Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: crockpot garlic mashed potatoes! These creamy, dreamy potatoes are not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare. Just toss everything into your crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day. You’ll come home to a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy hug. Trust me, these mashed potatoes will elevate any meal, whether you’re having a fancy dinner or a casual family gathering. Plus, with the rich garlic flavor infused throughout, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Get ready to impress your friends or simply treat yourself to a delightful dish that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly night!
Ingredients
To whip up these scrumptious crockpot garlic mashed potatoes, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
- 3 pounds of potatoes, peeled and cubed (I prefer Yukon Gold for their buttery flavor!)
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced (Feel free to add more if you love that garlicky punch!)
- 1 cup of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist)
- 1/2 cup of milk (whole milk makes them extra creamy, but any milk works!)
- 1/4 cup of butter (because everything’s better with butter, right?)
- Salt to taste (don’t be shy—seasoning is key!)
- Pepper to taste (freshly cracked pepper gives a nice kick)
Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating a side dish that everyone will be raving about!
How to Prepare Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ready to dive into the deliciousness of crockpot garlic mashed potatoes? Let’s make it super simple with these straightforward steps!
- Start by placing the peeled and cubed potatoes into your crockpot. I like to use Yukon Gold for their creamy texture, but feel free to choose your favorite variety!
- Add in the minced garlic. Oh, the smell is going to be heavenly! Then pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, and sprinkle in salt and pepper to your taste.
- Now, cover your crockpot and set it to low heat. Let it work its magic for about 6 to 8 hours. You want those potatoes to be nice and tender. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook them on high for about 4 hours, but low is where the flavor really develops!
- Once your potatoes are fork-tender, it’s time to mash! I usually do this right in the crockpot to save on dishes. Grab a potato masher and go to town until they’re as smooth as you like them.
- Next, add in the 1/2 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of butter. Mix everything together until it’s creamy and luscious. This is where the magic happens, folks!
- Finally, taste your mashed potatoes and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve them warm, and watch everyone fall in love with this cozy side dish!
And there you have it! Delicious, creamy crockpot garlic mashed potatoes that are sure to steal the show at your next meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy hands-off preparation: Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you relax or tackle other tasks.
- Creamy texture: The slow cooking process creates irresistibly smooth and buttery mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth.
- Versatile side dish: These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with almost any main dish, from roast chicken to grilled veggies.
- Great for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—just reheat and serve!
- Flavorful garlic infusion: The garlic flavor seeps into every bite, giving you that comforting, savory goodness you crave.
Tips for Success
If you want your crockpot garlic mashed potatoes to turn out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips that I’ve picked up along the way:
- Choose the right potatoes: I highly recommend Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the creamiest results. Yukon Golds have a buttery flavor that really shines through, while Russets yield that fluffy texture we all love!
- Adjust garlic levels to taste: If you’re a garlic lover like me, don’t be afraid to add a few extra cloves! But if you prefer a milder flavor, start with 2-3 cloves and work your way up. You can always add more later, but you can’t take it out!
- Get the consistency just right: When mashing, if you find the potatoes are a bit too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more milk until you reach your desired creaminess. Remember, you want them to be smooth and luscious, not paste-like!
- Season gradually: Taste as you go! Start with a pinch of salt and pepper, then adjust according to your preference. Every batch might need a slightly different amount!
- Don’t rush the cooking time: For the best flavor, stick to the low and slow method. Cooking them for the full 6-8 hours allows all those flavors to meld beautifully. Patience is key!
Follow these tips, and you’ll be a pro at making the most delightful crockpot garlic mashed potatoes that everyone will rave about!
Nutritional Information
When you’re indulging in these creamy crockpot garlic mashed potatoes, it’s nice to have an idea of what you’re enjoying. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values for a serving size of 1 cup:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 5g
These values are estimates, so keep in mind that they can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy your delicious side dish, knowing you’re treating yourself to something both tasty and satisfying!
FAQ Section
I know you might have a few questions about making the perfect crockpot garlic mashed potatoes, so let’s dive into some of the most common ones I get!
Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?
You can, but I recommend using fresh potatoes for the best flavor and texture. Frozen potatoes may end up a bit mushy after cooking. If you have to use frozen, make sure to adjust the cooking time as they may not take as long to become tender.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No problem! You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or even water, though broth adds so much flavor. Just make sure to season well if you go the water route!
Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if they seem a bit thick.
How can I make these potatoes even creamier?
If you want to amp up the creaminess, try adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream in addition to the milk and butter. It gives that extra luxurious texture that’s hard to resist!
Can I add other ingredients to the mashed potatoes?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in cheese, herbs like chives or parsley, or even cooked bacon for a fun twist. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing your crockpot garlic mashed potatoes!
Hopefully, these answers help you on your journey to creating the most delicious mashed potatoes ever! Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a big batch of those delicious crockpot garlic mashed potatoes and are wondering how to store them? No worries, I’ve got you covered!
First things first, let your mashed potatoes cool down a bit before storing. Once they’re at room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. Just make sure to seal them tightly to prevent any strange fridge odors from sneaking in!
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key to maintaining that creamy texture. I recommend warming them up on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or a pat of butter to help bring back that luscious creaminess, stirring gently until they’re heated through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop them in the microwave—just remember to cover the bowl to avoid splatters! Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until they’re warm and inviting again.
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor your crockpot garlic mashed potatoes for days to come. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up with your crockpot garlic mashed potatoes, I’ve got some fun variations that will make this classic side dish even more exciting!
- Cheesy Delight: Add in some shredded cheddar cheese or cream cheese while mashing for an ultra-creamy, cheesy flavor. You can’t go wrong with a little extra cheesiness, right?
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or rosemary for a fresh twist. They’ll add a pop of flavor and a beautiful touch of color!
- Roasted Garlic: For a deeper garlic flavor, try using roasted garlic instead of fresh. Just squeeze the soft, caramelized cloves into the potatoes for a sweet and rich taste.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate other veggies like cauliflower or carrots for a colorful and nutritious twist. Just chop them into small pieces and throw them in with the potatoes to cook!
- Bacon Lover’s: Mix in crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch. Trust me, the combination of creamy potatoes and crispy bacon is pure magic!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to give your mashed potatoes a spicy flair.
These variations are a great way to personalize your crockpot garlic mashed potatoes and make them your own. Enjoy experimenting, and let your taste buds guide you to delicious new creations!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your creamy crockpot garlic mashed potatoes ready, let’s talk about what to serve them with! Trust me, these potatoes are the perfect companion to elevate any meal, and I’ve got some fantastic pairings that will make your dinner spread shine.
- Roasted Chicken: A classic! The savory flavors of roasted chicken pair beautifully with the garlic-infused potatoes, creating a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug.
- Grilled Steak: For a hearty option, serve these mashed potatoes alongside a juicy grilled steak. The creamy texture balances out the meat’s richness perfectly!
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: If you’re looking for a lighter, vegetarian option, a colorful vegetable stir-fry is a great match. The vibrant veggies add freshness and crunch to your meal.
- Meatloaf: You can’t go wrong with the classic combo of meatloaf and mashed potatoes. The comforting flavors of both dishes make for a nostalgic and satisfying dinner.
- Baked Salmon: The buttery richness of baked salmon complements the creamy potatoes beautifully. Add a squeeze of lemon on top, and you’ve got a delightful dish!
- Green Salad: For a lighter side, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the potatoes. Toss in some nuts or cheese for added texture!
These pairings will not only enhance your meal but also make your crockpot garlic mashed potatoes the star of the show. Enjoy mixing and matching to create your perfect dinner plate!
Print
Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes: 5 Reasons to Love Them
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy and flavorful garlic mashed potatoes made in a crockpot.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds of potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of butter
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the cubed potatoes and minced garlic in the crockpot.
- Add chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until potatoes are tender.
- Once cooked, mash the potatoes in the crockpot.
- Add milk and butter, then mix until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve warm.
Notes
- You can add more garlic for a stronger flavor.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: crockpot garlic mashed potatoes
