If you’re looking for a cozy comfort food that requires minimal effort, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! These Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} are not just any mashed potatoes; they are creamy, dreamy, and bursting with flavor. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to enjoy time with your family or tackle other tasks while this dish cooks to perfection.

This recipe is a beloved staple in my home for so many reasons. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, these mashed potatoes always steal the show. Plus, with the addition of roasted garlic and fresh herbs, they’re anything but ordinary!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Easy Prep: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic – no fuss!
Family Favorite: The creamy texture and rich flavor make these mashed potatoes a hit with kids and adults alike.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them ahead of time for busy evenings or special occasions.
Flavorful Twist: Roasted garlic adds an irresistible depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile Side Dish: Great with any protein or as part of your holiday feast – they fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes is simple! You only need a few wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious dish!

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, making it easy to adapt based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Add Cheese: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy twist!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or chives for a new flavor profile.
Creamy Alternatives: For dairy-free options, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or plant-based cream.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a little kick!

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 will help keep everything from sticking and make cleanup a breeze! Next, add in those hearty chunks of red potatoes along with fresh thyme and the roasted garlic cloves. Don’t forget to toss in the salted butter, salt, pepper, and chicken broth too! Cover it up and set your slow cooker to cook – choose high for 4-5 hours or low for 7-8 hours depending on your schedule.

Step 2: Mash It Up

Once it’s time to serve, carefully remove the lid. The smell will be incredible! Now it’s time to add the heavy cream according to your preference. Start with ⅓ cup; if you want an even creamier texture, go ahead and add up to ½ cup. Use a hand mixer for smooth mashed potatoes or a potato masher for that rustic feel – both methods work beautifully! Just be gentle when mixing; keep your speed low to avoid splatters.

Step 3: Season and Serve

Taste your mashed potatoes before serving; feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Finally, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Fold everything together gently before serving this beautiful dish at your table. Enjoy each creamy bite—you deserve it!

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

Making mashed potatoes in a slow cooker is a breeze with just a few simple tips to ensure they turn out perfectly creamy and flavorful!

Choose the right potatoes: Using red potatoes gives your mash a naturally creamy texture and a slight sweetness. Their waxy texture prevents them from becoming too starchy, resulting in the perfect consistency.
Don’t skip the roasted garlic: This is what sets your mashed potatoes apart! Roasting garlic softens its flavor, adding a mellow sweetness that enhances the overall taste of your dish.
Adjust cream to your preference: Start with ⅓ cup of heavy cream and adjust based on how creamy you want your potatoes. This lets you control the richness without overpowering the flavor.
Mix gently: When blending, use a hand mixer on low speed or opt for a potato masher for a rustic finish. Over-mixing can make your potatoes gummy, so take it easy!
Taste as you go: Always sample and adjust seasoning before serving. A dash more salt or pepper can really elevate your dish to perfection!

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}

Roasted garlic mashed potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile! They can be presented in various ways to suit any occasion, whether it’s an intimate dinner or a festive gathering.

Garnishes

Chopped chives: Add a sprinkle of fresh chives for a burst of color and mild onion flavor.
Shredded cheese: A light sprinkle of grated Parmesan or cheddar brings extra depth and richness.
Olive oil drizzle: A swirl of high-quality olive oil adds a touch of elegance and richness to the dish.

Side Dishes

Grilled vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus provide a crunchy contrast to creamy potatoes.
Herb-roasted chicken: Juicy chicken seasoned with fresh herbs complements the flavors of roasted garlic beautifully.
Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans add freshness and balance, making them an ideal sidekick.
Stuffed bell peppers: These colorful delights filled with quinoa or rice offer both nutrition and visual appeal alongside your mashed potatoes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress family and friends with your delicious roasted garlic mashed potatoes! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes whenever you need them. It’s a great dish to make ahead of time for busy weeknights or gatherings!

Storing Leftovers

Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

Place cooled mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
Freeze for up to 2 months.
For best results, divide into smaller portions for easy thawing.

Reheating

Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Stir well and heat until warmed through, adjusting seasoning as necessary.

FAQs

Have questions about making Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

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

Yes! While red potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or even russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may yield slightly different textures.

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

To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the salted butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) instead of heavy cream. The flavor will still be delicious!

What herbs can be added to enhance Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker}?

Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary, chives, or dill. These will complement the roasted garlic beautifully and add extra flavor dimensions!

Can I use fresh garlic instead of roasted garlic?

While you can use fresh garlic, roasting brings out a sweeter and milder flavor that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes. If you’re in a pinch, consider sautéing minced garlic before adding it to the slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Slow Cooker} recipe as much as I do! There’s something truly special about creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast—these potatoes will surely impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family!