Crockpot Mashed Potatoes have become my absolute go-to for a reason – they’re incredibly simple and deliver the creamiest, most comforting results with hardly any effort! I remember the first time I tried making mashed potatoes in my slow cooker, I was a little skeptical, but the aroma of garlic and butter wafting from the kitchen was pure magic. These slow cooker mashed potatoes are so fluffy and flavorful, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with boiling and draining. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Forget the stovetop hassle! These are the best crockpot mashed potatoes because they offer so many amazing benefits:

Effortless preparation: Seriously, just chop, dump, and cook.
Incredible creaminess: You get that luscious, smooth texture every time.
Hands-off cooking: Free up your oven and stovetop for other dishes.
Minimal cleanup: Only one pot to wash, making life so much easier.

Perfect for any occasion: They’re a crowd-pleaser for holidays and weeknights alike.
No boiling required: These crockpot mashed potatoes no boiling means no draining, saving you time and effort.
Foolproof results: This is truly an easy crockpot mashed potatoes recipe that even beginners can master.

Ingredients for Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Gather these simple ingredients for the most delicious crockpot mashed potatoes you’ll ever taste. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity and the creamy texture that comes from using the slow cooker.

5 pounds Russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks – Yukon Golds offer a naturally buttery flavor, perfect for a crowd.
5 cloves garlic, smashed – this adds a wonderful depth of flavor without being overpowering.
1 ½ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth – the liquid base that helps cook the potatoes tenderly.

½ cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces – for that rich, buttery taste we all love.
1 cup sour cream – this is key for achieving that signature crockpot mashed potatoes with sour cream creaminess.
½–¾ cup whole milk or heavy cream (adjust to preference) – use more for a looser consistency, less for a thicker mash.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish – adds a pop of color and freshness.

How to Make Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Learning how to make crockpot mashed potatoes is incredibly simple, and the results are so worth it! You’ll love the hands-off approach that leads to a wonderfully creamy side dish.

Step 1: Get your slow cooker ready by adding the 5 pounds of Russet or Yukon gold potatoes, which should be peeled and cut into roughly equal chunks. Toss in the 5 smashed garlic cloves. Pour the 1 ½ cups of broth over the potatoes and garlic. Covering the slow cooker is key to trapping that moisture, which helps the potatoes cook evenly.

Step 2: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. You have two options: cook on HIGH for about 3 to 4 hours, or on LOW for 6 to 7 hours. I usually opt for LOW because it gives me more flexibility. You’ll know they’re ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and easily pierced – imagine that soft, yielding texture!
Step 3: Once the potatoes are perfectly tender, it’s time to mash and mix. Add the ½ cup of butter directly into the crockpot. Using a potato masher or even an immersion blender right in the pot, mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency. Then, stir in the 1 cup of sour cream. Gradually add the ½–¾ cup of milk or cream, mixing until you achieve that dreamy, crockpot creamy mashed potatoes texture.

Step 4: Season your masterpiece! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Give it a final stir to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. If you’re aiming for that extra touch, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or chives. These crockpot mashed potatoes are now ready to be served warm as the perfect side dish.

Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Want to elevate your mashed potato game? These simple tricks will ensure your crockpot mashed potatoes are a guaranteed hit every time.

Use the right potatoes: Russets or Yukon Golds are best for fluffy, creamy results.
Don’t overfill the slow cooker: Leave room for steam to circulate for even cooking.
Mash while hot: The hotter the potatoes, the smoother they’ll mash.
Warm your dairy: Warming the milk and sour cream before adding helps them incorporate better.

What’s the secret to perfect crockpot mashed potatoes?

The real magic lies in using the slow cooker’s moisture to cook the potatoes perfectly tender. This method helps achieve those wonderfully crockpot mashed potatoes smooth and creamy results without any boiling. For more information on slow cooking, you can check out Food Network’s guide.

Can I make crockpot mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the potatoes, garlic, and broth in the slow cooker up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator and add the butter, sour cream, and milk when you’re ready to cook. For more details on food safety and storage, consult the FoodSafety.gov charts.

How do I avoid common mistakes with crockpot mashed potatoes?

A common pitfall is using waxy potatoes, which can result in gummy mash. Stick to starchy varieties. Also, resist the urge to over-mash, which can break down the starches too much. This crockpot mashed potato recipe easy approach minimizes these risks. Learn more about potato types from the United States Potato Board.

Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

These versatile crockpot mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food and pair beautifully with so many dishes. They truly shine as a hearty crockpot mashed potatoes side dish, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion. For an unforgettable holiday meal, make sure these are on the table – they’re a crowd-pleasing fixture for any festive spread. Imagine them alongside roasted turkey or ham, soaking up all those delicious pan juices. They also make a fantastic base for shepherd’s pie or can be served as a comforting meal on their own.

Nutrition Facts for Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

When you’re enjoying these incredibly easy crockpot mashed potatoes, here’s a general idea of what you’re getting per serving. These numbers are based on the recipe serving 8-10 people, making them a satisfying side dish.

Calories: Approximately 350-400
Fat: Around 20-25g
Saturated Fat: Roughly 12-15g
Protein: About 5-7g
Carbohydrates: Typically 35-40g
Fiber: Around 3-5g
Sugar: Approximately 3-5g
Sodium: Varies, but generally 300-500mg

Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For more detailed nutritional information, you can refer to the MyFitnessPal database.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

One of the best things about this simple crockpot mashed potatoes recipe is how easy it is to store and reheat. Once your delicious crockpot mashed potatoes have cooled slightly, transfer them into airtight containers. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them even longer, they freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. For reheating, you can gently warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore their creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

What are crockpot mashed potatoes?

Crockpot mashed potatoes are simply mashed potatoes that are cooked in a slow cooker instead of on the stovetop. This method allows the potatoes to cook evenly in their own steam and added liquid, resulting in a tender base that’s perfect for mashing. They’re a fantastic way to free up your oven and stovetop space, making meal prep much easier, especially for busy days or holidays. You can learn more about the benefits of slow cooking on our About Me page.

Can I make crockpot mashed potatoes from scratch without peeling?

While this recipe calls for peeling, you absolutely can make crockpot mashed potatoes from scratch without peeling, especially if you’re using Yukon Gold potatoes. Just make sure to scrub them really well to remove any dirt. The skins will soften considerably during the slow cooking process, and if you’re going for a more rustic texture, leaving them on is a great option. Just be aware that the skin might still be slightly noticeable in the final mash.

What’s the best way to ensure my crockpot mashed potatoes are super creamy?

To achieve that wonderfully crockpot creamy mashed potatoes texture, make sure you use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. Also, don’t skimp on the butter and dairy! Warming your milk or cream and sour cream before adding them helps them incorporate more smoothly into the hot potatoes. Mash the potatoes while they are still very hot for the best, smoothest results. Avoid over-mashing, though, as this can make them gluey. For more tips on cooking, visit our homepage.

Are crockpot mashed potatoes a good option for a crowd?

Absolutely! Crockpot mashed potatoes are ideal for a crowd because the slow cooker can hold a large volume, and they stay warm for serving. This recipe is designed to serve 8-10 people, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday feasts. Their creamy texture and rich flavor are always a hit with guests. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

Variations of Crockpot Mashed Potatoes You Can Try

Once you master the basic recipe, you can easily customize these crockpot mashed potatoes to suit your taste or dietary needs! They’re so versatile, making them a perfect choice for a crowd or a simple weeknight side.

Garlic Lover’s Dream: For an extra punch of flavor, roast a whole head of garlic (cut off the top, drizzle with oil, wrap in foil, and roast at 400°F for 30-40 mins) then mash the softened cloves into the potatoes along with the butter. This creates an incredible depth of flavor for your crockpot garlic mashed potatoes.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan cheese after mashing for a decadent, cheesy variation.

Herbed Goodness: Mix in fresh chives, parsley, dill, or rosemary for a burst of fresh flavor and color.
Dairy-Free/Vegan: Easily make these vegan by using plant-based butter, dairy-free sour cream (like a cashew-based one), and unsweetened almond or oat milk.

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