If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting side dish, look no further than these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners at home. The creamy texture combined with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and fresh thyme makes these mashed potatoes a family favorite. Plus, using the slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions!

These mashed potatoes are not just delicious; they also bring everyone together around the table. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, they are sure to impress your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can let your slow cooker do all the work while you relax.
Incredible flavor: Roasting the garlic infuses these mashed potatoes with a deep, savory flavor that takes them to the next level.
Family-friendly comfort food: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! They’re creamy, buttery, and oh-so-satisfying.
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare them earlier in the day and keep them warm in the slow cooker until you’re ready to serve.
Customizable creaminess: You can adjust the amount of heavy cream based on how rich you want your potatoes to be.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious side dish!

Ingredients:
– 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 {Slow Cooker} is how flexible they can be! Here are some fun variations to try:

Add cheese: Stir in some grated parmesan or cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Herb swap: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or chives for a unique twist.
Crispy topping: Sprinkle some crispy onions on top before serving for added crunch.
Vegan option: Substitute the butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk instead of heavy cream.

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 important step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze later on. Next, add your prepared red potatoes, fresh thyme, roasted garlic cloves, butter, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Give everything a gentle stir to combine before covering it up.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your slow cooker on high for about 4-5 hours or low for 7-8 hours. This slow cooking method ensures that all those lovely flavors meld together beautifully while keeping the potatoes tender and fluffy. It’s always exciting to come back to a warm meal after a busy day!

Step 3: Cream It Up!

Once your cooking time is up, check those potatoes for tenderness. Now comes one of my favorite parts—adding heavy cream! Start by adding ⅓ cup; if you prefer an even creamier texture, go ahead and add up to ½ cup. Keep in mind that using regular milk will give you less richness.

Step 4: Mash It Up!

Using a hand mixer or potato masher, blend those delicious ingredients together until you reach your desired consistency. If using an electric mixer, be careful not to get too close to the base of the crockpot—this could lead to messy splatters! Taste test your masterpiece and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 5: Serve with Love

Finally, sprinkle some chopped parsley over the top before serving. This little touch adds color and freshness that brightens up your dish. Enjoy these creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes as a comforting side that everyone will love!

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

Making roasted garlic mashed potatoes in the slow cooker is a wonderful way to ensure a creamy and flavorful side dish with minimal effort. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results!

Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes work best for this recipe because their waxy texture creates a creamy finish without becoming gummy. They also have a lovely, buttery flavor that complements the roasted garlic beautifully.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme adds a delightful aroma and taste to your mashed potatoes. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh will elevate the flavor profile significantly.
Roast your garlic properly: Roasting garlic not only mellows its sharpness but also enhances its sweetness. Make sure to wrap the head of garlic in foil and roast it until it’s golden brown and soft for maximum flavor.
Adjust cream to taste: Starting with ⅓ cup of heavy cream allows you to control the creaminess of your mashed potatoes. Remember, you can always add more if you prefer them richer!
Mix gently: When blending or mashing, take care not to overmix. Overworking the potatoes can lead to a gluey texture, so mix just until combined for that perfect fluffy feel.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are not only delicious but versatile enough to accompany many meals. Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting side dish!

Garnishes

Chopped chives: A sprinkle of chopped chives adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the potatoes.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Although it’s not animal-derived gelatin, if you’re okay with dairy, adding a bit of grated Parmesan can give an extra layer of umami flavor.
Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of quality olive oil before serving adds depth and richness while keeping it plant-based.

Side Dishes

Roasted vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized make an excellent pairing.
Grilled chicken: Juicy grilled chicken seasoned with herbs pairs wonderfully with these creamy mashed potatoes, making it a satisfying meal.
Lentil salad: A hearty lentil salad packed with fresh veggies and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the mashed potatoes.
Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans bring brightness and color to your plate, balancing out the creamy texture with their freshness.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your roasted garlic mashed potatoes will be sure to impress at any gathering or weeknight dinner! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are perfect for meal prep! They taste just as delicious the next day, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Let the mashed potatoes cool before portioning.
Place them in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

Thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed for creaminess.
Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, stirring every minute until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} with other types of potatoes?

Absolutely! You can experiment with Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

How do I achieve creamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}?

For an ultra-creamy texture, use heavy cream rather than milk. Don’t hesitate to add more cream gradually until you reach your desired consistency!

Can I use fresh garlic instead of roasted garlic?

While roasted garlic provides a sweet and mellow flavor, you can use fresh garlic if that’s what you have on hand. Just sauté it briefly before adding it to the slow cooker to mellow its sharpness.

What herbs pair well with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Besides thyme, consider adding rosemary or chives for a delightful twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these roasted garlic mashed potatoes as much as I do! They bring a wonderful flavor and comfort to any meal. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering with friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with me!