Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, and when you add the rich flavor of roasted garlic and the ease of a slow cooker, you’re in for a treat. Imagine a creamy, fluffy bowl of potatoes, full of buttery goodness, with just the right amount of garlicky kick. The best part? This recipe saves you time and stress by letting your slow cooker do all the work! If you're hosting a holiday meal, feeding a crowd, or simply craving something cozy on a weeknight, slow cooker garlic mashed potatoes are a lifesaver.
Not only does the slow cooker take care of the heavy lifting, but it also frees up your stovetop for other dishes. Plus, it keeps the mashed potatoes warm and ready to serve whenever you need them. No more last-minute kitchen frenzy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious dish, you’ll want to gather the following simple ingredients:
- 3 lbs (about 6 medium) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 6 cloves of garlic, peeled and left whole (roasted garlic also works if you prefer a milder flavor)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk, for a lighter option)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley, chives, or a drizzle of olive oil
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Peel your potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks. This ensures they cook at the same rate. Toss your garlic cloves and potatoes into the slow cooker.
Step 2: Cook Low and Slow
Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the potatoes and garlic. Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or LOW for 6-8 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 3: Mash It Up
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain any excess liquid. Add the butter, heavy cream, sour cream, salt, and pepper directly into the slow cooker. Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash everything until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Keep Warm
Switch the slow cooker to the "keep warm" setting until you're ready to serve. The slow cooker does an excellent job of maintaining the perfect temperature without drying out your potatoes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes
- Choose the Right Potato: Yukon Gold potatoes are naturally creamy, while Russet potatoes give you a light, fluffy texture. Combine the two and you’ll get the best of both worlds.
- Don’t Overwork the Potatoes: Mashing too much can result in a gummy texture. A potato masher is good for chunky mashed potatoes, while an immersion blender ensures ultra-smooth results.
- Roast Your Garlic First: For a sweet, mellow flavor, roast your garlic cloves in the oven before adding them. Simply wrap them in foil with a drizzle of olive oil and bake at 375°F for about 30 minutes.
- Add Flavor Boosts: Stir in grated Parmesan, cream cheese, or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra indulgence.
Perfect Pairings
Garlic mashed potatoes are a versatile side dish that goes with just about anything. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, beef pot roast, Thanksgiving turkey, or even a veggie-based main like mushroom stroganoff. For a comforting twist, top the potatoes with shredded cheddar and crumbled bacon before serving.
Variations to Try
- Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a pop of herbaceous flavor.
- Vegan-Friendly: Swap the butter for vegan margarine, heavy cream for almond or cashew milk, and sour cream for a dairy-free alternative.
- Loaded Potatoes: Stir in crispy bacon bits, sharp cheddar cheese, and green onions for a loaded baked potato feel.
Creamy, flavorful, and ridiculously easy—slow cooker garlic mashed potatoes are the no-fuss side that will elevate any meal. By letting time and gentle heat work their magic, you’ll whip up a dish that’s bound to become a new family favorite. Pull out your slow cooker and dig in! A big, warm bowl of happiness awaits.
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