The Best Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

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Ever crave mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth without the stovetop chaos? Crockpot mashed potatoes are your answer. Creamy, fluffy, buttery, and made almost entirely hands-free, they let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you focus on your main dish—or simply relax.

These mashed potatoes aren’t just convenient, they’re decadent. With the right combination of russet potatoes, garlic, butter, and cream, they develop a rich flavor and silky texture that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just want a comforting weeknight side, this crockpot version checks all the boxes.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the best Crockpot Mashed Potatoes, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Crockpot (Slow Cooker): The heart of this recipe. It gently cooks the potatoes until tender without boiling over or needing babysitting. A 6-quart model works best for larger batches.
• Potato Masher or Hand Mixer: For mashing to your desired level of creaminess. Mashers give you more control, while mixers can deliver super-smooth results quickly.
• Peeler: Essential for prepping russet potatoes, which have thicker skins.
• Knife and Cutting Board: To cut the potatoes into even chunks, helping them cook uniformly.
• Measuring Cups/Spoons: Precise measurement ensures your potatoes have the perfect ratio of cream, butter, and seasoning.

Each tool plays a role in making this recipe effortless and delicious. The slow cooker provides the hands-off cooking method, while the right mashing tool determines the final texture of your potatoes.

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Ingredients for the Best Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

• Russet Potatoes: These are starchy and ideal for mashing, creating that classic fluffy texture.
• Garlic Cloves: Added during cooking, garlic infuses the potatoes with a mellow, savory flavor.
• Butter: Provides richness and depth. Use real butter for the best flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Delivers a silky, creamy texture. You can also use half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Cream Cheese: Adds tang and ultra-creamy body to the mash. It also helps the potatoes reheat beautifully.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
• Fresh Chives (optional): For garnish and a pop of freshness and color.

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How To Make the Best Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Peel and chop the russet potatoes into uniform chunks. This ensures even cooking and makes mashing easier later.

Step 2: Load the Crockpot

Add the chopped potatoes and whole garlic cloves to your slow cooker. Pour in water just to cover the potatoes, and season with salt. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours, until fork-tender.

Step 3: Drain and Mash

Once the potatoes are fully tender, drain any excess water from the slow cooker. Add in butter, cream, and cream cheese. Use a potato masher for a rustic texture or a hand mixer for a smoother mash.

Step 4: Season and Adjust

Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper. If needed, add a splash more cream to loosen the texture.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Top with a pat of butter and chopped chives, if using. Serve immediately or keep warm in the crockpot on the “warm” setting.

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Serving and Storing Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes are best served hot and fresh out of the crockpot, but they’re incredibly forgiving and perfect for make-ahead meals too. If you’re serving a crowd, keep them warm directly in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting with the lid on. Give them a stir and add a splash of cream before serving if they seem too thick.

For storing, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little cream or butter to revive the texture. They freeze well too—just portion into freezer-safe bags and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make these mashed potatoes?

You can make them up to 2 days ahead. Store in the fridge and reheat with a little cream or butter stirred in to bring back the creamy consistency.

Can I use Yukon Gold potatoes instead of russet?

Yes! Yukon Golds will give a slightly richer and more buttery flavor, but the texture will be a bit denser compared to russets.

How can I make these dairy-free?

Swap butter for a plant-based alternative, and use canned coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream. Skip the cream cheese or use a dairy-free version.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

For the smoothest mash, peeling is recommended. But if you like a more rustic texture and are using thin-skinned Yukon Golds, you can skip peeling.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure your crockpot is large enough (at least 8 quarts) to hold all the potatoes.

Can I keep the mashed potatoes in the slow cooker overnight?

It’s not recommended for food safety. Store them in the refrigerator once they cool, then reheat before serving.

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Want More Comfort Food Side Dish Ideas?

You might also love the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, which layers savory vegetables with creamy textures perfect for potlucks. Or dive into the Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples for a sweet and spiced addition to your comfort food table.

Looking for something potato-forward? The Air Fried Potato Wedges deliver crisp edges and fluffy centers in every bite. And the Loaded Tater Tot Appetizers bring crunch, cheese, and bacon all in one irresistible snack.

For a classic pairing with mashed potatoes, try the Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders—juicy and golden, they make a nostalgic plate.

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If you try it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go with cream cheese or skip it? Add any fresh herbs? Leave a comment below and tell me all about it.

For more comforting side dishes and easy meals, follow along on my Pinterest: LadyPlate on Pinterest

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