Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and delicious, look no further than these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser and has earned its place as a favorite in my kitchen. The rich flavors of roasted garlic combined with creamy potatoes make it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe special is how simple it is to prepare while still delivering that homemade goodness. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy dinner or serving it at your next holiday feast, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just throw everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves mashed potatoes, making this a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can set it and forget it until you’re ready to enjoy.
• Delicious Flavor: The roasted garlic adds a depth of flavor that elevates traditional mashed potatoes.
• Perfectly Creamy: Adjust the creaminess to your liking for those velvety mashed potatoes we all crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create the perfect side dish. Gather these items before you start cooking:

• 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 quite flexible, allowing you to customize it to suit your tastes! Here are a few variations you might consider:

• Add Cheese: Stir in some grated parmesan or cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy twist.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or chives for unique flavors.
• Creamy Alternative: Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter option.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by spraying the inside of a three-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier later on. Next, add in those beautiful red potato pieces along with fresh thyme, roasted garlic cloves, butter, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic!

Step 2: Cook Until Tender

Set your slow cooker on high for about 4 to 5 hours or low for 7 to 8 hours. Cooking them slowly allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring those potatoes become tender and easy to mash.

Step 3: Mash It Up

Once they’re done cooking, it’s time to add the heavy cream according to your preference. Start with ⅓ cup and adjust based on how creamy you want them. Remember that while regular milk can be used as an alternative, it won’t deliver that luscious richness! Use a hand mixer for smooth mashed potatoes or opt for a potato masher if you prefer some texture. Just be cautious when blending—go slow to avoid splatters.

Step 4: Final Touches

Taste your mashed potatoes and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Finally, sprinkle on some chopped parsley before serving. This adds not only color but also a fresh burst of flavor that elevates every bite!

And there you have it—creamy, dreamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes made right in your slow cooker! Enjoy every spoonful!

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

These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are already delicious, but with a few expert tips, you can take them to the next level!

• Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes work wonderfully for this recipe due to their creamy texture and ability to hold shape. They provide a smooth and rich base for your mashed potatoes.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme adds a delightful aromatic flavor that complements the roasted garlic beautifully. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs will enhance the taste significantly.

• Adjust creaminess to your liking: Start with ⅓ cup of heavy cream and gradually add more based on your preference. This allows you to control the consistency, ensuring your mashed potatoes are just how you want them!

• Mix carefully: When blending, use a low speed on your hand mixer to prevent overmixing, which can lead to gummy potatoes. If you prefer a rustic texture, simply mash by hand instead.

• Season at the end: Taste your mashed potatoes before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Adding salt and pepper at the end helps you achieve the perfect flavor balance without overpowering the dish.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

These creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes make a fantastic centerpiece for any meal! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, here are some great ideas for presenting this dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a burst of color and mild onion flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the potatoes.
• Shaved Parmesan: While avoiding animal-derived products is important, consider using plant-based Parmesan alternatives that offer cheesy notes without compromising dietary needs.
• Extra roasted garlic: For those who truly love garlic, add a few extra roasted cloves on top for an aromatic touch and enhanced flavor.

Side Dishes

• Steamed green beans: Their bright color and crunchy texture provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy mashed potatoes. A squeeze of lemon juice elevates their flavor even more!
• Honey-glazed carrots: Sweet and tender carrots drizzled with honey create an appealing balance between sweet and savory flavors.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed in olive oil make for a vibrant addition that complements mashed potatoes perfectly.
• Simple garden salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing offers freshness and lightness alongside these hearty mashed potatoes.

Now that you’re equipped with these pro tips and serving suggestions, I hope you’re excited to whip up this comforting dish! Enjoy every creamy bite of your roasted garlic mashed potatoes made in the slow cooker!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and enjoy the creamy goodness throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the mashed potatoes cool completely.
• Portion them into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed for creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes in the slow cooker:

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

Absolutely! While red potatoes give a lovely texture and flavor, you can also use Yukon gold or russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may yield slightly different flavors and creaminess.

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

To make this recipe vegan, simply swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative and replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy milk of your choice. It will still be delicious!

Is it possible to add more flavor to Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Certainly! Feel free to mix in additional herbs like rosemary or chives, or even stir in some grated vegan cheese for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these creamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes! They are not only easy to whip up but also bring a comforting warmth to any meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these mashed potatoes will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!