If you’re looking for a cozy side dish that warms the heart and soul, then these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} are just what you need! This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home because it combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic with creamy potatoes, all effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker. Imagine coming home to the delightful aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen after a long day. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these mashed potatoes will surely become a go-to comfort food that everyone loves!

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and the way it brings people together around the dinner table. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a regular Tuesday night, these mashed potatoes are always a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax or take care of other tasks.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of roasted garlic and fresh thyme infuses these mashed potatoes with an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Creamy Customization: You can adjust the creaminess to your liking, making them as rich as you desire!
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time! They hold up wonderfully in the fridge and can be reheated for quick meals.
Family-Friendly Favorite: These mashed potatoes appeal to both kids and adults alike, making them an ideal side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these scrumptious mashed potatoes. You might already have most of these at home!

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 adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

Add Cheese: Stir in some shredded cheese like cheddar or parmesan before serving for an extra cheesy twist.
Herb Infusion: Mix in other herbs like rosemary or chives if you’re in the mood for something different!
Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use non-dairy milk instead of heavy cream.
Add Veggies: Toss in some steamed cauliflower or carrots for added nutrition and flavor while mashing.

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 little step ensures easy cleanup later on! Next, add your chopped red potatoes along with fresh thyme, roasted garlic cloves, salted butter, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. This mixture will create a beautiful blend of flavors as it cooks slowly.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and set it on high for about 4-5 hours or low for 7-8 hours. It’s important not to rush this part; slow cooking allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully. Just imagine how wonderful your kitchen will smell during this time!

Step 3: Creamy Bliss

Once cooked, it’s time to add your heavy cream based on how creamy you want your mashed potatoes. Start with ⅓ cup – if you prefer them even creamier, feel free to add up to ½ cup! Using a hand mixer gives you that perfectly smooth texture, but if you’re feeling more rustic, a potato masher works just as well. Just remember to mix gently so you don’t scratch your crockpot.

Step 4: Final Touches

Taste your glorious mash! Adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper if needed. Finally, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness before serving. Enjoy every bite of these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes made right in your slow cooker!

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

Making the perfect roasted garlic mashed potatoes is a breeze with a few helpful tips!

Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. They hold their shape well during cooking, resulting in perfectly smooth mashed potatoes.
Don’t rush the roasting: If you’re roasting your garlic at home, make sure to give it enough time in the oven. Roasting enhances the sweetness and mellows out the garlic’s sharpness, making your mashed potatoes rich and flavorful.
Adjust the creaminess: Start with ⅓ cup of heavy cream and adjust according to your preference. This flexibility lets you achieve the perfect creamy texture without overwhelming the dish.
Use a hand mixer for smoothness: A hand mixer can create a wonderfully smooth consistency, but be careful not to overmix. If you prefer a chunkier texture, stick with a potato masher for a more rustic feel.
Season incrementally: Taste as you go! Adding salt and pepper gradually allows you to get just the right balance of flavors without overpowering the dish.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile in how you can present them at your table.

Garnishes

Chopped chives: Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor that brightens up the dish beautifully.
Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, melts into the warm potatoes for added richness.
Extra roasted garlic cloves: For those who truly love garlic, adding whole roasted cloves on top adds both flavor and an appealing presentation.

Side Dishes

Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus provide a colorful contrast and complement the creamy potatoes perfectly.
Lemon-herb roasted chicken: Juicy chicken seasoned with fresh herbs pairs beautifully with these mashed potatoes, creating a wholesome meal.
Steamed green beans: The bright crunch of green beans adds freshness and color to your plate while balancing out the richness of the potatoes.
Garden salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette offers a refreshing bite that complements the comforting flavors of the mashed potatoes.

These serving ideas will transform your roasted garlic mashed potatoes into an inviting centerpiece for any meal! Enjoy every creamy bite!

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 and manage leftovers effectively.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

Portion the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
For best results, try to remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.

Reheating

Thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to regain creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about these delicious Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}.

Can I make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with regular milk, but keep in mind that this will result in a less creamy texture. For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened plant-based milk alternatives like almond or oat milk.

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

You can add a variety of herbs such as rosemary or chives for extra flavor. A sprinkle of cheese, such as nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option, can also enhance taste while keeping it creamy!

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While red potatoes work wonderfully for their creamy texture, you can experiment with Yukon Gold or even Russet potatoes. Just remember that each type may yield slightly different textures and flavors.

How do I prevent my mashed potatoes from being gummy?

To avoid gummy mashed potatoes, don’t over-mix them. Use a hand mixer on low speed or a potato masher for a rustic finish. Mixing too vigorously activates starches that can lead to gumminess.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes! They’re not only easy to prepare but also incredibly comforting and flavorful. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special occasion, these creamy delights are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!