Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

If you’re looking for a cozy and delicious side dish that will impress your family and friends, then you’re in for a treat with these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}. There’s something so comforting about mashed potatoes, but adding roasted garlic elevates them to a whole new level. The best part? You can whip them up effortlessly in your slow cooker!

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a family gathering. With just a little prep time, you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as they cook. Trust me; once you try this creamy goodness, it will become a staple on your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! This version is packed with flavor and perfect for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance for gatherings or meal prep. These mashed potatoes reheat beautifully!
• Delicious Flavor: The roasted garlic adds a sweet richness that transforms ordinary mashed potatoes into something extraordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a breeze with these simple, wholesome ingredients. You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or local grocery store!

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 a few ideas to customize your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

• Add Cheese: Mix in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan for an extra cheesy twist.
• Herb Infusion: Swap out thyme for other herbs like rosemary or chives for different flavor profiles.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use plant-based cream to keep it dairy-free.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a hint of heat.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by spraying the inside of your three-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. This step ensures easy cleanup later on! Next, add the prepared red potatoes along with fresh thyme, roasted garlic cloves, salted butter, salt, black pepper, and vegetable broth. Cover it up and let those flavors mingle as you choose either the high setting for 4-5 hours or low for 7-8 hours.

Step 2: Mash It Up!

Once your cooking time is up, it’s time to make those potatoes creamy! Start by adding heavy cream according to your personal preference—if you like them super creamy, go ahead and add the full ½ cup. A hand mixer works wonders here; just be sure to mix slowly at first to avoid splattering. If you prefer a more rustic texture, grab your trusty potato masher instead!

Step 3: Final Touches

After blending to your desired consistency, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. A sprinkle of additional salt and pepper can make all the difference! Finally, fold in some chopped parsley for freshness before serving. Your Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are ready to shine on your dinner table!

Enjoy every creamy bite of these delightful mashed potatoes!

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

Creating the perfect roasted garlic mashed potatoes can truly elevate your meal, and I’m here to help with a few pro tips!

• Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes are fantastic for this recipe because they have a creamy texture when cooked and mashed. Their skin also adds a lovely color and flavor.

• Don’t rush the roasting: If you’re roasting garlic from scratch, allow it to caramelize properly in the oven. This deepens the flavor and ensures that your mashed potatoes will be infused with that sweet, nutty aroma.

• Adjust cream to taste: Start by adding just ⅓ cup of heavy cream, and then gradually increase until you reach your desired creaminess. This way, you control the texture without risking overly liquidy potatoes.

• Mix on low speed: When using a hand mixer, start on a low speed to avoid splattering and to achieve the perfect consistency without overworking the potatoes.

• Taste before serving: Always give your mashed potatoes a quick taste before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference in enhancing those delicious flavors!

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are not only delicious but can also be presented beautifully on any dining table. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a splash of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the potatoes.
• Shaved Parmesan cheese: While not vegan, using dairy-free cheese alternatives as a garnish can add an extra layer of flavor if you’re looking for that cheesy touch.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top enhances both flavor and presentation, creating an inviting shine.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their slightly bitter taste balances the creamy richness of the mashed potatoes perfectly while adding a lovely crunch.
• Garlic butter green beans: Tender green beans sautéed with garlic and butter offer freshness and a burst of color that pairs wonderfully with rich potato dishes.
• Grilled chicken or tofu skewers: These provide a delicious protein option alongside your mashed potatoes, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the mashed potatoes, refreshing your palate with every bite.

Now you’re all set to enjoy these roasted garlic mashed potatoes from the slow cooker! Whether it’s for a family dinner or special gatherings, this dish is sure to impress everyone around the table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy creamy comfort food throughout the week. You can prepare them in advance and store them, ensuring you have delicious side dishes ready for any occasion.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the mashed potatoes cool completely.
• Scoop into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat in a pot over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For a creamier texture, add a splash of broth or cream while reheating.

FAQs

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

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

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with regular milk or even plant-based milk. However, be aware that using regular milk will yield less creamy results.

How do I store Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

While red potatoes create a creamy texture, you can use Yukon Gold or even russet potatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Adjust cooking times accordingly as different potatoes may cook at different rates.

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

In a slow cooker, they take about 4-5 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low. This makes them perfect for busy days!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these roasted garlic mashed potatoes as much as I do! They’re not just delicious but also incredibly comforting and versatile, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and make them your own! Happy cooking!