Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are a revelation, a culinary game-changer for anyone who loves creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes but wants to simplify the cooking process. In my household, mashed potatoes are a staple, especially during holidays and cozy weeknight dinners. However, juggling stovetop cooking with other dishes can become a bit chaotic, especially when you’re aiming for a stress-free meal. That’s where the magic of the crockpot comes in. I decided to try this Crockpot Mashed Potato recipe on a busy Sunday, and let me tell you, it was a resounding success. The potatoes were incredibly smooth, rich, and flavorful, and the hands-off cooking method freed me up to focus on other parts of the meal. My family, notoriously picky about their mashed potatoes, devoured them, proclaiming them the “best ever.” The subtle sweetness from the slow cooking process combined with the creamy texture was simply irresistible. If you’re looking for an effortless way to make perfect mashed potatoes, this crockpot recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s become a regular in our rotation, and I’m confident it will become a favorite in yours too.

Ingredients

To create these incredibly creamy and flavorful Crockpot Mashed Potatoes, you’ll need just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the potatoes to shine while being enhanced by the richness of dairy and seasonings. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• 5 pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are the star of this dish, and for good reason. Their naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture make them ideal for mashed potatoes. They are also moderately starchy, striking a perfect balance that results in fluffy yet substantial mashed potatoes without becoming gluey. You can also use Russet potatoes if you prefer a fluffier, less dense texture. However, Yukon Golds are generally considered superior for their creamy consistency in this recipe.
• 1 cup Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth for vegetarian option): The broth is essential for cooking the potatoes in the crockpot. It provides moisture, prevents the potatoes from sticking to the bottom, and infuses them with a subtle savory flavor. Chicken broth adds a richer depth, but vegetable broth works equally well for a vegetarian version and maintains a delicious savory profile. Using broth instead of just water also contributes to a more flavorful final product.
• 1 cup Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is the key to achieving that luxuriously creamy texture we all crave in mashed potatoes. It adds richness and body, making the potatoes incredibly smooth and decadent. You can substitute half-and-half for a slightly lighter version, but heavy cream truly elevates the dish to restaurant-quality mashed potatoes. For a dairy-free option, you can use full-fat coconut milk, though it will impart a subtle coconut flavor.
• 8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened: Softened cream cheese is the secret ingredient that takes these mashed potatoes to the next level of creaminess and tanginess. It melts beautifully into the potatoes, creating a velvety smooth texture and adding a delightful hint of richness and complexity. Ensure the cream cheese is properly softened to room temperature for easier incorporation and a lump-free result.
• 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, cut into cubes: Butter is crucial for flavor and richness in mashed potatoes. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish. Cutting it into cubes helps it melt evenly and incorporate smoothly into the hot potatoes. Butter adds a classic, comforting flavor that complements the potatoes and cream cheese perfectly.
• 2 teaspoons Garlic Powder: Garlic powder provides a savory depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the mashed potatoes without being overpowering. It adds a subtle aromatic warmth that complements the creamy richness. You can adjust the amount to your preference, or substitute with fresh minced garlic sautéed lightly before adding if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper to taste: Salt and pepper are essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the other flavors. Salt is particularly important for bringing out the natural sweetness of the potatoes and the richness of the dairy. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and complexity. Season generously to taste, remembering that the potatoes will absorb a good amount of seasoning. It’s always best to season in stages, tasting and adjusting as you go.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh chopped chives, parsley, or shredded cheddar cheese (for serving) – While the mashed potatoes are delicious on their own, garnishes can add a touch of freshness, color, and extra flavor. Fresh chives or parsley provide a bright, herbaceous note, while shredded cheddar cheese adds a cheesy richness for those who love cheesy mashed potatoes. These are optional but recommended to elevate the presentation and flavor profile when serving.

These simple yet high-quality ingredients combine to create Crockpot Mashed Potatoes that are far from ordinary. The slow cooking process in the crockpot allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in mashed potatoes that are incredibly creamy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible.

Instructions

Making Crockpot Mashed Potatoes is surprisingly straightforward, offering a hands-off approach that is perfect for busy days or when you’re preparing a large meal. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfectly creamy and delicious mashed potatoes with minimal effort:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by thoroughly washing the Yukon Gold potatoes under cold running water. Scrub them to remove any dirt or debris from the skin. There’s no need to peel the potatoes for this recipe, as the skins will soften beautifully during the slow cooking process and can be easily mashed in for added nutrients and texture, or removed afterward if preferred. Once washed, cut the potatoes into roughly 2-inch chunks. Uniform size chunks ensure even cooking in the crockpot. Place the potato chunks directly into your crockpot.
2. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) over the potatoes in the crockpot. The broth should just barely cover the bottom of the pot, creating steam to cook the potatoes. Next, sprinkle the garlic powder generously over the potatoes. Season with salt and black pepper. Start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and remember you can adjust seasoning later to taste. Stir everything gently to ensure the potatoes are somewhat coated with the seasonings.
3. Slow Cook the Potatoes: Cover the crockpot with its lid. Set the crockpot to cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your specific crockpot model and the size of your potato chunks. The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender, meaning a fork can easily pierce through them with minimal resistance. Check for doneness around the 6-hour mark on low or 3-hour mark on high, and continue cooking if needed until they are fully tender. Slow cooking on low heat generally yields creamier results as it allows the potatoes to cook more gently and absorb moisture evenly.
4. Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are fork-tender, it’s time to mash them. You have a couple of options for mashing:
   • Using a Potato Masher: For a slightly chunkier, more rustic mashed potato, you can mash them directly in the crockpot using a potato masher. This method is quick and easy, and you can control the texture to your liking.
   • Using an Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: For incredibly smooth and creamy mashed potatoes, use an electric hand mixer or stand mixer. Carefully transfer the cooked potatoes and any remaining broth from the crockpot to a large mixing bowl. Add the softened cream cheese and cubed butter to the hot potatoes. Using the mixer on low speed initially to avoid splattering, begin to mash the potatoes. Gradually increase the speed as the potatoes become smoother. Mix until the potatoes are perfectly smooth and creamy, incorporating the cream cheese and butter thoroughly. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the potatoes gluey.
5. Add Cream and Final Seasoning: After mashing the potatoes to your desired consistency, pour in the heavy cream. Mix gently to incorporate the cream into the mashed potatoes, adding richness and further enhancing the creamy texture. Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt and pepper to taste, or a pinch more garlic powder if you desire a stronger garlic flavor. You can also add a little more cream if you prefer an even creamier consistency.
6. Serve and Garnish (Optional): Your Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are now ready to serve! Keep them warm in the crockpot on the “warm” setting until you are ready to serve. Just before serving, you can garnish the mashed potatoes with fresh chopped chives, parsley, or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese if desired. These garnishes add a touch of freshness and visual appeal. Serve hot and enjoy these incredibly creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes as a perfect side dish to your favorite meals.

Following these simple instructions will result in foolproof Crockpot Mashed Potatoes that are sure to impress. The slow cooking method ensures perfectly tender potatoes with minimal effort, and the addition of cream cheese and heavy cream creates a texture that is simply divine.

Nutrition Facts

This nutrition information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. It is calculated based on the ingredients listed in the recipe and divided into approximate servings.

Servings: Approximately 10-12 servings

Per Serving (Approximate):

• Calories: 350-400
• Total Fat: 25-30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15-20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 5-7g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1-2g
• Cholesterol: 80-90mg
• Sodium: 300-400mg (can vary based on broth and seasoning)
• Total Carbohydrate: 30-35g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3-4g
  • Sugars: 3-5g
• Protein: 5-7g
• Vitamin C: 20-25% DV (Daily Value)
• Potassium: 700-800mg
• Calcium: 50-60mg
• Iron: 5-7% DV

Important Notes:

• These values are estimates and can fluctuate based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used (e.g., different brands of cream cheese, butter, or broth may have slightly varying nutritional content).
• Serving sizes can also impact the nutritional values. The estimate is based on a standard serving size of about 1 cup of mashed potatoes.
• For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.
• This recipe is relatively high in fat and calories due to the heavy cream, butter, and cream cheese. If you are looking to reduce the fat and calorie content, you can make substitutions such as using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or reducing the amount of butter or cream cheese slightly. However, these substitutions may slightly alter the texture and richness of the mashed potatoes.

This nutritional breakdown provides a general idea of what to expect per serving of Crockpot Mashed Potatoes. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

The beauty of Crockpot Mashed Potatoes is their ease of preparation, requiring minimal hands-on time and allowing the slow cooker to do most of the work. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation and cooking times:

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
  • This includes washing and scrubbing the potatoes.
  • Chopping the potatoes into chunks.
  • Gathering and measuring out the remaining ingredients (broth, cream cheese, butter, seasonings).
  • Placing the potatoes and broth into the crockpot and adding seasonings.
  • Softening the cream cheese (if not already done).
  • Cutting the butter into cubes.
• Cook Time:
  • Low Setting: 6-8 hours
  • High Setting: 3-4 hours
  • The cook time depends on your crockpot’s heat and the size of your potato chunks. Larger chunks may take longer to cook.
  • It’s recommended to start checking for doneness around the minimum cook time and adjust as needed. Potatoes are ready when they are fork-tender.
• Mashing and Finishing Time: 10-15 minutes
  • This includes mashing the potatoes using a potato masher or electric mixer.
  • Adding the heavy cream, butter, and cream cheese and incorporating them fully.
  • Adjusting seasonings to taste.
  • Transferring to a serving dish or keeping warm in the crockpot.
• Total Time (Approximate):
  • Low Setting: 6 hours 25 minutes – 8 hours 35 minutes
  • High Setting: 3 hours 25 minutes – 4 hours 35 minutes

Hands-on Time: Approximately 25-35 minutes (Prep + Mashing/Finishing)

Active Cooking Time: Minimal. The crockpot does the majority of the cooking unattended.

Make-Ahead Tips:

• You can prep the potatoes (wash and chop) up to a day ahead and store them in cold water to prevent browning. Drain them well before adding to the crockpot.
• The mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time and kept warm in the crockpot on the “warm” setting for up to 2-3 hours before serving.
• For longer make-ahead, you can fully prepare the mashed potatoes, let them cool slightly, and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess.

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are an excellent choice when you need a delicious side dish with minimal active cooking time. They are perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight meals when you want a comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a wide variety of dishes. Their creamy texture and rich flavor make them a perfect side dish for both casual family meals and more formal gatherings. Here are some delicious ways to serve them:

Classic Main Course Pairings:

• Roasted or Grilled Meats:
  • Roast Chicken or Turkey: Mashed potatoes are a quintessential pairing for roasted poultry. The creamy potatoes complement the savory, juicy meat perfectly.
  • Beef Roast or Pot Roast: The rich gravy from a beef or pot roast is divine when spooned over a bed of mashed potatoes.
  • Grilled Steak or Pork Chops: Mashed potatoes provide a comforting and satisfying side to grilled meats, balancing the smoky flavors.
  • Meatloaf: A classic comfort food combination – meatloaf and mashed potatoes are a match made in culinary heaven.
• Seafood Dishes:
  • Baked or Pan-Seared Salmon: The richness of mashed potatoes provides a lovely contrast to flaky salmon.
  • Shrimp Scampi: Serve mashed potatoes alongside shrimp scampi to soak up the delicious garlic-butter sauce.
  • Crab Cakes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a delightful accompaniment to crispy crab cakes.
• Vegetarian and Vegan Options (consider adjustments to recipe for vegan pairings):
  • Lentil Loaf or Vegetarian Meatloaf: Mashed potatoes are equally satisfying with vegetarian main courses.
  • Mushroom Wellington: The earthy flavors of mushroom wellington are enhanced by creamy mashed potatoes.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus for a balanced and comforting vegetarian meal.

Serving Styles and Garnishes:

• Classic Serving: Simply spoon generous servings of hot mashed potatoes onto plates alongside the main course.
• Elevated Presentation:
  • Piping: For a more elegant presentation, pipe the mashed potatoes onto plates using a piping bag and star tip.
  • Swirls: Create decorative swirls on top of the mashed potatoes with a spoon.
  • Individual Bowls: Serve in individual bowls or ramekins for a sophisticated touch.
• Garnish Ideas:
  • Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh chives, parsley, or dill add a pop of color and freshness.
  • Melted Butter: A pat of melted butter adds extra richness and shine.
  • Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast to the creamy potatoes.
  • Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan cheese for added cheesy flavor.
  • Crispy Bacon Bits: For a savory crunch, top with crispy bacon bits.
  • Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory caramelized onions add depth of flavor.
  • Gravy: Serve with your favorite gravy (chicken, beef, mushroom, or vegetarian) for classic mashed potatoes and gravy.
  • Green Onions: Sliced green onions add a mild oniony flavor and fresh green color.
  • Paprika: A sprinkle of paprika adds a touch of color and subtle smoky flavor.

Serving Occasions:

• Holidays: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and other holiday feasts.
• Family Dinners: A comforting and crowd-pleasing side for weeknight family meals.
• Potlucks and Gatherings: Easy to transport and always a hit at potlucks and parties.
• Special Occasions: Elegant enough to serve at dinner parties or special celebrations.

No matter how you choose to serve them, Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are sure to be a welcome addition to any meal, bringing comfort, flavor, and creamy perfection to your table.

Additional Tips for Perfect Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

To ensure your Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are absolutely perfect every time, here are five helpful tips to keep in mind:

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: While this recipe specifically calls for Yukon Gold potatoes due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor, the type of potato you choose significantly impacts the final result. Yukon Golds are excellent for mashed potatoes because they are moderately starchy, leading to a creamy, not gluey, texture. Russet potatoes, being higher in starch, will yield fluffier mashed potatoes but can become dry if overmixed. Red potatoes are lower in starch and will result in denser, waxier mashed potatoes. Experimenting with different potato varieties can help you find your personal preference, but for consistently creamy and delicious crockpot mashed potatoes, Yukon Golds are highly recommended.
2. Don’t Overcook (or Undercook) the Potatoes: The key to perfect mashed potatoes is cooking the potatoes to just the right tenderness. Overcooked potatoes can become waterlogged and mushy, while undercooked potatoes will be lumpy and difficult to mash smoothly. Check for doneness by piercing a potato chunk with a fork. It should slide in easily with minimal resistance. If using a slow cooker on low, begin checking around 6 hours; on high, start checking around 3 hours. If they’re not fork-tender, continue cooking and check again in 30-minute intervals. Using consistent size potato chunks will also help ensure even cooking throughout.
3. Warm Dairy Ingredients: For the smoothest and creamiest mashed potatoes, ensure your dairy ingredients – heavy cream, cream cheese, and butter – are warmed before adding them to the hot potatoes. Cold dairy can lower the temperature of the potatoes and may not incorporate as smoothly, potentially leading to a slightly grainy texture. Allow the cream cheese and butter to soften at room temperature before you begin. You can gently warm the heavy cream in a saucepan on the stovetop or in the microwave until it is just heated through, but not boiling. Adding warm dairy ensures a seamless and creamy emulsion with the potatoes.
4. Season Generously and Taste as You Go: Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the best flavors in mashed potatoes. Start with the recommended amount of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, but don’t be afraid to adjust to your taste. Potatoes absorb a lot of salt, so you may need to add more than you initially think. Taste the potatoes after mashing and before adding the cream and dairy, and then again after incorporating all the ingredients. Adjust the salt, pepper, and garlic powder as needed to achieve a well-balanced and flavorful result. Remember, it’s easier to add more seasoning than to remove it, so season in stages and taste frequently.
5. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing mashed potatoes, especially when using an electric mixer, can release too much starch, resulting in gluey or gummy potatoes. Mix just until the potatoes are smooth and creamy and the ingredients are fully incorporated. If using an electric mixer, start on low speed and gradually increase to medium-low. Be mindful of the texture and stop mixing as soon as the desired consistency is achieved. If you prefer a chunkier texture, opt for hand mashing with a potato masher, which gives you more control and prevents overmixing.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating consistently perfect, creamy, and flavorful Crockpot Mashed Potatoes that will impress your family and friends every time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are five frequently asked questions about making Crockpot Mashed Potatoes, along with their answers, to help you troubleshoot and perfect your recipe:

Q1: Can I make Crockpot Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

A: Yes, Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are excellent for making ahead of time. You can fully prepare the mashed potatoes and keep them warm in the crockpot on the “warm” setting for up to 2-3 hours before serving. For longer make-ahead, allow the mashed potatoes to cool slightly, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to restore their creamy consistency, as they may thicken upon refrigeration. Stir well while reheating to ensure they become smooth and creamy again.

Q2: Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

A: While Yukon Gold potatoes are highly recommended for their creamy texture, you can use other types of potatoes. Russet potatoes will yield fluffier mashed potatoes, but they can become drier and may require more liquid. Red potatoes will result in denser, waxier mashed potatoes, which some people prefer. If using Russets, consider adding a bit more heavy cream or broth to compensate for their drier texture. Avoid using waxy potatoes like fingerling or new potatoes, as they are not ideal for mashing. Ultimately, Yukon Golds provide the best balance of creamy texture and buttery flavor for this recipe.

Q3: Can I make Crockpot Mashed Potatoes without cream cheese?

A: Yes, you can make Crockpot Mashed Potatoes without cream cheese. While cream cheese contributes significantly to the creamy texture and subtle tang, you can omit it if you don’t have it on hand or prefer to reduce the richness. To compensate for the creaminess, you can increase the amount of heavy cream or butter slightly. You could also add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a touch of tanginess, although it will have a different flavor profile than cream cheese. The mashed potatoes will still be delicious, just slightly less rich and tangy without the cream cheese.

Q4: Can I add other flavors to my Crockpot Mashed Potatoes?

A: Absolutely! Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are a fantastic base for adding various flavors. Some popular additions include:

• Roasted Garlic: Roast a head of garlic and mash the cloves into the potatoes for a rich, mellow garlic flavor.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives can be added for a more complex flavor profile. Stir them in at the end of cooking.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyere cheese can be added for cheesy mashed potatoes. Stir in the cheese while mashing until melted and combined.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon bits can be stirred into the mashed potatoes or used as a topping for a savory twist.
• Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory caramelized onions add depth of flavor and sweetness.
• Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or white pepper can add warmth and subtle spice.

Feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations to create your own signature Crockpot Mashed Potatoes.

Q5: My mashed potatoes are too thick/thin. How can I fix them?

A: If your mashed potatoes are too thick, you can easily thin them out by adding a little more warm heavy cream, milk, or broth. Add liquid gradually, a tablespoon or two at a time, and stir well until you reach your desired consistency. If your mashed potatoes are too thin, it’s a bit trickier to thicken them. You can try cooking them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, to evaporate some of the excess liquid. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of instant potato flakes or cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to help thicken them. Add these thickening agents gradually and stir well to avoid lumps. However, the best approach is to start with the correct amount of liquid in the recipe and avoid adding too much initially.

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