Imagine perfectly creamy, incredibly flavorful mashed potatoes, prepared with minimal effort and without monopolizing your precious stovetop space. This isn’t a dream – it’s the reality of these **Crockpot Mashed Potatoes**. The ultimate solution for feeding a crowd, making holiday meals stress-free, or simply enjoying a delicious, hands-off side dish on any given weeknight.

If you’re a fan of the convenience of slow cooker dishes, you’ll love this recipe. For another delightful crockpot favorite, be sure to try these Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes.

The Secret to Stress-Free, Crowd-Pleasing Mashed Potatoes

As a lifelong potato enthusiast, it’s safe to say that my family shares my passion. Potatoes, especially when mashed to perfection, hold a special place on our dinner table. While I cherish my favorite traditional mashed potato recipe, there are times when efficiency and ease become paramount, particularly during holidays or when hosting a large gathering.

This is precisely where the magic of **Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes** comes into play. This recipe yields a generous amount—approximately 9 cups—making it ideal for larger groups without any added stress. The true beauty of this method lies in its simplicity: all the cooking and mashing happen directly in the slow cooker. This not only minimizes cleanup but, more importantly, keeps your stovetop entirely free for preparing other essential dishes, a game-changer for any busy kitchen.

Why Choose the Crockpot for Your Mashed Potatoes?

Opting for a crockpot to prepare your mashed potatoes offers a multitude of benefits, transforming what can often be a demanding side dish into an effortless culinary delight:

• Unmatched Convenience: Simply add your ingredients, set the timer, and let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. This hands-off approach frees you to focus on other aspects of meal preparation, making it perfect for busy hosts or weeknight dinners.
• Perfect for Large Gatherings: The substantial capacity of most slow cookers means you can easily prepare a large batch of mashed potatoes, enough to satisfy any crowd, from family dinners to festive holiday feasts like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Frees Up Stovetop Space: During holidays, stovetop burners are prime real estate. By cooking your mashed potatoes in the crockpot, you liberate valuable stove space for gravies, vegetables, or other complex dishes.
• Consistent Temperature & Texture: The slow and steady cooking process ensures that potatoes cook evenly and become incredibly tender, resulting in a consistently creamy and smooth texture that’s difficult to achieve with traditional boiling methods.
• Keep Warm Functionality: One of the greatest advantages is the “keep warm” setting. Once mashed, your potatoes can stay perfectly warm and ready to serve for hours without drying out or becoming overcooked, ideal for staggered meal times or buffet-style serving.
• Minimal Cleanup: All the cooking and mashing occur in one pot, significantly reducing the amount of dishwashing required afterward. Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal and company!

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Crafting the perfect batch of creamy mashed potatoes starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that sought-after flavor and luxurious texture:

• Potatoes: The star of our show! Your choice of potato significantly impacts the final texture. Starchy potatoes like Russets or all-purpose varieties like Yukon Golds are highly recommended. We’ll delve deeper into the best potato types below to help you make the perfect selection for your desired consistency.
• Chicken Broth: More than just a cooking liquid, chicken broth infuses the potatoes with a subtle savory depth, enhancing their overall flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, simply substitute with vegetable broth or even water, though broth adds a richer taste.
• Butter: This golden ingredient is used in two stages. A portion is added during the cooking phase to help tenderize the potatoes and imbue them with richness, while the remainder is mixed in during mashing for an extra velvety texture and indulgent flavor. Using high-quality butter truly makes a difference.
• Garlic: While optional, minced garlic adds a wonderful aromatic complexity to the mashed potatoes. It elevates the flavor beyond basic seasoning, offering a delightful subtle kick. If you’re not a fan, feel free to omit it, but we highly recommend its inclusion!
• Milk: Essential for achieving that smooth, creamy consistency, milk is incorporated during the mashing process. Any type of milk works well, from whole milk for maximum richness to 2% (which I typically use) or even dairy-free alternatives, depending on your dietary preferences.
• Sour Cream: This ingredient is a game-changer, introducing a delightful tang and an incredible creaminess that elevates the mashed potatoes from good to extraordinary. It adds a lovely richness without being overly heavy. Cream cheese or Greek yogurt can be used as alternatives for a similar effect.
• Salt and Pepper: These humble seasonings are crucial to the success of your mashed potatoes. Potatoes require generous seasoning to truly shine. Always taste and adjust as needed throughout the mashing process. Don’t be shy – you’ll likely need more than you expect to bring out their full flavor! Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for superior aroma and taste.

Optional Flavor Enhancements & Variations:

While the base recipe is fantastic on its own, don’t hesitate to customize your Crockpot Mashed Potatoes with these delicious additions:

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped chives, parsley, rosemary, or thyme stirred in at the end add fresh flavor and a beautiful pop of color.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or cream cheese melted into the hot potatoes provides extra richness and a savory kick.
• Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon bits mixed in or sprinkled on top offer a delightful salty crunch.
• Roasted Garlic: For a deeper, sweeter garlic flavor, consider roasting whole garlic cloves until soft, then mashing them into the potatoes.
• Caramelized Onions: Sweet, tender caramelized onions folded into the potatoes add an incredible depth of flavor.
• Brown Butter: For an extra layer of nutty flavor, brown a portion of the butter before adding it to the potatoes.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Creating perfectly creamy mashed potatoes in your slow cooker is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a truly effortless experience:

1. STEP 1: Prepare the Potatoes for Cooking. Begin by peeling your chosen potatoes (if desired for Russets, or if aiming for a very smooth texture with Yukon Golds). Then, cut the potatoes into uniform 2-inch pieces. Consistency in size is key here, as it ensures all potatoes cook at the same rate. Place these prepared potato pieces into your 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the potatoes, then add 1/4 cup of the butter, cubed, and the minced garlic. Stir everything gently to combine, then cover your slow cooker with the lid.
2. STEP 2: Slow Cook to Perfection. Set your slow cooker to the “low” setting and cook for 6-8 hours, or if you’re short on time, use the “high” setting for 3-4 hours. During this cooking period, make sure to stir the potatoes every 1-2 hours. This crucial step helps ensure even cooking, preventing some potatoes from becoming mushy while others remain firm. The potatoes are ready when they are incredibly tender and easily pierced with a fork.
3. STEP 3: Mash and Season. Once the potatoes are perfectly tender, remove the lid. Add the sour cream, the remaining 1/4 cup of butter, and 1/2 cup of milk to the slow cooker. Now, it’s time to mash! You can use a traditional potato masher directly in the crockpot for a rustic texture, or a hand-held electric mixer for an ultra-smooth consistency. Mash until your desired smoothness is achieved, adding more milk gradually, a tablespoon at a time, if you prefer a looser, creamier mash.
4. STEP 4: Taste and Adjust. This is perhaps the most important step for flavorful mashed potatoes. Generously season the mashed potatoes with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste, and then adjust the seasoning as needed. Potatoes are notorious for needing more salt than you might initially think, so don’t be afraid to add more until the flavor truly pops.
5. STEP 5: Serve or Keep Warm. Your delicious Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are now ready to be served immediately! If you’re not serving right away, simply switch your slow cooker to the “warm” setting. They can be held here for up to 2-3 hours, remaining perfectly hot and creamy. Give them another stir just before serving to ensure uniform temperature and consistency.

Expert Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Achieving consistently perfect mashed potatoes from your crockpot is simple with these additional insights:

• Stir for Even Cooking: Do not skip the intermittent stirring! Agitating the potatoes every 1-2 hours during the cooking cycle helps ensure that all pieces are submerged and cook evenly, preventing dry spots or unevenly cooked chunks.
• Utilize the “Warm” Setting: After mashing, your slow cooker’s “warm” function is your best friend. It allows you to keep the mashed potatoes hot and ready for serving for several hours without drying them out. Just remember to give them a good stir before dishing them out.
• For Extra Richness: Don’t be shy with the dairy! If you desire an even richer, more indulgent mashed potato, feel free to incorporate additional sour cream, a splash of heavy cream, or more butter. A dollop of cream cheese can also add incredible richness and tang.
• Seasoning is Key: I cannot emphasize this enough – proper seasoning with salt and pepper is paramount. Potatoes absorb a lot of salt. Taste frequently during the mashing process and adjust until the flavor is bright and balanced. Under-seasoned mashed potatoes can be bland, while perfectly seasoned ones are truly sublime. Consider using freshly cracked black pepper for a superior aroma and flavor.
• Avoid Over-Mashing: While a hand mixer can achieve very smooth results, be careful not to over-mash your potatoes. Over-mashing can break down too much starch, leading to a gluey, unappetizing texture. Mash just until smooth, then stop.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare these mashed potatoes a day in advance. After mashing, let them cool slightly, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat gently in the slow cooker on low (stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or broth if needed) or in the oven.
• Add a Splash of Warmth: If your mashed potatoes seem a bit thick or dry after resting on the warm setting or reheating, simply stir in a tablespoon or two of warm milk or broth until they reach your desired consistency.

Choosing the Best Potatoes for Your Slow Cooker Mash

The type of potato you select significantly influences the texture of your mashed potatoes. I’ve successfully made this recipe with both Russet and Yukon Gold varieties, each offering a slightly different experience:

• Russet Potatoes (Baking Potatoes): These are classic choices for mashed potatoes due to their high starch content and fluffy texture when cooked.
  • Characteristics: Russets have a thick, brown skin and a white, mealy interior. They break down easily, making them perfect for light, airy mashed potatoes.
  • Preparation: When using Russets for this recipe, it is highly recommended to peel them first. Their skins are tough and can make for an unappealing texture in mashed form.
  • Cooking Time: In my experience, Russet potatoes tend to take a bit longer to cook in the slow cooker compared to Yukon Golds. You might need to add an extra hour or two to ensure they are exceptionally tender.
  • Tip: Ensure Russets are *super tender* before mashing. If they retain any firmness, you risk ending up with unpleasantly lumpy or even slightly gluey mashed potatoes.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes (All-Purpose Potatoes): My personal favorite for these crockpot mashed potatoes, Yukon Golds offer a beautifully creamy and buttery result.
  • Characteristics: These potatoes have a thinner, yellowish skin and a moist, golden-yellow flesh. They are less starchy than Russets but creamier, providing a naturally buttery flavor.
  • Preparation: You have the flexibility to either peel Yukon Golds or leave their skins on.
    • For a more traditional, super smooth mashed potato, peel them before cooking.
    • For a rustic, slightly heartier mash with added texture and nutrients, feel free to leave the skins on. Both methods yield delicious results.
  • Cooking Time: Yukon Golds generally cook faster and more consistently in the slow cooker due to their structure.
  • Tip: Their natural creaminess makes them more forgiving when mashing, reducing the risk of a gluey texture.
• Red Potatoes (Waxy Potatoes): While not typically chosen for fluffy mashed potatoes, red potatoes can be used for a different style of mash.
  • Characteristics: Red potatoes are waxy with a thin skin and moist, firm flesh. They hold their shape well after cooking.
  • Preparation: Definitely leave the skins on for red potatoes, as they are thin and add color and texture.
  • Texture: Expect a denser, chunkier, and more rustic mash compared to Russets or Yukon Golds.
  • Best For: If you prefer a less creamy, more textured mashed potato, or are looking for a potato salad-like consistency, red potatoes could be an interesting variation.

Ultimately, the “best” potato depends on your preference for texture. For guaranteed creaminess and ease in the slow cooker, Yukon Golds are a top recommendation. If a classic fluffy mash is your goal, Russets, with careful attention to cooking time and tenderness, will deliver.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Can I make Crockpot Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is one of their biggest advantages. You can cook and mash them up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently in the slow cooker on the “low” or “warm” setting, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess.

How do I store leftover mashed potatoes?

Store any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They reheat beautifully!

What’s the best way to reheat mashed potatoes?

For best results, reheat leftovers in a saucepan on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a little milk or broth until creamy. You can also reheat them in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each, or in the oven covered with foil at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.

Can I freeze mashed potatoes?

Yes, mashed potatoes freeze quite well, especially if they are rich with butter and cream. Let them cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. They can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed above, adding extra liquid as needed.

How can I prevent my mashed potatoes from becoming gluey?

The key is not to over-mash! Over-mashing overworks the starch in the potatoes, leading to a gluey texture. Mash just until lumps disappear and your desired consistency is reached. Also, using a potato masher or a ricer instead of a food processor or blender helps prevent this.

Can I use water instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can. However, chicken or vegetable broth adds a significant layer of flavor to the potatoes that water simply can’t provide. If using water, you might want to increase the amount of salt and consider adding an extra bouillon cube for flavor.

Explore More Delicious Potato Recipes

If you’ve mastered these Crockpot Mashed Potatoes and are looking for more ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable, here are some other fantastic mashed potato recipes to try:

• Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Brown Butter: A sweet and savory twist perfect for any occasion.
• My Favorite Mashed Potato Recipe: Discover the classic that started it all!
• Blue Cheese and Walnut Mashed Potatoes: An adventurous and gourmet take on traditional mash.

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Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

No ratings yet

Author:
Deborah Harroun

Prep Time:

20
minutes

Cook Time:

4
hours

Total Time:

4
hours
20
minutes

Servings:

18
servings

Course:
Side Dish

Cuisine:
American

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The easiest mashed potatoes ever, these Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are perfect for feeding a crowd! Free up the stove top to make this easy mashed potato recipe.

Ingredients

• 5 lbs potatoes*
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup butter divided
• 2-3 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2-1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cut the potatoes into 2 inch pieces. Place in a 6 quart slow cooker.
2. Pour the chicken broth over the top. Cube 1/4 cup of the butter, and drop the cubes over the top. Sprinkle the garlic over the top, then place the lid on the slow cooker.
3. Cook on high for 3-4 hours, or low for 6-8 hours, stirring every 1-2 hours to make sure the potatoes cook evenly.
4. When the potatoes are very tender, remove the lid. Add the sour cream and the remaining 1/4 cup of butter. Add 1/2 cup of the milk. Mash the potatoes until as smooth as desired, adding more milk if needed. Season generously with salt and pepper, adding as much as needed to taste.
5. The potatoes can be served right away, or left on the warm setting until ready to serve.

Recipe Notes:

Yukon gold potatoes will cook faster than russet potatoes. I prefer removing the skin, but if desired, you can leave the skin on if using Yukon gold potatoes.

Nutrition information provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide. Nutrition information is figured using Yukon gold potatoes.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 182kcal (9%),
Carbohydrates: 27g (9%),
Protein: 4g (8%),
Fat: 7g (11%),
Saturated Fat: 4g (25%),
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 2g,
Trans Fat: 0g,
Cholesterol: 19mg (6%),
Sodium: 60mg (3%),
Fiber: 3g (13%),
Sugar: 2g (2%),
Calcium: -20mg (-2%)

Keywords:
crockpot potatoes, holiday side dish, mashed potatoes