Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

If you’re looking for a delicious side dish that’s sure to impress, these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} are exactly what you need! Perfectly creamy, infused with the rich flavor of roasted garlic, and made effortlessly in your slow cooker, this recipe is a favorite in my kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, these mashed potatoes are always a hit.

What I love most about this recipe is how you can set it and forget it. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you attend to other tasks. The result? A comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with any main course!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, making mashed potatoes has never been easier!
• Flavorful Twist: The addition of roasted garlic gives these potatoes an incredible depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: You can make a big batch ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready to serve.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love creamy mashed potatoes! This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Versatile Side Dish: These mashed potatoes fit perfectly with anything from roasted chicken to veggie burgers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create the ultimate creamy goodness:

• 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 these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is their flexibility! Feel free to play around with different flavors and textures. Here are some fun variations:

• Add cheese: Mix in some shredded cheddar or cream cheese for an extra creamy and cheesy twist.
• Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil for unique flavors.
• Vegan option: Swap out the butter and heavy cream for vegan alternatives like olive oil and coconut milk.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a little heat!

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 helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier later on! Next, add in your cut red potatoes, fresh thyme, roasted garlic cloves, salted butter, salt, black pepper, and vegetable broth. Cover it up and let it cook—this is where the magic happens!

Step 2: Let It Cook

Cook your mixture on high for about 4-5 hours or on low for about 7-8 hours. The longer cooking time allows those flavors to deepen and meld together beautifully. You’ll know they’re ready when the potatoes are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork.

Step 3: Creamy Blending

Once your potatoes are fully cooked, it’s time to add that luscious heavy cream! Start with about ⅓ cup; if you want an even creamier texture, go ahead and add more until it reaches your desired consistency. Use a hand mixer or potato masher—whichever suits your style—to blend them until they’re smooth and fluffy. Just remember to mix slowly so you don’t splash any!

Step 4: Season & Serve

Taste your mashed potatoes and adjust seasoning as needed with more salt and pepper if desired. Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving—it adds a nice pop of color! Enjoy these delightful Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes at your next meal; they’re sure to be a crowd pleaser!

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

Making the perfect roasted garlic mashed potatoes is all about the little details that elevate the dish from good to spectacular. Here are some tips to ensure your mashed potatoes turn out creamy and flavorful every time!

• Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their waxy texture, which helps create a creamy consistency without becoming gummy.

• Roast your garlic properly: When roasting your garlic, ensure it’s well-cooked until soft and caramelized; this brings out its sweet flavor and adds depth to your mashed potatoes.

• Don’t rush the cooking time: Allowing the potatoes to cook thoroughly in the slow cooker is essential. If they are undercooked, they won’t mash properly, resulting in a chunky texture instead of a smooth finish.

• Adjust cream to taste: Start with a smaller amount of heavy cream and add more gradually. This way, you can achieve your desired creaminess without making them overly rich.

• Mix gently: When blending or mashing the potatoes, do so gently to avoid activating too much starch, which can lead to gluey mashed potatoes.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

Serving roasted garlic mashed potatoes is an opportunity to showcase their comforting, rich flavor. Here are some ideas on how you can present this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and enhances the flavor.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top gives an elegant touch while adding richness.
• Toasted nuts: Crushed walnuts or pecans offer a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.

Side Dishes

• Grilled vegetables: Brightly colored grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus complement the richness of the mashed potatoes while providing a healthy balance.
• Stuffed bell peppers: These can be filled with quinoa or rice mixed with beans for a hearty vegetarian option that pairs well with creamy sides.
• Roasted chicken: A simple herb-seasoned roasted chicken provides a savory protein that rounds out your meal beautifully.
• Green salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the warm, comforting mashed potatoes, making for a well-rounded plate.

Now you’re all set to enjoy your delicious roasted garlic mashed potatoes! Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or an impressive side at your next gathering, these creamy delights will surely steal the show. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy delicious, creamy mashed potatoes whenever you need them.

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 days.

Freezing

• Let the mashed potatoes cool before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can add a splash of broth or cream to help restore creaminess during reheating.

FAQs

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

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

Yes! While red potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, you can experiment with Yukon Gold or even russet potatoes for different flavors and textures.

How do I ensure my Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} turn out creamy?

Start by adding heavy cream gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Using a hand mixer will also help achieve that smooth texture, but be cautious not to overmix!

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

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or coconut cream. Just adjust the quantity according to your taste.

How long does it take to cook Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}?

Cooking time varies between 4-5 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low. The longer they cook, the more tender they’ll become!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes in your slow cooker as much as I do! They’re rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor—perfect for any dinner table or holiday feast. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!