Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes Recipe
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both comforting and easy to prepare, you’ll love this slow cooker garlic mashed potatoes recipe.
I adore how simple it’s to whip up creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and you can focus on the main dish or relax with your family.
The garlic infuses the potatoes with a delightful aroma, making them irresistible. Plus, they turn out perfectly creamy every time, thanks to the slow cooking process.
You can even make them ahead of time and keep them warm until dinner. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your table, just like it has at mine!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
When it comes to making creamy slow cooker garlic mashed potatoes, the ingredients play an essential role in achieving that dreamy, comforting texture and flavor. It’s not just about throwing some potatoes in a pot and hoping for the best. Each component adds something special, whether it’s the richness of the cream or the warmth of the garlic.
So, let’s gather everything you’ll need, and I promise you’ll be on your way to potato perfection in no time.
Here’s what you’ll need for this mouthwatering recipe:
- 2 lbs red potatoes, halved (you can leave the peel on for extra texture)
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter touch)
- 2 tablespoons butter (because what’re mashed potatoes without a little butter?)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder (or 5 garlic cloves, roasted and diced for that extra depth)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Now, let’s talk about some fun ingredient swaps and considerations. Maybe you’re trying to cut back on calories; in that case, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for heavy cream, and it still gives a nice tangy flavor.
If you’re a garlic lover like I am, go ahead and use fresh garlic cloves instead of garlic powder—trust me, your kitchen will smell divine. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not throw in some herbs like chives or rosemary? They can elevate the flavor to a whole new level.
Just remember, when it comes to seasoning, always taste as you go. You want your mashed potatoes to be seasoned just right, not a salt lick.
How to Make Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Making creamy slow cooker garlic mashed potatoes is as easy as pie, or should I say, as easy as mashed potatoes? Let’s get started, shall we?
First, grab your 2 lbs of red potatoes. You can simply halve them and toss them into your trusty slow cooker. I like to leave the peel on for that rustic vibe, but if you prefer a smoother mash, feel free to peel them.
Once your potatoes are in the pot, pour in 2 cups of water—this will help them steam and become tender. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt for flavor, because who wants bland potatoes? Now, set your slow cooker to high and let those beauties cook for about 1 to 2 hours. The goal is to have them so soft that they practically surrender at the slightest touch.
Once your potatoes are nice and mushy, you might find there’s a bit of water left in the pot. If there’s more than 1/2 cup, drain off the excess; if it’s less, leave it in there—trust me, it’ll keep your mash from getting too dry while you’re waiting for dinner to be ready.
Now comes the fun part! Add in 1/2 cup of heavy cream (or Greek yogurt if you’re feeling health-conscious), 2 tablespoons of butter, and a dash of milk—just 1 tablespoon will do. Then, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of garlic powder (or the roasted, diced garlic if you’re fancy) and mash everything together using a hand mixer or a good old-fashioned masher.
As you mash, take a moment to appreciate the heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen. It’s like a cozy hug for your senses.
Once you’ve reached that creamy consistency, season with salt and pepper to taste. Want to keep them warm? You can switch your slow cooker to medium or low and let them hang out for up to 2 hours until you’re ready to serve.
Just be careful not to eat them all before dinner—trust me, I’ve been there, and it’s a slippery slope. So, gather your family around, and get ready to plunge into some seriously comforting mashed potatoes. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes Substitutions & Variations
While creamy slow cooker mashed potatoes are delicious on their own, there’s always room for creativity with substitutions and variations.
For a lighter twist, I often swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt, which still gives a creamy texture but with fewer calories. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond milk works wonders.
I love adding roasted garlic for a deeper flavor, but you can experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fresh twist. Want a bit of zing? Try mixing in some cream cheese or sour cream.
For a cheesy delight, sprinkle in some shredded cheddar or parmesan before serving. The options are endless, so don’t hesitate to personalize your mashed potatoes!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Slow cooker mashed potatoes are a fantastic side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. I love serving them alongside savory roasted chicken or herb-crusted pork chops. The creamy texture complements the meat perfectly, creating a cozy meal.
If I’m in the mood for something heartier, I’ll pair them with beef stew or meatloaf; the potatoes soak up all those delicious flavors. For a vegetarian option, they’re great with grilled vegetables or a rich mushroom ragout.
Don’t forget about holiday dinners! They shine next to turkey and gravy, making them a must-have on my table. No matter the occasion, my slow cooker mashed potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser!
Additional Tips & Notes
When serving up my creamy slow cooker mashed potatoes, I always keep a few extra tips in mind to enhance the experience.
First, consider adding some fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. If you want a cheesier version, mixing in some grated Parmesan or cheddar can elevate the taste.
I also recommend keeping the potatoes warm in the slow cooker on low until you’re ready to serve, which helps maintain that perfect creamy texture.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can make all the difference.
Trust me, these little tweaks can turn a good dish into a great one!