Super Creamy and Effortless Comfort Food
Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, and making them in the crockpot takes the hassle out of the process. If you’re looking for a creamy, buttery, and flavorful mashed potato recipe that requires minimal effort, this Crockpot Mashed Potatoes recipe is for you. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, holiday feasts, or meal prepping for the week. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a delicious side dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: The crockpot does most of the work for you—just add the ingredients, set the timer, and let it cook.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: With cream cheese, butter, and half-and-half, these mashed potatoes are ultra-luxurious.
- Perfect for Holidays: Save stovetop space during Thanksgiving or Christmas by making mashed potatoes in the slow cooker.
- Customizable: Adjust the seasonings and mix-ins to your liking, or make it dairy-free with simple swaps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 5 pounds russet potatoes, cleaned and cut into cubes
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (8 oz) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
- ½ cup half-and-half or milk
Optional Toppings:
- Additional butter
- Chopped chives
- Fresh parsley
- Shredded cheese
- Bacon bits
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (crockpot)
- Potato masher or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Ladle or slotted spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Clean and cut the russet potatoes into evenly sized cubes. This ensures they cook uniformly in the crockpot.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Potatoes
Place the cubed potatoes into the slow cooker and pour the chicken broth over them. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 3: Drain and Mash
Once the potatoes are tender, remove them from the slow cooker and drain, reserving some of the chicken broth. Return the potatoes to the slow cooker and mash them using a potato masher.
Step 4: Add the Creamy Ingredients
Stir in the salt, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, cream cheese, and butter. Mix until everything is fully combined and smooth.
Step 5: Adjust Consistency
Gradually add half-and-half (or milk), stirring as you go. If the potatoes are too thick, add some of the reserved chicken broth until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the mashed potatoes immediately, garnished with your favorite toppings.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore creaminess.
Recipe Variations & Swaps
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative, use dairy-free cream cheese, and replace half-and-half with almond milk.
- Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or Gouda for extra cheesiness.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage while cooking for extra flavor.
- Garlic Lovers: Roast a few garlic cloves and mash them in for a richer garlic flavor.
Best Food and Drink Pairings
These creamy crockpot mashed potatoes pair well with:
- Main Courses: Roast chicken, grilled steak, meatloaf, or Thanksgiving turkey.
- Side Dishes: Roasted Brussels sprouts, honey-glazed carrots, or green bean casserole.
- Drinks: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon complements the richness of the potatoes.
FAQ
1. Can I use different potatoes?
Yes! Yukon Gold potatoes will yield a slightly richer, buttery flavor, while red potatoes will create a chunkier texture.
2. Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store them in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. Adding a splash of milk while reheating helps keep them creamy.
3. What if my mashed potatoes turn out too thick?
Simply add more half-and-half, milk, or reserved chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’re good to go.
5. Can I use a hand mixer instead of a potato masher?
Yes! A hand mixer or immersion blender will create an even smoother texture.
Final Thoughts
These Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are a game-changer when it comes to easy, creamy, and flavorful mashed potatoes. Perfect for holidays or weeknight meals, this recipe ensures you have a stress-free side dish with minimal effort.
If you loved this recipe, please share it with friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious and easy recipes straight to your inbox. Happy cooking!
