Easy Make-Ahead Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
These make-ahead slow cooker garlic herb mashed potatoes are creamy, rich, and infused with sweet, nutty garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights or holiday feasts, they let you enjoy homemade mashed potatoes without the last-minute stress.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (low) or 2.5 hours (high)
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (low) or 2 hours 40 minutes (high)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 pounds (about 1.4 kg) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 6–8 garlic cloves, smashed
- 4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste)
- Optional garnishes: extra butter, chopped fresh parsley, or chives
Instructions
- Prep the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform 1-inch chunks.
- Layer in the slow cooker: Place the potato chunks in the slow cooker. Add the smashed garlic cloves, cubed butter, chopped rosemary, and thyme. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Pour in the broth and milk or cream. Do not stir.
- Cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Stir halfway through (optional): About halfway through cooking, give the potatoes a gentle stir to redistribute the butter and herbs.
- Mash the potatoes: Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash the potatoes right in the slow cooker. Start with a masher for a chunkier texture, then switch to a hand mixer for smoother results. Be careful not to overmix.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or an extra pat of butter if desired.
- Keep warm or make ahead: If serving immediately, switch the slow cooker to the ‘warm’ setting. If making ahead, let cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Notes
For the best texture, use Yukon Gold potatoes. Smash garlic cloves instead of mincing to avoid bitterness. Start with the recommended liquid amounts; potatoes release moisture as they cook. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream. The flavors deepen overnight, making these perfect for make-ahead meals.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 c
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 380
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 4
Keywords: make-ahead mashed potatoes, slow cooker mashed potatoes, garlic herb mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, holiday side dish, easy mashed potatoes