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Creamy Slow Cooker Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Imagine coming home to a warm, inviting aroma of garlic mashed potatoes wafting through your house. These slow cooker garlic mashed potatoes are the epitome of comfort food – creamy, buttery, and infused with the rich flavor of garlic. Perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts, this recipe is as simple as it is satisfying.
Pair these mashed potatoes with stuffed acorn squash for a festive meal.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have these velvety mashed potatoes cooking away while you focus on other dishes. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, giving you a side dish that not only complements any meal but also makes your kitchen smell heavenly.
If you’re a fan of garlic, try these roasted potatoes as another side option.
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Slow Cooker Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy Slow Cooker Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Course: Meal Prep for HolidaysCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes8
hours310
kcalThese garlic mashed potatoes are fluffy and rich, thanks to the slow cooking process that allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The garlic adds depth, while the cream and butter create a luxurious, smooth texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
1 cup heavy cream or milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into chunks, then place them in the slow cooker.
- Add Garlic and Butter: Sprinkle the minced garlic over the potatoes and add the cubed butter on top.
- Cook: Pour in enough water to cover the potatoes. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Mash: Once cooked, drain excess water. Add heavy cream or milk, then mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and enjoy!
Notes
Key Prep Tips
- Use the Right Potatoes: Yukon gold or russet potatoes yield the creamiest mashed potatoes due to their starch content.
- Don’t Skip the Garlic: Sauté the garlic before adding it to the slow cooker to mellow its flavor and avoid bitterness.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low allows the potatoes to absorb the garlic and cream flavors fully.
- Mash Carefully: Use a potato masher or ricer for a smooth texture. Avoid overmixing to prevent gummy mashed potatoes.
- Warm Ingredients: Warm the cream and butter before mashing to keep the potatoes fluffy and smooth.
Suggested Variations
- Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in shredded Parmesan, cheddar, or Gruyère for a cheesy twist.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or chives to enhance the flavor.
- Low-Calorie Option: Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or milk for a lighter version.
- Add Bacon: Mix in crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky, savory addition.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday Side: Pair with roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib for a perfect holiday feast.
- Topping Bar: Create a mashed potato bar with toppings like sour cream, chives, crispy onions, and shredded cheese.
- Comfort Meal: Serve alongside meatloaf or grilled chicken for a hearty, comforting dinner.
- Gravy Pairing: Drizzle with turkey or beef gravy to enhance the creamy texture and flavor.
- Leftover Idea: Use leftover mashed potatoes to make crispy potato cakes or shepherd’s pie.