Crockpot Mashed Potatoes : Creamy & Effortless Garlic Herb Holiday Favorite

Looking for a stress-free side dish that delivers rich, creamy flavor with hardly any effort? These Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are your new go-to. Perfect for holiday cooking, Sunday dinners, or any night you want a warm, comforting side without hovering over the stove, this slow cooker recipe ensures smooth, buttery mashed potatoes that are impossible to resist.

Infused with garlic and herbs, this version isn’t just easy—it’s elevated. Whether you’re planning your Thanksgiving feast, prepping for a potluck, or just love hearty potato recipes, this dish fits the bill.

And if you’re creating a full holiday spread, pair this with Scalloped Potatoes or the irresistible Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Zucchini for a comforting, crowd-pleasing menu.

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Why You’ll Love These Garlic Herb Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

There are a million mashed potato recipes out there, but this one stands out for several reasons:

• Set-it-and-forget-it convenience using your slow cooker
• Garlic herb flavor that elevates without overpowering
• Perfect texture—smooth, creamy, and rich
• Ideal for easy mashed potatoes on busy holidays
• Keeps warm in the crockpot for hours—no last-minute reheating needed

If you enjoy low-effort dishes that taste like they took all day, you’ll also love our Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal for breakfast and our Creamy Mushroom Soup as a comforting starter.

Who Should Make This Slow Cooker Mashed Potato Recipe?

This recipe is a dream come true if you’re:

• A holiday host who needs oven space for other dishes
• Looking for easy crockpot recipes for weeknights or entertaining
• A beginner cook needing a foolproof side dish
• Someone who loves mashed potatoes but hates the mess of boiling and draining
• Meal prepping and want a side that reheats beautifully

It also makes a great side dish for cozy mains like Baked Chicken Legs or Ground Beef Wellington.

Ingredients for Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

You only need a few pantry staples and fresh herbs to make magic in your slow cooker:

• 5 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 1 cup milk (or half-and-half, warmed)
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Want to take the flavor up another notch? Add a spoonful of Sweet Chili Sauce for a sweet-savory twist.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Keep it simple—no fancy gadgets required:

• 6-quart slow cooker
• Vegetable peeler
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Potato masher or hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Silicone spatula

These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with Cheddar Bay Biscuits or Pumpkin Twists for a full comfort-food experience.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Mashed Potatoes in the Crockpot

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Peel and chop the potatoes into even chunks to ensure they cook uniformly.

Step 2: Load the Crockpot
Place potatoes, garlic, chicken broth, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker. Stir gently to distribute the garlic.

Step 3: Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or LOW for 6–7 hours, until potatoes are very tender.

Step 4: Mash and Mix
Add butter, warmed milk, and sour cream directly into the crockpot. Mash the potatoes using a masher or hand mixer until smooth.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Add more salt, pepper, or milk to reach your desired flavor and consistency.

Step 6: Keep Warm and Garnish
Switch the slow cooker to “WARM” until ready to serve. Sprinkle with fresh herbs just before serving.

Hosting a potluck or brunch? Serve alongside Croissant Breakfast Boats or Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles for a balanced table.

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Pro Tips for the Best Mashed Potatoes Every Time

• Don’t overmix—stop mashing once the potatoes are smooth to avoid a gluey texture
• Use warm milk and butter to keep the potatoes from seizing
• Add garlic early so it cooks and mellows in the slow cooker
• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creaminess or Russets for fluffier texture
• Keep the lid on—resist lifting it during cooking to maintain heat

Looking to turn these into a complete meal? Pair them with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers for a savory combo.

How to Serve & Presentation Ideas for Garlic Mashed Potatoes

These creamy mashed potatoes are a blank canvas for your presentation:

• Drizzle with melted butter and a sprinkle of herbs
• Top with caramelized onions or roasted garlic
• Serve in a rustic bowl with a ladle of gravy
• Create a DIY mashed potato bar with toppings like cheese, chives, and bacon bits

For a fancier presentation, serve them with Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls for a sweet-savory contrast at brunch.

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop or in a microwave with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Make-Ahead
You can cook the potatoes a day ahead and reheat in the crockpot with added milk and butter to refresh.

Want more make-ahead wonders? Try Crack Breakfast Casserole for a savory start to your morning.

Flavor Variations & Ingredient Swaps

• Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in sharp cheddar or parmesan
• Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Top with bacon bits, scallions, and shredded cheese
• Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan butter and unsweetened almond milk
• Herb Swap: Use rosemary or thyme in place of parsley for a different flavor

You can also pair these with Vegetable Casserole or Vegetarian Pasta Primavera for a hearty, meat-free meal.

Avoid These Common Mistakes When Making Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

• Using too much liquid—start with less and add more later if needed
• Skipping the warm milk and butter—cold ingredients can ruin texture
• Overmixing—leads to gluey, gummy potatoes
• Lifting the lid too often—slows down the cooking time
• Using old potatoes—they don’t mash as smoothly and can be grainy

For another potato favorite, try Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs—they’re fun, fluffy, and freezer-friendly!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Can I leave the skins on?
Yes, especially with Yukon Golds. They add texture and flavor.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just ensure your crockpot is large enough to avoid overflow.

Do I need to stir during cooking?
No need. Just give it a good mash and stir once everything is tender.

What’s the best potato to use?
Yukon Golds are creamy and rich. Russets are fluffier and more classic.

How do I prevent dried-out leftovers?
Store with a splash of broth or milk and reheat gently with added fat for moisture.

Final Thoughts + Share & Subscribe Call-To-Action

These Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are proof that simplicity and flavor can go hand in hand. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at the holidays or just want an easy side dish on a busy weeknight, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.

If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family—and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more Crockpot Recipes, slow cooker comfort foods, and easy holiday favorites.

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