Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s both creamy and packed with flavor, look no further than these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}. This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting family gatherings. The slow cooker does all the hard work while you go about your day, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Plus, who can resist the rich taste of roasted garlic paired with buttery potatoes? Trust me, this dish will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

These mashed potatoes are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re serving them at Thanksgiving dinner or enjoying them as a side dish during a cozy family meal, they are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the magic. Perfect for any skill level!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The creamy texture and savory taste make these mashed potatoes a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Cook them in advance and keep them warm in the slow cooker until it’s time to serve.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for any meal—pair them with roasted chicken, beef stew, or enjoy on their own!
• Deliciously Aromatic: The addition of roasted garlic elevates this classic dish to something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is super simple! You’ll only need a few wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather them together!

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! Feel free to get creative and customize it to suit your taste buds.

• Add More Herbs: Consider adding rosemary or chives for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some grated cheese like Parmesan or cheddar for a cheesy twist.
• Creamy Alternative: If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt for tangy creaminess.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat!

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by spraying the inside of your three-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. This little step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier later on. Next, add the chopped red potatoes, fresh thyme, roasted garlic cloves, butter, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Cover it up and let it cook on high for 4-5 hours or low for 7-8 hours. The long cooking time allows all those lovely flavors to meld beautifully together!

Step 2: Blend It Up

Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to elevate those potatoes into creamy perfection! Add the heavy cream according to your preference—start with ⅓ cup and feel free to add more if you’d like them extra creamy. A hand mixer works wonders here; just mix on low speed to prevent splatters. If you prefer a chunkier texture, grab a potato masher instead! Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 3: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle some chopped parsley over the top for that beautiful pop of color! Gently fold it into the mashed potatoes before serving. These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are now ready to be enjoyed! They’re perfect alongside any meal or even as a comforting bowl all on their own.

I hope you love making these as much as I do! Enjoy every creamy bite!

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

Creating the perfect roasted garlic mashed potatoes is easy with a few helpful tips!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme adds a wonderful aromatic flavor that elevates these mashed potatoes. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs truly enhance the overall taste.
• Adjust the creaminess: Start with ⅓ cup of heavy cream and adjust according to your preference. This flexibility allows you to customize the richness of your mashed potatoes, making them just how you like.
• Avoid overmixing: If you’re using a hand mixer, keep it on low speed and avoid mixing too long. Overmixing can turn your potatoes gummy instead of creamy, so gentle blending is key.
• Consider adding extras: For an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing in sautéed onions or chives after mashing. These additions can give your mashed potatoes a unique twist and make them even more delightful.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

Serving your roasted garlic mashed potatoes in a beautiful way can enhance their appeal at any meal. Here are some ideas to present this delicious dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the creamy potatoes.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: For those who enjoy cheese, a light dusting of grated Parmesan can add depth and richness to each bite.
• Olive oil drizzle: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving not only looks stunning but also adds an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds both color and nutrition. Its crispness provides a nice contrast to the creamy potatoes.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet and caramelized roasted carrots bring a touch of sweetness and add visual appeal next to the mashed potatoes.
• Grilled chicken: Lean grilled chicken seasoned with herbs makes for a satisfying protein that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the mash.
• Mixed greens salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette balances out the richness of the mashed potatoes while adding freshness to your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with these delicious roasted garlic mashed potatoes! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy their rich, creamy goodness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Place the cooled mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Seal tightly, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, use the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes in a slow cooker.

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

Absolutely! While red potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or even russet potatoes. Just be mindful that different potatoes may yield slightly different textures.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}?

To elevate the flavor, consider adding more herbs such as rosemary or chives. You can also mix in some cream cheese or sour cream for extra richness!

Can I make these mashed potatoes vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the butter with a vegan alternative and use plant-based milk instead of heavy cream. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegan version.

What should I serve with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or your favorite vegetarian main dish. They make a great side for any dinner!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes! Their creamy texture and delicious flavors will surely warm your heart and home. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering; it’s bound to be a hit! Happy cooking!