If you’re looking for a comfort food classic with a fresh twist, this Crockpot Mashed Potatoes with Fresh Herbs and Cream Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. Picture silky smooth mashed potatoes infused with fragrant herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley, enriched with cream cheese and butter, all made effortlessly in your crockpot. It’s the kind of dish that hugs you from the inside and steals the show at any family dinner, holiday feast, or potluck. Trust me, once you try this method, your mashed potato game will be upgraded forever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the heart and soul of this recipe, each bringing essential flavor and texture that make these mashed potatoes stand out. From the earthy Russet potatoes perfect for mashing, to the fresh herbs that brighten every bite, here’s everything you’ll want on hand before you start.
- Russet potatoes (3 pounds): Starchy and perfect for creating fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (1 cup): Adds moisture with a gentle savory depth during slow cooking.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the potatoes with a warm, aromatic kick.
- Fresh parsley (¼ cup, chopped): Offers a burst of color and refreshing herbal brightness.
- Fresh thyme (2 tablespoons, chopped): Delivers subtle earthiness that pairs beautifully with potatoes.
- Fresh rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds piney, fragrant notes that elevate the dish.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Provides mild heat and balancing spice.
- Butter (½ cup, cubed): Brings velvety richness and smooth texture.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, cubed): Adds luscious creaminess and a tangy depth.
- Whole milk (½ cup, warmed): Helps achieve that perfect fluffy, moist consistency.
How to Make Crockpot Mashed Potatoes with Fresh Herbs and Cream Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Add Potatoes and Broth
Start by peeling and cutting your Russet potatoes into 1-inch chunks – this size ensures they cook evenly and become perfectly tender. Place them right into your crockpot, then pour the chicken or vegetable broth over them. The broth not only adds flavor but also helps keep the potatoes moist and tender during the slow cooking process.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Next, sprinkle in your minced garlic, fresh parsley, thyme, rosemary, kosher salt, and black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir so the herbs and spices start mingling with the potatoes. This layering of fresh and aromatic flavors is what makes this Crockpot Mashed Potatoes with Fresh Herbs and Cream Cheese Recipe truly special.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover your crockpot with the lid and set it to LOW heat for 6 to 8 hours, or HIGH heat for 3 to 4 hours if you’re short on time. The slow cooking method allows the potatoes to absorb the herb flavors fully while becoming incredibly tender—perfect for easy mashing later.
Step 4: Mash Potatoes with Butter and Cream Cheese
Once the potatoes are fork-tender, it’s mash time! Add the cubed butter and cream cheese directly into the crockpot. Using a potato masher or a handheld electric mixer, gently mash until the potatoes reach your preferred texture. Be careful not to overmix, since that can turn the mashed potatoes gluey instead of fluffy. This step is where the cream cheese adds that irresistible smoothness and tang.
Step 5: Add Warm Milk and Final Seasoning
Slowly pour in your warmed whole milk a little at a time, stirring gently to incorporate it completely. This creates the creamy consistency everyone loves in mashed potatoes. After mixing, taste your creation and add any extra salt or pepper if needed. Now your Crockpot Mashed Potatoes with Fresh Herbs and Cream Cheese Recipe is ready to delight!
How to Serve Crockpot Mashed Potatoes with Fresh Herbs and Cream Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can take your mashed potatoes from great to unforgettable. Sprinkle some finely chopped fresh parsley or thyme on top for a pop of vibrant green and fresh aroma. A small pat of butter melting slowly or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds an extra touch of indulgence and shine.
Side Dishes
These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with everything from roast chicken and turkey to grilled steak or pan-seared salmon. The fresh herbs make the potatoes versatile enough to complement both rich meat dishes and lighter vegetable mains, creating a balanced meal full of flavor and comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the mashed potatoes in a beautiful bowl topped with a sprig of rosemary or thyme. You can also pipe the potatoes into rosettes using a large star tip for elegant dinner parties. Or simply scoop generous dollops onto individual plates and garnish with crispy fried shallots for added texture and flavor contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The magic of this Crockpot Mashed Potatoes with Fresh Herbs and Cream Cheese Recipe is that leftovers keep really well, making it a perfect dish to prepare in advance. Store any extra mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When stored properly, they maintain their creamy texture and herbs freshen up when reheated.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your mashed potatoes, let them cool completely and transfer them to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Press out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Frozen mashed potatoes will keep well for up to 2 months and make a quick, delicious side on busy nights.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the fridge overnight if possible. Warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. When reheating leftovers, adding a little extra butter brightens the flavors and helps recreate that fresh-made feeling.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
Absolutely! While Russet potatoes are ideal for mashing because of their starchy texture, Yukon Golds can also work beautifully and will give your potatoes a naturally buttery flavor and slightly creamier texture.
Do I have to use fresh herbs?
Fresh herbs are preferred for the brightest, most vibrant flavor, but if you only have dried herbs on hand, use about one-third of the amount and add them earlier in the cooking process to allow their flavors to develop.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
You can easily swap the butter and cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The herbs and garlic still provide fantastic flavor, making a plant-based version just as delicious.
How creamy will the mashed potatoes be using this crockpot method?
They turn out wonderfully creamy thanks to the slow cooking hydrates the potatoes perfectly and the addition of cream cheese, butter, and warmed milk creates a luscious texture without needing heavy whipping or adding extra fat.
Can I add extra ingredients like cheese or sour cream?
Definitely! Once the potatoes are mashed, stirring in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the dish even further. Just fold them in gently to keep that ideal fluffy texture.
Final Thoughts
If you want a foolproof way to enjoy creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes with zero stress, this Crockpot Mashed Potatoes with Fresh Herbs and Cream Cheese Recipe is a must-try. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while the fresh herbs and cream cheese add layers of deliciousness that will have everyone asking for seconds. So go ahead, give this recipe a whirl and bring comforting warmth and herbaceous joy to your next meal!
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Crockpot Mashed Potatoes with Fresh Herbs and Cream Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Crockpot Mashed Potatoes recipe offers a hands-off approach to creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes infused with fresh herbs and garlic. Slow-cooked to tender perfection in a crockpot, these mashed potatoes are enriched with butter, cream cheese, and warm milk for a smooth and luscious texture. Perfect for holiday dinners or comforting weeknight meals, this recipe yields a large batch to serve a crowd with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Broth
- 3 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Herbs and Seasonings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Dairy
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter, cubed
- 4 ounces full-fat cream cheese, cubed
- ½ cup warmed whole milk
To Taste
- Additional salt and pepper (to taste, if needed)
Instructions
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Place the peeled and cut Russet potatoes into the crockpot. Pour the chicken or vegetable broth evenly over the potatoes to provide moisture for cooking.
- Add Seasonings: Add the minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, thyme, rosemary, kosher salt, and black pepper to the crockpot. Stir gently to combine the ingredients evenly with the potatoes and broth.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on LOW heat for 6-8 hours or on HIGH heat for 3-4 hours. The potatoes are done when they are very tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Mash Potatoes: Once cooked, add the cubed butter and cream cheese directly into the crockpot. Using a potato masher or handheld electric mixer, mash the potatoes gently until your desired consistency is reached. Be careful not to over-mix to prevent the potatoes from becoming gluey.
- Add Milk: Gradually stir in the warmed whole milk to the mashed potatoes. Continue mixing gently until the milk is fully incorporated and the potatoes achieve a creamy texture. You may use less or all of the milk depending on your preferred consistency.
- Season and Serve: Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the mashed potatoes hot as a comforting side dish. Enjoy!
Notes
- For vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Do not over-mix the potatoes after cooking to avoid a gluey texture.
- You can prepare the potatoes on HIGH for a quicker cook time if you are short on time.
- Warm the milk before adding to avoid cooling down the potatoes.
- Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor but can be substituted with dried herbs if needed, adjusting quantities appropriately.
