There’s nothing quite like coming home to the comforting aroma of rich, velvety mashed potatoes ready and waiting. This simple but flavor-packed recipe turns the humble potato into a buttery, herb-infused delight—all with the help of your slow cooker. It’s fuss-free, family-friendly, and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup warm milk (or more to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or chives
Instructions
Start by placing peeled and chopped potatoes into your slow cooker, then stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, letting the liquids coat the potatoes. Dot small pieces of butter on top. Give everything a gentle stir so the potatoes get evenly seasoned.
Cover and cook on high for about 3 to 4 hours (or on low for 5 to 6 hours), until the potatoes are fork-tender. When they’re soft enough, mash them directly in the slow cooker using a potato masher or hand mixer. Gently add in the warm milk bit by bit until you reach your desired creamy consistency. Taste to check if you need more salt or pepper, and adjust as needed.
Stir one last time to ensure the flavors meld together perfectly. Keep the slow cooker on warm until you’re ready to serve. If you like extra flair, sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
These Garlic and Thyme Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes bring out the comforting essence of homemade cooking with minimal effort, making them ideal for busy weeknights, holiday feasts, or cozy gatherings. Feel free to substitute the milk with half-and-half or even sour cream for extra richness.
You can also swap thyme for rosemary, or toss in a bit of grated cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday crowd or impressing a few company guests, this recipe is a delightful solution that everyone can enjoy.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
