Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food to warm your soul, look no further! These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} are a cozy hug in a bowl. The rich flavor of roasted garlic combined with creamy potatoes makes this dish irresistible. Plus, they’re super easy to make, allowing you to focus on what really matters—spending time with your loved ones.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these mashed potatoes will steal the show. They are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and can complement almost any main dish. Trust me; once you serve these up, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple Preparation: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic while you relax or tackle other tasks.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The roasted garlic infuses each bite with a sweet, savory flavor that elevates classic mashed potatoes.
• Creamy Texture: You have control over how creamy your potatoes get by adjusting the amount of heavy cream or broth.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make these ahead of time! They reheat wonderfully and taste just as good the next day.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike love these mashed potatoes, making them a hit at any dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:

• 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 this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some tasty variation ideas:

• Add Cheese: Stir in some shredded cheese like cheddar or Parmesan for an extra creamy and cheesy flavor.
• Mix in Vegetables: Toss in some cooked cauliflower or carrots for added nutrition and a pop of color.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or chives for a unique twist that suits your taste.
• Make it Vegan: Swap out the butter for vegan butter and use plant-based cream to keep it dairy-free while still delicious.

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 prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup later. Add the prepared red potato pieces, fresh thyme, roasted garlic cloves, salted butter, salt, black pepper, and vegetable broth into the pot. Cover it up tight!

Step 2: Slow Cook

Set your slow cooker to cook on high for about 4-5 hours or on low for 7-8 hours. Cooking them slowly allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully while making the potatoes tender and fluffy.

Step 3: Creamy Bliss

Once cooked, it’s time to add creaminess! Start by pouring in ⅓ cup of heavy cream—if you prefer an even richer texture, go ahead and add up to ½ cup. Mix gently using a hand mixer on low speed or mash them with a potato masher for a rustic feel. Be careful not to overmix as this can make them gummy.

Step 4: Season & Serve

Taste your mashed potatoes and adjust seasoning if needed with more salt and pepper. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for that fresh touch before serving warm alongside your favorite main dishes. Enjoy every creamy bite!

With this recipe in hand, you’ll have an all-time favorite side ready to impress at any meal!

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

Making the perfect roasted garlic mashed potatoes is easier than you think, and these pro tips will help you achieve creamy, flavorful results every time!

• Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they have a waxy texture that holds up well during cooking, resulting in a creamy mash without being gluey.

• Roast your garlic ahead of time: Roasted garlic adds a rich, sweet flavor to your mashed potatoes. You can roast it in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. This allows the flavors to develop even more!

• Adjust the cream for your preference: Starting with ⅓ cup of heavy cream gives you control over the consistency. You can add more if you like your mashed potatoes extra creamy, but be cautious not to make them too runny.

• Mix carefully: When blending the potatoes, start on a low speed to avoid splattering. This technique ensures that you achieve a silky texture without overworking the potatoes.

• Season at the end: Taste your mashed potatoes before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. This final touch ensures that they are perfectly seasoned and enhances all those delicious flavors!

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are not just tasty; they’re also incredibly versatile! Here’s how you can present them beautifully and pair them with other dishes.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the mashed potatoes.

• Grated cheese: A light dusting of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano provides an extra layer of savory goodness that takes these mashed potatoes to new heights.

Side Dishes

• Honey-roasted carrots: These naturally sweet carrots bring a delightful contrast to savory mashed potatoes, making for a colorful and nutritious side.

• Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans add freshness and crunch to your meal, balancing out the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes beautifully.

• Herb-marinated grilled chicken: A simple yet flavorful grilled chicken seasoned with herbs pairs wonderfully with these rich mashed potatoes, creating a satisfying dinner option.

• Spinach salad with vinaigrette: A light spinach salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterbalance to the creaminess of the potatoes, rounding out your meal nicely.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to make your roasted garlic mashed potatoes truly shine at your next dinner gathering! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making them a fantastic addition to your weekly menu. You can prepare them ahead of time and enjoy the delicious flavors throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Let the mashed potatoes cool before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, use the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While red potatoes give a creamy texture, you can use Yukon Gold or even russet potatoes as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times if necessary.

How do I make Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the butter with plant-based butter and replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative.

What if I don’t have fresh thyme?

If you’re out of fresh thyme, dried thyme works well too. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are typically more concentrated.

Can I add cheese to my Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes?

Certainly! Adding shredded cheese like cheddar or gouda can enhance flavor. Stir it in after mashing for a delightful cheesy twist!

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

Cooking time typically ranges from 4-5 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low in your slow cooker. Just let them cook away while you focus on other dishes!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes! They are not only simple to prepare but also bring warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these creamy goodness will surely impress everyone at the table. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience with me—happy cooking!