Name: Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 5 pounds russet potatoes (peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces); 1.5 cups milk; Salt (to taste); 1 cup butter ((2 sticks)); 0.5 cups sour cream; fresh chives (for serving, optional)

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes, especially when it comes to celebrating special occasions. Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes have become a staple in my home, particularly during the holidays. I remember the first time I made them for Thanksgiving; the aroma filled the kitchen, sparking excitement in everyone who walked through the door. Friends and family gathered around the table, eagerly waiting to dig into the fluffy, buttery goodness. It quickly became a tradition, and now, I can’t imagine a holiday without them.

What I love most about this dish is its simplicity and how effortlessly it can accommodate large gatherings. Preparing mashed potatoes can be a laborious task, but with a slow cooker, it becomes a breeze. You can set it and forget it! As you go about your day, the potatoes are slowly transforming into a creamy side dish that pairs beautifully with any entrée. Whenever I serve these up, I can see the joy on everyone’s faces. Trust me, no one can resist a heaping scoop of Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes on their plate!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
300 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Potato Masher

What Sets This Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes Apart

Perfect for Gatherings

There’s no denying that Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes are perfect for gatherings. Their ability to feed a crowd without much hassle makes them a go-to dish for parties, holidays, and family dinners alike.

Hands-Off Cooking

The beauty of using a slow cooker is the hands-off approach it allows. You can prepare the potatoes and set them to cook while you focus on other dishes or spend time with loved ones.

Versatile Flavor

This recipe is incredibly versatile! You can customize the flavors by adding garlic, cheese, or herbs according to your preference. It’s a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch.

Consistent Results

Slow cooking ensures that the potatoes cook evenly and absorb the creamy goodness of butter and milk. The result? Consistently smooth and fluffy mashed potatoes every time.

Comfort Food at its Best

Who can resist the allure of warm, creamy mashed potatoes? They’re the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any meal.

Easy Make-Ahead Option

If you’re looking to simplify your meal prep, these mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time. Just reheat them before serving!

What’s In This Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

When it comes to Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes, the ingredients are simple but powerful. Each component contributes to the dreaminess of the final dish. The right potatoes, combined with creamy milk and rich butter, create a delightful texture and flavor.

5 pounds russet potatoes – The star of the dish. High-starch potatoes like russets yield the fluffiest mash.
1 1/2 cups milk – Adds creaminess and helps achieve that perfect consistency.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the potatoes.
1 cup butter (2 sticks) – Rich, creamy goodness that makes the mash indulgently delicious.
1/2 cup sour cream – Adds a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the butter.
Fresh chives – Optional, but they provide a fresh taste and a pop of color when garnished.

How to Prepare Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Making Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes is as easy as can be! Just a few simple steps will lead you to creamy perfection. Let’s dive into the process.

Start by peeling and cutting the russet potatoes into 1-inch pieces. It’s important to ensure uniform size for even cooking. Place them in the bottom of your slow cooker.
Next, pour in milk over the potatoes. This will help them soften and become creamy as they cook.
Generously sprinkle with salt. I recommend using about 1 tablespoon to start, but feel free to adjust based on your taste.
Now, add both sticks of butter on top of the potatoes. This will melt and infuse the potatoes with rich flavor.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. Make sure to give it a gentle stir every hour to ensure even cooking.
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid. The potatoes should be tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes directly in the slow cooker. They might appear a little oily at first, but keep mashing until it’s a uniform consistency.
Fold in the sour cream and mix well. This will add a creamy texture and a delightful tang to the mash.
Finally, season with more salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. I suggest starting with 2 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

If you want to take your Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes to the next level, here are some useful tips to keep in mind:

Storage: After your meal, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to retain creaminess.
Freezing: You can freeze mashed potatoes! Pack them tightly in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Pairing: These mashed potatoes go wonderfully with roasted chicken or beef dishes, making them a perfect dinner companion.
Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional flavor. You can mix them in during the mashing process.
Extra Creaminess: For an even richer mash, consider adding cream cheese or additional butter!
Potato Varieties: While russets are ideal, you can mix in Yukon gold or even red potatoes for a different texture.

Pairing Suggestions for Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes, the options are endless! Here are some delightful pairings:

Roasted Turkey: A classic pairing for Thanksgiving, the creamy potatoes complement the savory turkey beautifully.
Grilled Chicken: The richness of the mashed potatoes balances the smoky flavors of grilled chicken perfectly.
Vegetable Sides: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like carrots and green beans for a colorful plate.
Holiday Gatherings: These mashed potatoes are perfect for any festive occasion, from Christmas to family reunions.
Comforting Soups: Pair them with hearty soups for a cozy meal during colder months.
Storing Leftovers: If you have extra, store them in an airtight container and enjoy them within a few days!

FAQ

Absolutely! One of the best things about Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes is that you can prepare them a day in advance. Simply follow the instructions and allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them gently in the slow cooker or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess. This makes them perfect for busy holiday gatherings!

The best potatoes for mashed potatoes are high-starch varieties like russets or Yukon gold. These types break down easily when cooked, resulting in a fluffy and smooth texture. Avoid waxy potatoes, like red or new potatoes, as they tend to become gummy when mashed. Using the right potato makes all the difference in achieving that perfect creamy consistency!

To elevate the flavor of your Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes, consider adding roasted garlic, cream cheese, or even a bit of sharp cheddar cheese. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also infuse a beautiful aroma and taste. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your personal preference. A hint of nutmeg can also add a subtle warmth!

Yes, you can freeze leftover mashed potatoes! To do this, allow them to cool completely, then pack them tightly in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat carefully in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little milk or butter if needed to restore their creamy texture. They’ll taste just as good as when you first made them!

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes recipe stands out due to its effortless preparation and irresistible creaminess. It’s a dish that brings joy to gatherings, making it a must-try. I encourage you to whip up this delicious recipe for your next family dinner or holiday celebration; you won’t be disappointed!