If you have been searching for a comforting, hands-off side dish that will wow your family and guests, look no further than this delightful Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe. Perfectly creamy and loaded with deep, roasted garlic flavor, this recipe lets your slow cooker do all the work while infusing the potatoes with rich Italian seasoning and the velvety mix of butter, cream cheese, and chicken broth. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, these mashed potatoes will become your go-to comfort food that melts in your mouth with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of several ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. On the right side, there is a large metal bowl filled with peeled, chopped yellow potatoes covered in water. To the left, there is a collection of small white bowls and a jug, each containing different ingredients: one bowl has white cubed cheese, another has cubed butter, a small plate holds a halved roasted garlic bulb and some peeled roasted garlic cloves, a small round plate contains dried herbs, a jug with a brown liquid, and a glass jug with white cream. The bowls and plates are neatly spaced and all white. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are downright simple but absolutely essential for achieving that luscious texture and unforgettable flavor. Each item plays a crucial role in building the layered creaminess and that gorgeous golden color that lights up your plate.

Garlic: One whole head roasted to bring out mellow sweetness and depth without harshness.
Olive oil: Just enough to coat garlic and encourage caramelization during roasting.
Yukon Gold potatoes: Tender, buttery, and perfect for smooth, fluffy mashed potatoes.
Chicken broth: Adds subtle savory richness and keeps potatoes moist as they cook.
Heavy cream: Provides luxurious creaminess and can be adjusted for your perfect consistency.
Butter: Enhances flavor and adds that classic buttery silkiness every mashed potato needs.
Italian seasoning: Sprinkles of herbaceous, aromatic notes that take these potatoes up a notch.
Cream cheese: Delivers tangy richness and incredible smooth texture.
Chives: Freshness and a mild onion crunch as a bright garnish.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential seasonings to make every flavor pop.

How to Make Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Potatoes

Start by peeling and dicing your Yukon Gold potatoes into roughly one-inch pieces. Place them into a large bowl of cold water to prevent browning and keep them fresh until you’re ready to transfer them to the crock pot. This little trick ensures that your potatoes will look as good as they taste.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Transfer the potatoes from the water into your 7-quart crock pot, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, seasoning with a generous pinch of kosher salt. Scatter the diced butter evenly over the top to start infusing the dish with luxurious richness right as it cooks.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your crock pot and set it on high for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the potatoes to become incredibly tender and soak in all those savory flavors. Meanwhile, you’ll want to roast your garlic to add a whole new dimension of sweetness and aroma to your mashed potatoes.

Step 4: Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Slice your garlic head in half horizontally, drizzle the cut sides with olive oil, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil to trap moisture and enhance that roasting process. Roast for one hour until it’s beautifully soft and caramelized, then let cool before squeezing the cloves out and mashing them with a fork.

Step 5: Mash and Season

Once the potatoes are fork-tender and ready, add the mashed roasted garlic, Italian seasoning, diced cream cheese, and a few good pinches of salt and fresh cracked pepper. Use an electric mixer to blend everything into a velvety smooth mash, adding extra heavy cream if the consistency needs loosening. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking for that perfect balance between creamy, salty, and savory.

How to Serve Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe

The image shows a white oval slow cooker filled with smooth, creamy mashed potatoes that have a pale yellow color with small specks of black pepper. The mashed potatoes are spread evenly inside, with visible soft swirls and peaks made by a spoon which has a silver head and a wooden handle resting inside the cooker. The cooker is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Nothing beats a sprinkle of fresh chives over these mashed potatoes. The subtle onion-like crispness from the chives brightens the rich, creamy base and adds a pop of vibrant green that looks as enticing as it tastes.

Side Dishes

These mashed potatoes are a slam dunk alongside a rich braised chuck roast or roasted chicken. Their smooth texture and flavor can complement everything from classic meatloaf to sautéed green beans, making them a versatile staple on your dinner table.

Creative Ways to Present

For something a little different, try piping your mashed potatoes onto a serving dish with a large star tip, then broil briefly to get crispy golden tips. Alternatively, swirl them into little nests and top with gravy or melted cheese for an indulgent twist that’s sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness and avoid condensation that could make them watery.

Freezing

You can freeze mashed potatoes, but their texture may slightly change. For best results, portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers and remove as much air as possible. Label with the date and freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring frequently. Add a splash of heavy cream or butter if the potatoes feel dry to restore that rich, creamy consistency that made you love this dish in the first place.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe?

Absolutely! While Yukon Gold potatoes offer a naturally buttery texture and flavor, Russets or red potatoes can also be used. Just keep in mind that Russets tend to be drier and fluffier, which might affect the final creaminess a bit.

Is it necessary to roast the garlic?

Roasting garlic mellows its sharpness and brings out a sweet, rich flavor that really elevates the entire dish. You can use raw garlic, but roasting makes a noticeable difference in smoothness and depth.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute butter and cream with dairy-free alternatives like margarine or vegan butter and coconut or almond milk creamers. The texture might vary slightly, but the slow cooker method still works beautifully.

How do I know when the potatoes are done cooking in the crock pot?

The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender and very soft. To test, simply pierce a few pieces with a fork—if it slides in easily without resistance, they’re ready for mashing.

Can I add herbs other than Italian seasoning?

Definitely! Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can be wonderful additions that pair nicely with the garlic and butter, so feel free to tailor this recipe to your flavor preferences.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly heartwarming about a bowl of mashed potatoes made with love and care, and this Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe is an effortless way to achieve just that. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a beginner, the slow cooker does the magic while you focus on making memories around the table. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and fall in love with the creamy, garlicky goodness as much as I have!