Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Rich and creamy crockpot mashed potatoes are the ultimate hands-off side dish! Perfect for busy weekdays, festive gatherings, or cozy family dinners, these mashed potatoes bring comfort to any meal. With minimal effort required, you can enjoy a flavorful and creamy side that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you focus on other tasks.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese and heavy whipping cream guarantees a rich, velvety finish that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holidays, barbecues, or everyday dinners—these mashed potatoes complement any main course beautifully.
• Easily Scalable: This recipe serves 12 but can be adjusted based on your needs, making it ideal for large gatherings or smaller meals.
• Customizable Garnishes: Top with fresh herbs or extra butter to add your personal touch and enhance the flavor profile.

Tools and Preparation

To make these amazing crockpot mashed potatoes, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will streamline the process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Crockpot
• Potato masher or electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Crockpot: This handy appliance allows for slow cooking, ensuring your potatoes become perfectly tender without constant supervision.
• Potato masher or electric mixer: Achieve the desired smoothness in your mashed potatoes with ease using either of these tools.
• Measuring cups: Precise measurements help maintain consistency in flavor and texture throughout the dish.

Ingredients

Rich and creamy crockpot mashed potatoes are the ultimate hands-off side dish! They’re perfect for busy days or holiday feasts!

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 5 pounds cubed Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled, washed, and cut into chunks)
• 1 cup salted butter (divided)
• 32 ounces chicken broth
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened, regular or 1/3-less fat)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Garnish Options

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Sliced chives
• Pats of butter

How to Make Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Place the peeled and cut russet potatoes into a crockpot. Ensure they are evenly distributed for even cooking.

Step 2: Add Broth and Butter

Pour chicken broth over the potatoes and add half of the cubed butter. This will infuse flavor while they cook.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Cover the crockpot and cook on high heat for 3-4 hours, or on low heat for 6-7 hours. The potatoes should be tender enough to mash easily with a fork when done.

Step 4: Drain Excess Broth

Once cooked, carefully drain any excess broth from the crockpot. Add in the remaining butter, softened cream cheese, and heavy whipping cream. Cover and cook on high for an additional 10 minutes to combine flavors.

Step 5: Mash Until Smooth

Add salt to taste. Using a potato masher or an electric mixer, mash the potatoes directly in the crockpot until they reach a smooth and creamy consistency.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Keep the potatoes on warm until ready to serve. Garnish with fresh chives, parsley, or additional pats of butter if desired. Enjoy your delicious crockpot mashed potatoes!

How to Serve Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Crockpot mashed potatoes are a versatile side dish that complements many meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Grilled Chicken

• Try pairing the mashed potatoes with grilled chicken breast for a delicious and healthy meal. The creamy texture of the potatoes balances well with the smoky flavor of the chicken.

As Part of a Cozy Casserole

• Layer the mashed potatoes in a casserole dish with cooked ground beef and vegetables. Bake until bubbly for a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Enhance the flavor by garnishing your crockpot mashed potatoes with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.

Served with Roasted Vegetables

• Dish up your mashed potatoes alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate. The crispy texture of the veggies contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the potatoes.

With Gravy

• Spoon some savory chicken or turkey gravy over your mashed potatoes for an extra layer of flavor. This classic pairing is always a hit during holiday feasts.

As a Filling for Shepherd’s Pie

• Use your crockpot mashed potatoes as a topping for a hearty shepherd’s pie, made with seasoned ground beef and mixed vegetables. Bake until golden brown and enjoy!

How to Perfect Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

For perfectly creamy crockpot mashed potatoes, follow these tips to ensure great results every time.

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Use Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, as they mash smoothly and have a rich texture.
• Cut Evenly: Cut potatoes into uniform chunks to ensure they cook evenly in the crockpot.
• Adjust Liquid Levels: If you prefer thicker mashed potatoes, reduce the amount of broth used; adjust according to your desired consistency.
• Mix Ingredients Well: After cooking, make sure to mix in butter, cream cheese, and heavy cream thoroughly for creamy results.
• Season Gradually: Start with less salt and add more as needed while mashing; this helps in achieving the right flavor without over-salting.
• Keep Warm Setting: Use the warm setting on your crockpot after mashing to keep them at an ideal serving temperature without overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Crockpot mashed potatoes pair beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection add a delightful crunch and freshness.
2. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory honey-glazed carrots complement the richness of the mashed potatoes beautifully.
3. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic make for an elegant yet simple side.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy potatoes.
5. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the heaviness of mashed potatoes.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings seasonal flavors that enhance any meal featuring crockpot mashed potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making crockpot mashed potatoes can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that you can easily avoid for a perfect dish.

• Skipping the peeling step: Not peeling the potatoes can lead to a gritty texture. Always peel your potatoes for smooth results.
• Ignoring potato size: Cutting potatoes into uneven sizes causes inconsistent cooking. Make sure to cut them into uniform chunks.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times vary by heat setting. Check for tenderness before mashing to ensure they are just right.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in bland potatoes. Taste and adjust salt as needed after mashing.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient broth can dry out the potatoes. Always add enough liquid to keep them creamy.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil to prevent drying out; heat until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a saucepan, stirring frequently, adding a splash of cream or broth as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Crockpot Mashed Potatoes creamy?

Adding cream cheese and heavy whipping cream during mashing makes these potatoes rich and creamy. Adjust the amounts based on your preference.

Can I use different types of potatoes for Crockpot Mashed Potatoes?

Yes! While Russet and Yukon Gold are popular choices, you can also try red or purple potatoes for unique flavors and textures.

How long do Crockpot Mashed Potatoes last?

Crockpot mashed potatoes can last up to 3-5 days in the fridge and about 2 months when frozen if stored properly.

Can I customize my Crockpot Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! You can add garlic, herbs, or cheese for extra flavor. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings!

Conclusion

Rich and creamy crockpot mashed potatoes are a delightful side dish that fits perfectly into any meal. Their hands-off cooking style makes them ideal for busy days or festive gatherings. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch!