If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that’s sure to make everyone at the table smile, look no further than these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}. This recipe is not just about mashed potatoes; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The combination of creamy potatoes and the rich flavor of roasted garlic makes it a special treat for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

I love how this recipe allows me to toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while I focus on other things. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a festive holiday feast, these mashed potatoes always steal the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super easy preparation: Just throw your ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do all the work for you!
Flavorful and creamy: The roasted garlic infuses each bite with delicious flavor, making these mashed potatoes irresistible.
Family-friendly dish: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! They’re perfect for kids and adults alike.
Make-ahead convenience: This dish is great for prepping in advance, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones.
Versatile side: Pair them with any protein or serve them at gatherings; they always fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a comforting side dish. Let’s gather what we 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! Here are some ideas to customize your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

Add cheese: Stir in some shredded cheddar or parmesan for a cheesy twist!
Go dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or your favorite non-dairy milk for a lighter version.
Mix in veggies: Fold in steamed broccoli or cauliflower for extra nutrition and color.
Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or chives to change up the flavor profile.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

Start by spraying the inside of a three-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up easier later on. Next, add in your red potato pieces along with fresh thyme, roasted garlic cloves, butter, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Cover it all up and let it simmer away. Cooking on high will take about 4-5 hours, while low takes around 7-8 hours—perfect for setting it and forgetting it!

Step 2: Cream It Up

Once your potatoes are fork-tender after cooking, it’s time to add the heavy cream. Begin with ⅓ cup and mix well; if you desire an even creamier texture, feel free to add up to a half cup. Here’s where you can really make these mashed potatoes shine! Use a hand mixer for smoothness or go rustic with a potato masher—your choice!

Step 3: Season and Serve

Finally, taste your mashed potatoes and adjust the seasoning if needed. A sprinkle of additional salt and pepper can elevate the flavors even more! Before serving, fold in some fresh chopped parsley for that lovely pop of color and freshness. Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful side dish that brings warmth to any meal!

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

Making the perfect roasted garlic mashed potatoes is all about technique and timing, so here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully creamy and flavorful!

Choose the right potatoes: Using red potatoes gives a naturally creamy texture and a hint of sweetness. Their waxy skin helps hold their shape during cooking, resulting in a delightful mouthfeel.
Don’t skip the roasting: Roasting garlic before adding it to your slow cooker enhances its sweetness and mellow flavor. Wrap your garlic in foil and roast it in the oven while the potatoes are cooking for an extra boost of flavor.
Adjust cream to taste: Start with less heavy cream and gradually add more until you achieve your desired creaminess. This way, you can customize the richness to suit your palate without overwhelming the natural flavors of the potatoes.
Use a hand mixer carefully: If you opt for a hand mixer, mix on low speed to avoid overworking the potatoes. This keeps them fluffy rather than gummy, ensuring that each bite is light and airy.
Taste as you go: Always taste your mashed potatoes before serving! Adjust salt, pepper, or even add more herbs to enhance the flavor profile according to your preference.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some creative ways to present this comforting dish at your next gathering or family dinner.

Garnishes

Chopped chives: Fresh chives add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the creamy potatoes perfectly.
Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of vegetarian-friendly Parmesan adds an umami kick that enhances the overall taste without overshadowing the garlic.
Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving can elevate your dish by adding richness and depth.

Side Dishes

Steamed green beans: These vibrant veggies bring a crunchy texture and fresh flavor that balances out the creaminess of the mashed potatoes.
Roasted Brussels sprouts: The caramelized edges of roasted Brussels sprouts provide a nutty contrast that pairs beautifully with the rich garlic flavor.
Herbed grilled chicken: Lightly seasoned grilled chicken offers protein without overpowering the flavors of your mashed potatoes, making it a perfect companion.
Simple garden salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and brightness to your meal.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll be ready to impress your family or guests with your delectable roasted garlic mashed potatoes made effortlessly in your slow cooker! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance and store them, making dinner time a breeze during busy weeks or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

Let the mashed potatoes cool fully.
Place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, ensuring to remove excess air.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Add a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making roasted garlic mashed potatoes in the slow cooker.

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

Yes, while red potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or even a mix of different potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

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

To achieve extra creaminess, start with ⅓ cup of heavy cream and gradually add more until you reach your desired texture. You can also incorporate a bit more butter for richness!

Can I add cheese to my mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Cheddar, cream cheese, or even goat cheese can elevate your roasted garlic mashed potatoes. Stir in shredded cheese after mashing for a melty delight.

What herbs pair well with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

In addition to thyme, consider using rosemary or chives for added flavor. Fresh herbs bring out the taste of the roasted garlic beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these roasted garlic mashed potatoes as much as I do! They’re creamy, satisfying, and full of flavor—perfect for any occasion from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite herbs and add-ins. Happy cooking, and may your meals be filled with warmth and deliciousness!