Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare and utterly delicious, you’ve come to the right place. This Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Recipe takes the humble side dish to new heights by using the slow cooker to get creamy, tender potatoes with minimal effort. The flavors meld beautifully, and the texture is just perfect, making it a winning addition to any meal. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, these mashed potatoes will quickly become one of your favorites to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple ingredients is the secret here. Each one plays a crucial role in creating mashed potatoes that are rich, smooth, and bursting with flavor. From the buttery richness to the subtle hints of garlic and onion powders, every element works together to elevate this classic dish.

• 5 pounds russet potatoes: Perfect for mashing because of their fluffy texture when cooked.
• 3 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and savory moisture without diluting the potato’s flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Gives a gentle, aromatic kick without overpowering the dish.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings subtle warmth and complements the potatoes beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice to balance the creaminess.
• 1 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature): Gives silky smoothness and tangy richness.
• 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter: A key player for that luscious buttery flavor.
• ½ cup half-and-half or milk: Perfect for adjusting the consistency to your favorite creaminess.
• Butter, chives, parsley, shredded cheese, bacon bits (optional): Great topping choices to add texture, color, and extra flavor.

How to Make Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by cleaning your russet potatoes thoroughly, then cut them into evenly sized cubes. This ensures even cooking and a smooth mash later on. Pop those cubes straight into your crockpot for the magic to begin.

Step 2: Add the Chicken Broth

Pour the chicken broth right over the potatoes. This liquid will gently cook the potatoes to perfection and infuse them with incredible flavor, eliminating the need for plain water or additional fats at this stage.

Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender

Set your crockpot to low and cook for 6 to 7 hours, or if time is tighter, use high for 3 to 4 hours. You’re aiming for potatoes that are fork tender—soft enough to mash easily, but not falling apart into mush.

Step 4: Drain and Reserve Broth

Once the potatoes are tender, take them off the heat and drain carefully, saving some of the chicken broth. This reserved broth will come in handy to adjust the mash’s consistency later on, so don’t toss it out.

Step 5: Mash the Potatoes

Return the potatoes to the crockpot or a large bowl and begin mashing with a potato masher. This hands-on step is where your mash starts taking shape and you get to control how smooth or chunky you want it.

Step 6: Add Seasonings, Cream Cheese, and Butter

Mix in salt, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, cream cheese, and butter. These ingredients create the backbone of your mashed potatoes’ flavor profile, balancing creaminess and seasoning perfectly.

Step 7: Combine Thoroughly

Stir everything together until the cream cheese and butter melt into every bite. This process makes your mash decadently smooth and silky, creating a texture that will impress everyone at your table.

Step 8: Adjust Consistency with Half-and-Half and Broth

Slowly add half-and-half or milk, stirring as you go, to reach the creamy texture you love. If the potatoes feel too thick, gently fold in some of the reserved chicken broth until it’s just right. This step lets you personalize your mash’s perfect fluffiness.

Step 9: Serve Immediately

Once everything is blended and creamy, it’s best to serve your Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Recipe right away for the freshest, warmest experience. It shines as a comforting side for any meal.

Step 10: Store Leftovers Properly

If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well and taste just as delicious when reheated thoughtfully.

How to Serve Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your mashed potatoes with bright, fresh garnishes like chopped chives or parsley—they add a lovely color contrast and a fresh bite. Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top for gooey richness or crispy bacon bits for a salty crunch that everyone loves.

Side Dishes

This Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, glazed ham, or a juicy steak. The creamy potatoes soak up sauces and gravies splendidly, making your entire meal feel harmonious and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning your mashed potatoes into a buttered baking dish, sprinkle with cheese and herbs, and pop under the broiler for a golden crust. Or, serve them in mini ramekins as individual portions topped with bacon and scallions for a fun twist at your next dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover mashed potatoes should always go into airtight containers and be refrigerated promptly to maintain freshness. They’ll typically stay tasty for up to 3 days, making easy lunches or additions to other meals.

Freezing

You can freeze mashed potatoes, but it’s best to do so within a day of making them. Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags and squeeze out excess air. When thawed, the potatoes might need some extra stirring and cream to refresh their creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat slowly over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk, cream, or broth as needed to bring back that silky smooth texture and avoid any drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?

While russets are ideal because of their fluffy texture, Yukon Gold potatoes work well too if you prefer a slightly buttery taste and creamier mash. Just keep in mind they might be a bit denser.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep all that wonderful flavor without any meat-based ingredients.

How creamy can I make these mashed potatoes?

The creaminess is completely up to you. Adding more half-and-half, milk, or reserved broth will create a smoother, creamier mash, so feel free to adjust according to your texture preference.

Can I add extra flavors like cheese or herbs during cooking?

Yes, you can add shredded cheese or fresh herbs towards the end of cooking or right after mashing for fresh, vibrant bursts of flavor. Just fold them in gently to keep the texture nice.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat your mashed potatoes slowly on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often, and add liquid such as milk or broth to restore the moisture and creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort dishes whenever I want something warm, hearty, and fuss-free. The slow cooker does all the hard work, leaving you with soft, flavorful mashed potatoes that feel homemade and special. Give it a try soon—you’ll wonder how you ever made mashed potatoes any other way!

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