Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

If you’re looking for a cozy side dish that warms the heart and pleases the palate, you’ve come to the right place! My Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} are a family favorite that I love sharing with friends. The sweet, buttery flavor of roasted garlic combined with creamy potatoes makes it a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work, so you can spend more time enjoying your loved ones.

These mashed potatoes are not just delicious; they also bring a touch of comfort to any meal. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these creamy delights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic while you focus on other tasks.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: With rich roasted garlic and fresh herbs, every spoonful is packed with flavor that everyone will adore.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them ahead of time and keep them warm until serving.
• Customizable Creaminess: Adjust the heaviness with cream to suit your taste—perfect for those who love their potatoes ultra-creamy!
• Versatile for Occasions: These mashed potatoes fit seamlessly into any meal—be it a weekday dinner or a festive gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is simple and straightforward! You might already have some of these wholesome items in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some variations to try:

• Herb Infusion: Add your favorite herbs like rosemary or chives for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some grated cheese like cheddar or parmesan for a cheesy twist.
• Vegan Alternative: Swap out the butter and heavy cream for plant-based options like olive oil and coconut cream.
• Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Top with sautéed mushrooms or crispy onions for added texture.

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 will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier later on. Next, add in those beautiful red potatoes along with fresh thyme and roasted garlic cloves. The garlic will infuse its sweetness into the potatoes as they cook, creating an irresistible aroma!

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Now it’s time to add butter, salt, pepper, and vegetable broth to the mix. The butter adds richness while the broth helps steam the potatoes perfectly. Give everything a gentle stir to combine all those wonderful flavors before covering it up. Cook on high for about 4-5 hours or low for 7-8 hours—this part is where patience pays off!

Step 3: Creamy Finishing Touches

When your cooking time is up, it’s time to bring out that creaminess! Start by adding in heavy cream according to your preference—begin with ⅓ cup and go up to ½ cup if you’d like it extra velvety. Use a hand mixer or potato masher to blend until smooth. Mixing on low speed helps avoid splatters while ensuring every potato gets beautifully whipped!

Step 4: Season & Serve

Finally, taste your glorious mashed potatoes and adjust seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference! Before serving, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Now you’re ready to enjoy your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} alongside any meal!

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

Making roasted garlic mashed potatoes in the slow cooker is a breeze, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes are great for a creamy texture, but feel free to mix in Yukon Golds for added flavor. They hold their shape well during cooking and create that velvety smoothness we all love.

• Don’t skip the roasting: Roasting garlic brings out its natural sweetness and mellows its sharpness, making your mashed potatoes rich and flavorful. If you’re short on time, you can roast garlic in advance or use pre-roasted garlic available at many grocery stores.

• Creaminess control: Start with ⅓ cup of heavy cream and adjust based on your preference. This way, you can achieve the perfect creaminess without making it too runny from the get-go.

• Mix wisely: Use a hand mixer on a low setting to avoid overmixing. Overmixing can make your mashed potatoes gummy instead of fluffy. If you enjoy a chunkier texture, opt for a potato masher instead.

• Season generously: Taste as you go! Adding salt and pepper at each stage helps build layers of flavor, ensuring your mashed potatoes are deliciously seasoned.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

Presenting your roasted garlic mashed potatoes beautifully enhances the dining experience. Here are some delightful ideas for serving this creamy dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving can enhance richness and add an elegant touch.
• Toasted nuts: Chopped walnuts or pine nuts add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus tossed with olive oil and grilled until tender offer a vibrant complement to the richness of the mashed potatoes.

• Roasted Chicken: Juicy roasted chicken pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, allowing you to soak up those delicious flavors with each bite.

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a fresh, crisp element that balances the dish’s creaminess while providing a healthy contrast.

• Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides refreshing acidity that cuts through the rich flavors of the mashed potatoes.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to impress your family or guests with your slow-cooked roasted garlic mashed potatoes! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat for maximum flavor and convenience.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
• When ready to eat, check for seasoning and add a splash of broth or cream if needed!

Freezing

• Let the mashed potatoes cool completely before freezing.
• Portion them into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (flatten bags for easy stacking).
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a little broth or cream to restore creaminess if necessary.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, mixing well between each interval.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

While red potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can use Yukon Gold or even Russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

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

To make this dish vegan, simply replace the butter with plant-based butter and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk for a creamy texture.

What can I serve with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}?

These mashed potatoes make an excellent side dish for various meals, including roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or any hearty vegetarian main dish. They pair wonderfully with our favorite comfort foods!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes in your slow cooker as much as I do! This recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to bring warmth to your table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these mashed potatoes will surely impress. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe out; I’m confident it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen!