Dreamy Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Creamy slow cooker cheesy garlic herb mashed potatoes bring comfort straight to your dinner table with minimal effort.

Magic happens when you combine simple ingredients and let a magical appliance do the work.

Herbs and cheese create a dreamy backdrop for these pillowy potatoes that melt in your mouth.

Garlic adds a punchy warmth that transforms ordinary side dishes into something spectacular.

Soft, rich textures merge with bold flavors, making this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Minimal prep means maximum enjoyment – perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings.

You’ll want to bookmark this foolproof method for the most irresistible mashed potatoes ever.

Why Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes Are A Must

• Simplify Cooking: Transform complex mashed potato preparation into a hands-off slow cooker method that requires minimal active kitchen time.
• Flavor Explosion: Infuse potatoes with layers of garlic, fresh herbs, and multiple cheese varieties creating a rich, aromatic side dish that elevates any meal.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Deliver a creamy, cheesy potato experience that appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals.
• Hands-Free Convenience: Set ingredients in the slow cooker and walk away, allowing you to focus on other meal preparations or enjoy free time while dinner practically cooks itself.

Ingredients For Cheesy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

• Russet Potatoes, Yukon Gold Potatoes: Starchy potatoes that create a creamy and smooth texture when mashed.

• Heavy Cream, Whole Milk: Provide rich, luxurious creaminess to the mashed potatoes.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and smooth, velvety texture to the dish.
• Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Deliver sharp, tangy, and complex cheese flavor to enhance the potatoes.

• Garlic Cloves: Offer bold, aromatic flavor that complements the creamy potatoes.
• Fresh Chives, Fresh Thyme, Fresh Rosemary: Bring bright, herbal notes and fresh, earthy complexity to the dish.
• Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder: Provide balanced seasoning and depth of flavor to the mashed potatoes.

Easy Steps For Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare Potato Cubes

Clean russet and yukon gold potatoes under running water. Peel the skin completely. Slice potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes to guarantee consistent cooking throughout.

Step 2: Chop Aromatic Herbs

Finely mince garlic cloves and chop fresh chives, thyme, and rosemary. These herbs will release incredible flavors and create a delightful aroma in the dish.

Step 3: Prepare Slow Cooker

Lightly coat the inside of the slow cooker with butter using a pastry brush. This prevents potatoes from sticking and makes serving easier.

Step 4: Layer Potato Seasonings

• Minced garlic
• Chopped herbs
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder

Step 5: Add Liquid Ingredients

Gently pour heavy cream and whole milk over the potato layers. Ensure potatoes are almost covered but not completely submerged.

Step 6: Add Butter Topping

Distribute small cubes of unsalted butter evenly across the potato surface.

Step 7: Slow Cook Potatoes

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours. Potatoes are ready when they can be easily pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent bottom layer from burning.

Step 8: Mash Potatoes

Once potatoes are soft, mash directly in the slow cooker. Use a potato masher or electric mixer to reach your preferred texture.

Step 9: Incorporate Cheese

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Grated parmesan cheese

Stir until cheese is completely melted and blended with potatoes.

Step 10: Final Touches

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle additional chopped chives on top for a fresh, vibrant garnish.

Tips For Creamy Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

• Prevent Potato Browning: Soak cubed potatoes in cold water before cooking to stop oxidation and maintain their pristine white color.
• Achieve Creamy Texture: Use a combination of russet and yukon gold potatoes for the perfect balance between starchy and waxy consistency.
• Herb Intensity Boost: Crush dried herbs between your fingers before adding to release more concentrated flavors throughout the dish.
• Cheese Melting Trick: Remove slow cooker from heat and let cheese melt naturally to prevent potential graininess or separation.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute heavy cream and whole milk with unsweetened coconut milk or vegetable broth for a lactose-free version.

Tasty Twists On Classic Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

• Rustic Bacon Herb Mashed Potatoes: Crisp and crumble bacon strips into the potato layers, adding smoky flavor and extra texture. Reduce butter quantity and replace some milk with reserved bacon fat for deeper taste.
• Mediterranean Olive Mashed Potatoes: Mix in finely chopped kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese. Substitute rosemary with oregano and add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for Mediterranean flair.
• Roasted Garlic Truffle Mashed Potatoes: Replace raw garlic with entire head of roasted garlic for mellower profile. Incorporate small amount of truffle oil and use gruyere cheese instead of cheddar for luxurious, earthy undertones.

What To Serve With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

• Robust Red Wine Match: Select a medium-bodied Pinot Noir with smooth tannins that balances the creamy potato richness and cuts through the cheese's intensity.
• Protein Partner Pick: Serve alongside roasted herb-crusted chicken or slow-braised beef short ribs to create a hearty meal where the mashed potatoes become a luxurious side.
• Crisp Vegetable Contrast: Add roasted asparagus or green beans with lemon zest to provide a bright, acidic counterpoint that refreshes the palate between creamy potato bites.
• Unexpected Herbal Accent: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chervil on top to introduce a clean, green note that elevates the dish's complexity and adds visual appeal.

Best Way To Store Mashed Potatoes

• Transfer leftover mashed potatoes to an airtight container, ensuring a tight seal to prevent moisture loss and preserve flavor, then store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Pack cooled mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to 2 months for later enjoyment.
• Thaw refrigerated or frozen potatoes in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creamy texture, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly and prevent drying out.
• Divide mashed potatoes into individual serving sizes before storing, making it easier to reheat only the amount needed and maintain optimal taste and consistency.

FAQs For Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

• Why use a slow cooker for mashed potatoes?

Slow cookers provide gentle, even heat that prevents scorching and allows potatoes to become incredibly creamy and tender without constant monitoring.

• Can I use different types of potatoes?

Russet and Yukon gold potatoes work best due to their starchy texture, which creates a smoother and fluffier mashed potato consistency.

• How do herbs enhance the potato flavor?

Fresh herbs like chives, thyme, and rosemary release aromatic oils during cooking, adding depth and complexity to the traditional mashed potato recipe.

• Is it necessary to use both heavy cream and whole milk?

The combination provides rich creaminess and helps achieve a luxurious texture, with heavy cream adding extra richness and whole milk ensuring a smooth consistency.

Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes Recipe

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4.9 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes – 5 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Slow cooker cheesy garlic herb mashed potatoes bring comfort directly to dinner tables with creamy, rich goodness. Potato lovers will savor each indulgent bite of this classic side dish that combines simple ingredients into a memorable culinary experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Potatoes:

• 3 lbs russet potatoes
• 1 lb yukon gold potatoes

Dairy:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 4 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp fresh chives
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly wash and peel russet and yukon gold potatoes, then cut into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
2. Mince garlic cloves and finely chop fresh chives, thyme, and rosemary to release their aromatic oils and enhance flavor profile.
3. Grease the interior of the slow cooker with a light butter coating to prevent sticking and promote easy serving.
4. Layer potato cubes evenly in the slow cooker, sprinkling minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder between layers for consistent seasoning.
5. Pour heavy cream and whole milk over the potatoes, ensuring they are nearly covered but not completely submerged.
6. Dot the top with cubed unsalted butter, distributing evenly across the potato surface.
7. Cover and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours, or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, stirring occasionally to prevent bottom layer from burning.
8. Once potatoes are soft, mash directly in the slow cooker using a potato masher or electric mixer until reaching desired consistency.
9. Fold in shredded cheddar and grated parmesan cheeses, stirring until completely melted and integrated.
10. Adjust seasoning if needed, then transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional chopped chives for a fresh presentation.

Notes

• Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for creamier, less starchy texture that holds up better during slow cooking.
• Keep potato cubes uniform in size to guarantee even cooking and consistent tenderness throughout the dish.
• Avoid overmixing when mashing to prevent gluey or gummy potato texture, which can happen if starches are overworked.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like gruyère, gouda, or fontina for unique flavor variations that complement the herbs.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-5 hours
• Category: Dinner, Side Dish, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg