Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Name: Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 250 min
Ingredients: 5 pounds russet potatoes (peeled and diced); 1.5 cups chicken broth (low sodium); 0.5 cup sour cream (full-fat for creaminess); 0.5 cup butter (unsalted); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; to taste salt (preferably sea salt); to taste black pepper (freshly ground)

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By: Maria
Posted: 05/16/2025

Delving into the world of comfort food, this incredible Slow Cooker mashed potato recipe is a game-changer that you’ll want to make every week. With the ease of a slow cooker, these potatoes turn out rich, creamy, and absolutely irresistible. Not only does this dish simplify preparation, but it delivers exceptional flavor, making it a perfect side for any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is a must-try for your culinary repertoire.

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When I first introduced this dish to my family during a particularly busy holiday season, it quickly became a staple at our dinner table. My grandmother, known for her impeccable mashed potatoes, even gave it two thumbs up. The Slow Cooker not only freed up my oven for other dishes but also enhanced the creamy texture that everyone loved. It was a hit, and now it’s a much-anticipated dish at every family gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is unique because it combines the convenience of a Slow Cooker with the creamy, buttery taste of traditional mashed potatoes. Not only does it require minimal hands-on time, but it’s also practically foolproof. Unlike stove-top methods, using a slow cooker prevents any risk of overcooking. Additionally, the extended cooking time allows the flavors to meld, resulting in an incredibly savory side dish.

Ingredients Notes

For the best results, use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and buttery flavor. Feel free to substitute with Russet potatoes if preferred, but keep in mind they may require more moisture. For added richness, real butter and CREAM CHEESE are recommended. Those looking to lighten this dish can opt for low-fat milk or substitute with vegetable broth for a plant-based option.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Peel and cube the potatoes into even-sized chunks, ensuring they cook evenly. Place them in your Slow Cooker.

Step 2

Add broth, garlic, and season with salt. Stir well to ensure the potatoes are coated and the seasoning is distributed.

Step 3

Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender when poked with a fork.

Step 4

Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and mash the potatoes directly in the slow cooker. Use a potato masher or immersion blender for your desired smoothness.

Step 5

Add butter, cream cheese, and milk, stirring until everything is fully incorporated and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Storage Options

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, portion the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding extra milk to restore creaminess if necessary.

Variations & Substitutions

For a healthier twist, substitute some or all of the butter with olive oil. If avoiding dairy, use coconut milk and plant-based butter. To add a punch of flavor, consider mixing in roasted garlic or grated cheddar cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is perfect as a comforting side for roast chicken or beef. It’s equally delightful at holiday dinners or as a cozy weekday treat. Consider garnishing with chopped chives or parsley for added freshness and color.

frequently asked questions

Can I make this recipe in advance? Absolutely! This dish can be prepared up to a day in advance. Reheat it gently before serving, and add a bit more milk or broth if it seems too thick.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker? No worries! You can make these mashed potatoes on the stovetop using a large pot. After boiling the potatoes until tender, mash them with the remaining ingredients as directed.

How can I make this recipe vegan? Simply swap the butter and cream cheese for plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of milk to achieve a vegan-friendly dish full of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these Slow Cooker mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can absolutely make this recipe ahead of time! Prepare the mashed potatoes up to a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy consistency if needed. For longer storage, you can freeze the mashed potatoes in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.

What are some good ingredient substitutions for this Slow Cooker mashed potato recipe?

For a healthier option, you can substitute some or all of the butter with olive oil, using a 1:1 ratio. If you’re avoiding dairy, use coconut milk and plant-based butter instead of milk and butter. You can also substitute Yukon Gold potatoes with Russet potatoes, but you might need to add a bit more liquid during the cooking process. For a flavor boost, consider adding roasted garlic or grated cheddar cheese before serving.

How do I know when the potatoes are perfectly cooked in the slow cooker?

The potatoes are perfectly cooked when they are fork-tender. After the initial cooking time of 4-6 hours on low, you can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the potatoes. If the fork easily slides through the potato cubes with little resistance, they are ready. Also, the potatoes should have a soft, slightly falling-apart texture. Avoid overcooking, as this can result in a watery consistency after mashing.

Can I double or scale up this Slow Cooker mashed potato recipe?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe! Just ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume of potatoes and other ingredients. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, adding an extra hour or so on low, depending on your slow cooker’s capacity. Be sure to check the potatoes for doneness as described in the instructions. When scaling up, you may also need to use an immersion blender to fully mash the potatoes.

What are the nutritional benefits of this Slow Cooker mashed potato recipe?

This recipe offers several nutritional benefits. Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. The milk and cream cheese contribute calcium and protein. Using Yukon Gold potatoes provides beta-carotene. While butter and cream cheese add richness and flavor, consider using olive oil and low-fat dairy alternatives to further boost the health profile. The addition of garlic also offers potential health benefits.

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Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

A creamy and delicious side dish that's perfect for any meal. The slow cooker does all the work to ensure these mashed potatoes have the perfect consistency.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes