Garlic Smashed Red Potatoes

Source: Jan Taylor

3 pounds small (2 to 3 inch) red potatoes
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup chive-and-onion cream cheese
    spread (from 8 ounce container)
1/2 to 3/4 cup milk

Cut potatoes into halves or quarters as necessary to make similar-size pieces; place in 4- to 6-quart slow cooker. Stir in garlic, salt, water and oil until potato pieces are coated.

Cover; cook on HIGH setting for 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours or until potatoes are tender.

With fork or potato masher, mash potatoes and garlic. Stir in cream cheese spread until well blended. Stir in enough milk for soft serving consistency. Serve immediately, or cover and hold in slow cooker on LOW setting up to 2 hours.

Makes 14 servings (1/2 cup each).