If there’s ever been a side dish that manages to steal the spotlight in the coziest, most comforting way, it’s Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Imagine creamy, buttery potatoes infused with the mellow warmth of slow-cooked garlic, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker while you focus on the rest of your meal. This recipe is my go-to for everything from holiday feasts to weeknight dinners, delivering a velvety mash packed with rich flavor and that irresistible hint of fresh herbs. Each spoonful is pure comfort, made wonderfully simple without ever sacrificing taste.

Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes is how easily a handful of pantry staples can transform into something so soul-satisfying. Every ingredient earns its place, working together to create mashed potatoes that are creamy, aromatic, and totally crave-worthy. Here’s what you’ll need — and why!

Yukon Gold potatoes: Their natural buttery texture and golden color yield an extra-creamy mash that holds up beautifully in the crockpot.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the potatoes with gentle warmth and deep, savory notes as it cooks down.
Chicken broth: Adds layers of flavor and keeps the potatoes moist and tender during the slow cook.
Unsalted butter: Cubed and divided, butter melts into the warm potatoes for luscious richness and silky texture.
Whole milk or heavy cream: Warmed before mixing in, this leads to fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes every single time.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together; adjust to taste.
Chopped fresh chives or parsley: A sprinkle of herbs gives a burst of color and fresh, fragrant finish to every serving.

How to Make Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prep and Load the Crockpot

Start by peeling and cutting your Yukon Gold potatoes into evenly sized chunks, which helps everything cook at the same pace. Toss those potatoes right into your crockpot, along with the minced garlic, chicken broth, and half of the butter. The setup is as easy as it gets, yet already smells incredible as the garlic and broth mingle.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your crockpot to high for about 3 to 4 hours, or low for 6 to 7 hours, depending on your schedule. Keep the lid on and let the gentle heat do its work — the potatoes will become wonderfully tender and soak up tons of savory flavor from the garlic and broth. Don’t peek too much; that heat is key!

Step 3: Drain (If Needed) and Mash

Once the potatoes are fork-tender, check for any excess liquid in the crockpot — sometimes the potatoes soak it all up, but if there’s a bit left, drain it off. Next, use a potato masher or a hand mixer right inside the crockpot to mash everything up until it’s smooth and creamy. At this point, the mix smells out of this world!

Step 4: Stir in Dairy and Finish Seasoning

With the potatoes mashed, gently pour in your warmed milk or heavy cream and add the remaining butter. Stir until everything is incorporated, the potatoes turn fluffy, and those buttery swirls disappear. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper—don’t be shy, mashed potatoes love a good dose of seasoning.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Spoon the finished Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes into a serving dish (or straight from the crock, no judgment here!) and garnish with plenty of chopped fresh chives or parsley. That pop of green not only looks gorgeous but wakes up the flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garnishes

Fresh chopped chives or parsley are delightful on top, but feel free to get creative. A sprinkle of smoked paprika, roasted garlic cloves, or even crispy fried onions makes a great garnish that elevates the dish and adds plenty of eye appeal.

Side Dishes

Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes are cohesive best friends with roasted meats like turkey, beef, or chicken, but they also pair perfectly with plant-based mains like lentil loaf or mushroom gravy. For a full spread, serve with sautéed green beans, glazed carrots, or a simple crisp salad to balance out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Take presentation up a notch by piping portions into individual ramekins, topping with broiled cheese, or swirling with a little extra herb-infused butter. Set up a mashed potato bar at gatherings with various toppings—think bacon bits, shredded cheese, sour cream, and even sautéed mushrooms—so everyone can dress up their bowl to taste!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep fresh for about 3 days and reheat beautifully, making them perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.

Freezing

These potatoes freeze surprisingly well. Spoon cooled mashed potatoes into freezer-safe bags or containers, flattening for quick thawing. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn, and label with the date. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring in a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency. Add a pat of butter while warming for extra freshness and flavor—just like the day you made them!

FAQs

Can I make Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with vegan margarine or olive oil, and use unsweetened plant-based milk instead of dairy. The texture stays creamy and the garlic flavor shines through deliciously.

How do I prevent my mashed potatoes from getting gluey?

Mash the potatoes gently by hand or with a hand mixer on low—avoid using a food processor or overmixing, as this can break down the starches and result in a gluey texture. Yukon Golds are naturally creamy, so a light touch does the trick.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

While Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, russet potatoes are a fine substitute if that’s what you have on hand. Red potatoes are less creamy but can work for a chunkier, rustic-style mash.

Is it possible to add extra flavors to this recipe?

Yes, personalize your Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes by adding roasted garlic, a dollop of sour cream, or cream cheese for tangy richness. Stir in grated Parmesan, fresh rosemary, or thyme for a gourmet twist.

Can I keep these warm in the crockpot for a party?

Definitely! After mashing and garnishing, just set your crockpot to the warm setting. Stir occasionally and add splashes of milk as needed to keep the potatoes smooth and luscious for hours.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes yet, this is your sign to give them a go! They’re unfussy, deeply flavorful, and guaranteed to become a new favorite at your table. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, these potatoes deliver comfort and joy in every bite—dig in and enjoy!

Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 14 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy and flavorful, these Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal. Made with Yukon Gold potatoes, garlic, butter, and cream, this easy recipe is a must-try for mashed potato lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes:

3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

Garlic and Butter Mixture:

4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed

Additional Ingredients:

1 cup whole milk or heavy cream, warmed
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Add the potatoes, minced garlic, chicken broth, and half of the butter to the crockpot.
Cook: Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-7 hours until the potatoes are tender.
Mash Potatoes: Drain any excess liquid if needed. Mash the potatoes and garlic until smooth.
Add Cream and Butter: Stir in the warmed milk or cream and remaining butter until fluffy.
Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley before serving.