of taste!
• Don’t rush the blending: Mix your potatoes slowly, especially if using a hand mixer. This helps prevent overworking them, which can lead to a gummy texture instead of the desired creaminess.
• Adjust cream wisely: Start with ⅓ cup of heavy cream and gradually add more until you reach your preferred creaminess. This ensures you don’t end up with overly soupy potatoes!
• Season after mixing: Taste your mashed potatoes once blended and adjust the seasoning as necessary. This allows you to achieve just the right balance of salt and pepper according to your palate.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

These creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting side dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds both color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Shaved Parmesan: For those who enjoy dairy, adding shaved Parmesan gives an extra depth of flavor while enhancing the visual appeal.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate the dish further, providing a beautiful sheen and additional richness.

Side Dishes

• Grilled vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled to perfection is a vibrant addition that contrasts nicely with creamy mashed potatoes.
• Roasted chicken: Pairing these mashed potatoes with juicy roasted chicken creates a hearty meal. The savory flavors harmonize beautifully, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Green salad: A crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the mashed potatoes. It adds color and nutrients to your plate!
• Stuffed bell peppers: These colorful peppers filled with grains, beans, or veggies make for an exciting side that provides both texture and flavor variation alongside your creamy mash.

Now you’re all set to impress at your next dinner gathering! Enjoy these delightful roasted garlic mashed potatoes paired with your favorite sides for a truly unforgettable meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy delicious, creamy mashed potatoes whenever you need a comforting side dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the mashed potatoes cool down to room temperature.
• Spoon them into a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
• Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use different types of potatoes for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}?

Yes! While red potatoes are great for their creamy texture, you can also use Yukon gold or russet potatoes. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the type of potato you choose.

How do I make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the salted butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk instead of heavy cream. Vegetable broth should also be used if not already included.

Can I add other flavors to my mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cheese, sour cream, or other herbs like chives or rosemary for extra flavor. Just be mindful of how these additions may change the consistency.

How do I ensure my mashed potatoes are creamy?

For creamy texture, use heavy cream as suggested in the recipe. If you prefer a lighter option, try adding more broth or using a hand mixer gently until just combined.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} as much as I do! They’re not just easy but also packed with flavor that makes any meal feel special. They’re sure to become a favorite in your home! Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!