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Cozy Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

slow cooker garlic herb mashed potatoes - featured image

Creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic and fresh herbs, made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This make-ahead friendly recipe delivers silky smooth texture and rich flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight comfort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 6 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • ½ cup heavy cream, warmed
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
  • Additional salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the potatoes (15 minutes): Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform 2-inch chunks. Rinse the cut potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch.
  2. Layer in the slow cooker (5 minutes): Place the potato chunks and smashed garlic cloves in the slow cooker. Pour in the broth, then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Give everything a gentle stir.
  3. Cook low and slow (4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high): Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The potatoes are ready when they’re fork-tender.
  4. Warm the cream and butter (5 minutes): About 10 minutes before the potatoes are done, warm the heavy cream and butter together in a small saucepan over low heat until warm but not boiling.
  5. Mash the potatoes (5-10 minutes): Turn off the slow cooker. Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes right in the slow cooker until most lumps are gone. Do not overmash.
  6. Add the good stuff (5 minutes): Pour in the warm cream and butter mixture, add the sour cream, and fold in the fresh rosemary, thyme, and chives. Stir gently until combined. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  7. Final texture check (2 minutes): If the potatoes seem too thick, stir in a splash of warm broth or milk. If they’re too thin, let them sit uncovered in the slow cooker on warm for 15-20 minutes.

Notes

For best results, use Yukon Gold potatoes for their naturally buttery texture. Always warm dairy before adding to prevent potatoes from becoming stiff. Do not use a food processor as it will make potatoes gluey. For make-ahead, under-season slightly as flavors intensify overnight. Store in refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker mashed potatoes, garlic herb mashed potatoes, make-ahead mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, holiday side dish, Yukon Gold potatoes, comfort food