As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself dreaming of cozy family gatherings filled with warmth and laughter. The central dish always seems to be a creamy bowl of mashed potatoes, but this year, I’m raising the bar with my Slow-Cooker Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Just imagine the intoxicating aroma of garlic mingling with buttery potatoes while you carry on with your holiday preparations.
With this hands-off recipe, you’ll have more time to focus on your favorite side dishes or perhaps even sneak in a moment of relaxation. These potatoes are not just any side—they’re velvety, rich morsels that melt in your mouth and create a comforting embrace with every bite. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any gathering where you want the food to leave an impression. So dust off that slow cooker and let’s dive into making these effortless yet unforgettable garlic mashed potatoes!
Why are Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes a hit?
Hands-Off Cooking: With a slow cooker, these delicious mashed potatoes require minimal effort—just toss in your ingredients and relax!
Irresistible Aroma: The blend of garlic and butter fills your kitchen with a savory scent that invites everyone to the table.
Creamy Texture: These potatoes achieve a velvety consistency that pairs beautifully with any dish, enhancing your holiday feast.
Versatile Ingredients: Adjust flavors by adding herbs or even cheese for a twist, making them perfect for any palate.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or holidays, they guarantee satisfied smiles and empty serving bowls.
Feeling pressed for time as you prepare other dishes? Check out our tips on storing make-ahead options for convenience!
Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking to the slow cooker; you can substitute with butter or oil if you’re out.
• Baby Potatoes (3 lbs, quartered) – Provides a creamy texture; regular potatoes can be used with adjusted cooking time.
• Butter (4 Tbsp) – Adds richness and flavor; use unsalted butter for more control over seasoning.
For the Flavor
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses aromatic flavor; feel free to adjust based on your preference for garlic.
• Water (1/4 cup) – Creates steam for cooking; essential for achieving the right consistency in your Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; can substitute with table salt, but adjust the amount due to potency.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Provides depth and a slight kick.
• Sour Cream (1/3 cup) – Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor; Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.
• Milk (1/4 cup) – Increases creaminess; using cream will yield richer mashed potatoes, while non-dairy milk is a great vegan option.
For the Herbs
• Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – Adds a lovely herbal flavor; fresh oregano can be used with a slight adjustment in quantity.
• Dried Rosemary (1/2 tsp) – Introduces a fragrant note; fresh rosemary works too, but reduce the amount.
• Chives (1 Tbsp, for garnish) – Brightens the dish with color and a fresh taste; substitute with green onions if needed.
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes
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Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. You can also use butter or a little oil if preferred. -
Add Ingredients:
Toss in your quartered baby potatoes, minced garlic, and butter. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then stir everything together until well combined. -
Cook the Potatoes:
Pour in the water, cover the slow cooker, and set it to cook on high for 3 hours or until the potatoes are fork-tender. They should be soft and easy to pierce with a knife. -
Mash and Season:
Once tender, add in the sour cream, milk, dried oregano, and dried rosemary. Mash the potatoes to your desired consistency—don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning for perfection! -
Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the chives over the top for a fresh, colorful finish. Serve directly from the slow cooker for warmth and convenience.
Optional: Serve with additional chives for extra flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture.
Reheating: If frozen, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add milk or butter to bring back the original silky smoothness of your Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes.
Make-Ahead Tip: These mashed potatoes can be kept on the warm setting in the slow cooker for up to 2 hours before serving, allowing you to focus on other dishes.
Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes Variations
Feel free to customize your Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes to create the perfect side dish for your family gatherings!
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Cheesy Twist:
Stir in grated parmesan or cheddar cheese during the mashing process for a rich, gooey finish. This extra layer of flavor will make your potatoes irresistible! -
Herb Medley:
Swap oregano and rosemary for thyme and parsley to create a fresh, herbal twist. Experimenting with herbs can elevate your mashed potatoes and add delightful flavors. -
Roasted Garlic:
Use roasted garlic instead of minced for a sweeter, mellower flavor that adds depth. This choice is perfect for those who love garlic but prefer a subtle hint rather than an intense bite. -
Vegan-Friendly:
Substitute sour cream and milk with non-dairy yogurt and almond or oat milk. You won’t sacrifice creaminess or taste, and your vegan friends will be thrilled! -
Spicy Kick:
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a fiery twist. This variation brings warmth and zest, perfect for adventurous eaters looking for extra excitement. -
Cream Cheese Infusion:
Mix in a few ounces of cream cheese when mashing for ultra-creamy potatoes. This makes for a decadent side dish that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats. -
Smoky Flavor:
Incorporate smoked paprika or a drizzle of liquid smoke for a unique, smoky taste that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a fun way to change your classic dish! -
Lemon Zing:
A squeeze of lemon juice stirred in after mashing brings a refreshing tang, balancing the richness. This bright addition will cut through the heaviness and add a lively note.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes
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Uniform Cuts: Ensure potatoes are cut into even-sized pieces. This promotes consistent cooking, making your Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes perfectly tender.
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Don’t Rush Mashing: Allow potatoes to steam off excess moisture before mashing. Over-mashing can lead to a gummy texture—take your time for that fluffy finish.
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Season Gradually: Start with less salt and pepper, tasting as you go. This helps prevent over-seasoning and ensures the flavors are just right in your Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes.
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Add in Cheese: For a cheesy twist, stir in grated parmesan or cheddar at the end of cooking. This adds an extra layer of flavor that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
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Keep Warm Setting: If preparing ahead, you can keep the mashed potatoes warm in your slow cooker until it’s time to serve. This keeps them creamy and ready to enjoy!
What to Serve with Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these creamy delights with other comforting favorites that will warm your heart.
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Savory Roasted Turkey: The rich flavors of turkey complement the buttery garlic mashed potatoes, creating a harmonious holiday feast.
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Creamy Gravy: Ladle over your mashed potatoes for an irresistible blend of savory goodness that enhances every bite.
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Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken: The garlicky notes will beautifully echo the mashed potatoes, providing a deliciously cohesive meal experience.
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Maple Glazed Carrots: Their sweet and tender profile offers a delightful contrast, adding both color and flavor to the plate.
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Garlic Green Beans: These fresh, vibrant green beans add a crispy texture and match the garlic theme for a perfectly pairable side.
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Stuffing: A cozy, herb-filled stuffing adds heartiness to the meal, making sure everyone leaves with full bellies and happy hearts.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tart and bright side that cuts through the richness of the mashed potatoes, providing a refreshing balance of flavors.
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Sparking Cider: Raise a toast with some crisp sparkling cider, enhancing your festive vibe while beautifully complementing the savory spread.
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Pumpkin Pie: End the meal with a classic slice of pumpkin pie, and watch as your guests continue to rave about your culinary prowess!
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prep the potatoes by washing, quartering, and storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. If you want to get even further ahead, you can also combine the seasoned potatoes, garlic, and butter in the slow cooker and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the water and set the slow cooker on high for 3 hours. To maintain their creamy texture, mash them right before serving to ensure they remain just as delicious and fluffy!
Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best baby potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for baby potatoes that are firm and smooth, without any dark spots or blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size and have a fresh aroma. If you can find Yukon Golds, they add a lovely buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the garlic!
What is the best way to store leftover mashed potatoes?
Very simple! Store leftover Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream and stir well for that creamy consistency you love. Microwaving them works best when you cover them with a damp paper towel to keep the moisture in.
Can I freeze mashed potatoes, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes, place them in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty zip-top bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. They will stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stovetop, adding milk or butter to restore creaminess.
What should I do if my mashed potatoes turn out gummy?
Oh no, that can happen! If your mashed potatoes become gummy, it’s often because they were over-mashed or had too much moisture. To fix this, you can try adding a little extra butter or cream and fold it in gently to break up the texture. In the future, make sure to mash them just until smooth to avoid gummy potatoes!
Are these garlic mashed potatoes suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This Kraut Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe can be easily adjusted for various dietary needs. Opt for non-dairy milk and Greek yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream for lactose intolerance. Moreover, they can be made gluten-free without any adjustments, as all the ingredients are naturally free from gluten. Always check labels on packaged products to ensure they’re safe for your specific dietary requirements.
Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Effortless Flavorful Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. You can also use butter or a little oil if preferred.
- Toss in your quartered baby potatoes, minced garlic, and butter. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then stir everything together until well combined.
- Pour in the water, cover the slow cooker, and set it to cook on high for 3 hours or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Once tender, add in the sour cream, milk, dried oregano, and dried rosemary. Mash the potatoes to your desired consistency.
- Before serving, sprinkle the chives over the top for a fresh, colorful finish. Serve directly from the slow cooker.