Thanksgiving is all about gathering with loved ones and indulging in hearty, comforting food. If you’re looking for a side dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and stress-free, look no further than Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes. This recipe is perfect for busy holiday cooking and will quickly become a staple in your family’s festive menu.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds of Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces

• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream

• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)

• Salt, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• Fresh chives or parsley for garnish

Required Kitchen Tools:

• Slow cooker/Crockpot

• Potato masher or electric hand mixer

• Knife and cutting board

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Mixing spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Thanksgiving Crockpot Side Dishes

1. Prepare the potatoes: Begin by peeling your potatoes and cutting them into evenly sized chunks to ensure even cooking. Place the potatoes in the Crockpot.

2. Add garlic: Mince the garlic cloves and sprinkle them evenly over the potatoes. Garlic adds a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes.

3. Add butter and seasoning: Place the butter pieces over the potatoes and season generously with salt and black pepper. The butter will melt during cooking, infusing the potatoes with flavor.

4. Cook in the Crockpot: Cover the Crockpot and cook on high for 3–4 hours or on low for 6–7 hours. Potatoes are ready when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.

5. Mash the potatoes: Once cooked, use a potato masher or electric hand mixer to mash the potatoes directly in the Crockpot. For a creamier texture, gradually add milk or heavy cream and continue mashing until smooth.

6. Optional sour cream addition: Stir in the sour cream for an extra layer of creaminess and tang. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley over the top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve directly from the Crockpot to keep the potatoes warm throughout your Thanksgiving feast.

Helpful Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

• Even-sized potatoes: Cutting the potatoes into uniform pieces ensures they cook evenly.

• Don’t overcook: While slow cooking is forgiving, overcooked potatoes can become watery. Check for tenderness with a fork.

• Creamy texture: For extra silky potatoes, warm the milk or cream before adding it.

• Make ahead: You can prepare the potatoes a day in advance and reheat them in the Crockpot on low, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

• Add cheese: For a richer flavor, fold in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese before serving.

Approximate Nutritional Value (per serving, serves 8):

• Calories: 250

• Fat: 13g

• Saturated Fat: 8g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Protein: 3g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sodium: 350mg

Conclusion:
If you’re searching for easy, flavorful, and stress-free Thanksgiving Crockpot Side Dishes, this Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe is a must-try. The creamy texture, rich garlic flavor, and effortless preparation make it the perfect companion for your turkey and gravy. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a holiday newbie, these mashed potatoes will impress your guests and bring comfort to your Thanksgiving table. Give this recipe a try and experience the joy of fuss-free, delicious mashed potatoes that everyone will love.

FAQs

1. Can I make Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the potatoes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the Crockpot on low, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.

2. Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are best for creamy mashed potatoes, but red potatoes or even sweet potatoes can work. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly.

3. How do I make the mashed potatoes extra creamy?
For extra creaminess, warm your milk or cream before adding it, and consider mixing in sour cream or cream cheese. Using a hand mixer instead of a masher can also give a smoother texture.

4. Can I add cheese or herbs to this recipe?
Yes! Shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or fresh herbs like chives and parsley make excellent additions. Fold them in after mashing for extra flavor.

5. How long can I keep leftover mashed potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or Crockpot, adding a bit of milk to keep them creamy.

6. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor if desired.