Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

The first time I made Crockpot Mashed Potatoes, I was hosting a cozy winter gathering with friends. The aroma of buttery, creamy potatoes filled my kitchen, wrapping us in warmth as the snow fell gently outside. I had always loved mashed potatoes, but making them in the crockpot changed everything. No watching over boiling pots or worrying about timing; all I had to do was prep and let the slow cooker work its magic.

As the evening unfolded, my friends couldn’t stop raving about the Crockpot Mashed Potatoes. They were fluffy, decadent, and infused with just the right amount of seasoning. We all sat around the table, sharing stories and laughter while loading our plates with this delightful comfort food. There’s something about mashed potatoes that brings people together, and this recipe quickly became a staple at our gatherings.

It’s amazing how a simple dish like mashed potatoes can create lasting memories and enhance the joy of sharing a meal. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a hearty dish after a long day, this recipe is a go-to. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s bring those cozy feelings to your kitchen with my favorite Crockpot Mashed Potatoes.

Shopping List for Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making the best Crockpot Mashed Potatoes. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that creamy, velvety texture and rich flavor that we all crave. From the fluffy potatoes to the luscious butter and cream cheese, they work in harmony to deliver the ultimate comfort food experience.

• 4 pounds Idaho potatoes – These are the star of the dish, offering the perfect starchy base for fluffy mashed potatoes.
• 6 tablespoons salted butter – Adds richness and flavor that is essential for delicious mashed potatoes.
• 8 ounces cream cheese – Provides a creamy texture and slight tanginess, enhancing the overall mouthfeel.
• 2 cups whole milk – This adds creaminess and helps achieve the desired consistency.
• Salt & pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out the flavors and ensuring the dish is perfectly seasoned.

Making Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Making Crockpot Mashed Potatoes is a breeze, and you’ll love the simplicity of the process. Let’s dive into the steps to create this creamy masterpiece. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to whip these up!

1. Start by peeling and rinsing your potatoes. This is a crucial first step to ensure they are clean and ready for cooking. I usually cut them into even-sized cubes, approximately 1 inch by 1 inch, to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Place the cubed potatoes into a cold crockpot. This helps them cook gently and evenly, resulting in a creamier texture.
3. Add cold water until the potatoes are just covered. This step is vital as it ensures that they cook properly without drying out.
4. Sprinkle a generous amount of salt over the potatoes. I find that seasoning at this stage helps infuse the potatoes with flavor.
5. Cover with a lid and set your crockpot to cook on high for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. You’ll know they’re done when you can easily pierce them with a fork.
6. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them carefully, ensuring to remove the excess water. Return the potatoes to the warm crockpot. This will help keep them warm as you mash them.
7. Add in the butter, cream cheese, and milk to the potatoes. Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash everything together until you reach your desired consistency.
8. As you mash, taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings. Add more salt or pepper to your liking. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!
9. Serve immediately for the best flavor, but if you want to keep them warm, switch your crockpot to the ‘keep warm’ function. Adding a tablespoon or two of butter on top can help keep the potatoes moist.
10. If you’re not serving them right away, just keep an eye on them to prevent the bottoms from scorching. Stir occasionally if they are kept on warm for more than two hours.

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, here are some fun tips for customizing your Crockpot Mashed Potatoes. Whether adding a twist to the flavor or trying a new style, these suggestions will keep your meals exciting!

• Add Cheese: Mix in your favorite shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy twist. This adds flavor and a creamy texture.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can enhance the taste and add a pop of color to your dish.
• Spice It Up: For a little kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper or hot sauce to the mix.
• Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Top with crispy shallots, cooked bacon bits, or sautéed mushrooms for a loaded version that everyone will love.
• Twice-Baked Style: After mashing, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until golden for a twice-baked effect.
• Vegan Version: Substitute butter and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives like vegan butter and cashew cream.

What to Serve With Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

When it comes to serving Crockpot Mashed Potatoes, you have an array of delicious options to complement this comfort food staple. Here’s a list of ideas to inspire your meal planning:

• Roast Chicken: The rich flavors of roast chicken pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes.
• Beef Stew: Serve alongside a hearty beef stew for a warming winter dinner that’s sure to satisfy.
• Vegetarian Options: Consider pairing with a robust mushroom gravy or a flavorful vegetable stir-fry for a vegetarian meal.
• Green Beans: A side of sautéed green beans or steamed broccoli adds a lovely color contrast and freshness to the plate.
• Occasions: These mashed potatoes are perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or even casual weeknight meals.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to restore creaminess.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are a delightful way to enjoy a classic comfort food with minimal effort. Their creamy texture and rich flavor are sure to impress at any meal. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, these mashed potatoes are bound to be a crowd-pleaser. I encourage you to try making them tonight—you won’t regret it!

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

The ultimate comfort food, these Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are creamy, buttery, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for any occasion, they’ll have you craving more. Serve them tonight and enjoy the delightful, rich flavors!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 10 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Slow Cooker
• Peeler

Ingredients

  

• 4 pounds Idaho potatoes
• 6 tablespoons salted butter
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Start by peeling and rinsing your potatoes. This is a crucial first step to ensure they are clean and ready for cooking. I usually cut them into even-sized cubes, approximately 1 inch by 1 inch, to ensure they cook evenly.
• Place the cubed potatoes into a cold crockpot. This helps them cook gently and evenly, resulting in a creamier texture.
• Add cold water until the potatoes are just covered. This step is vital as it ensures that they cook properly without drying out.
• Sprinkle a generous amount of salt over the potatoes. I find that seasoning at this stage helps infuse the potatoes with flavor.
• Cover with a lid and set your crockpot to cook on high for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. You’ll know they’re done when you can easily pierce them with a fork.
• Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them carefully, ensuring to remove the excess water. Return the potatoes to the warm crockpot. This will help keep them warm as you mash them.
• Add in the butter, cream cheese, and milk to the potatoes. Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash everything together until you reach your desired consistency.
• As you mash, taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings. Add more salt or pepper to your liking. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!
• Serve immediately for the best flavor, but if you want to keep them warm, switch your crockpot to the ‘keep warm’ function. Adding a tablespoon or two of butter on top can help keep the potatoes moist.
• If you’re not serving them right away, just keep an eye on them to prevent the bottoms from scorching. Stir occasionally if they are kept on warm for more than two hours.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to restore creaminess.
• Tip 2: Consider pairing Crockpot Mashed Potatoes with a robust mushroom gravy or a flavorful vegetable stir-fry for a vegetarian meal.
• Tip 3: For the best texture, use starchy potatoes like Idaho or Russet. They break down easily and create fluffier mashed potatoes.
• Tip 4: If your Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are too thick, gradually add more milk until you achieve your desired creaminess.
• Tip 5: Always serve your mashed potatoes warm. If they cool down, they can become dense, losing their fluffy appeal.

Keyword creamy mashed potatoes, Crockpot Mashed Potatoes, easy mashed potatoes recipe, side dish recipes

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Meet Elena Vance

I am passionate about the idea that we eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make food look just as good as it tastes. I work closely with the team to style and photograph our dishes, giving you a clear, beautiful guide on what to aim for. I had so much fun preparing this recipe, and I hope you find just as much joy in making it (and eating it!) as we did.