If you’re looking for a dish that’s both incredibly easy to make and absolutely delicious, you’ve got to try my crockpot mashed potatoes! Seriously, there’s something magical about letting a slow cooker do the work for you while the aroma fills your kitchen. Just toss in your ingredients, and a few hours later, you’ll have creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes that are perfect for any meal. I can’t help but reminisce about family gatherings where the mashed potatoes were always the star of the show—everyone would dive in for seconds, and I’d be right there with them, smothering my helping in gravy. Trust me, once you try these crockpot mashed potatoes, they’ll become a go-to side dish in your home too!
Ingredients for Crockpot Mashed Potatoes
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving those wonderfully creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 pounds of potatoes – I usually go for russet potatoes, but Yukon Golds work beautifully too. Just peel and cube them for even cooking.
- 1 cup of chicken broth – This adds a savory depth to the flavor. You can use homemade or store-bought; either works!
- 1 cup of heavy cream – This is where the magic happens! It makes the potatoes rich and velvety. Don’t skimp on this one!
- 4 tablespoons of butter – I like to use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness, but feel free to use your favorite.
- Salt to taste – Start with a little, and you can always add more later!
- Black pepper to taste – Freshly cracked is my favorite for that extra kick!
That’s it! Simple, right? With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to a side dish that’s sure to impress.
How to Prepare Crockpot Mashed Potatoes
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the simple steps for making the best crockpot mashed potatoes ever! I promise, it’s as easy as pie, or should I say, as easy as mashed potatoes? Let’s get started!
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
First things first, you’ll want to peel your potatoes. I find that using a good vegetable peeler makes this part a breeze! Once they’re peeled, cut them into even cubes—about 1 to 2 inches should do the trick. This helps them cook uniformly, so you won’t end up with some mushy bits and some firm ones. If the potatoes are all the same size, they’ll cook perfectly together!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Grab your crockpot and toss those cubed potatoes right in. Next, pour in the chicken broth and add the butter. The broth will give the potatoes flavor as they cook, and the butter? Oh, it just makes everything richer and more delicious. Give it a little stir to make sure everything’s mixed up well before moving on to the next step!
Step 3: Cooking Time
Cover your crockpot and set it to low heat. Now, here’s the tough part—waiting! You’ll want to let those potatoes cook for about 6 to 8 hours. It’s the perfect time to kick back, relax, and maybe bake some cookies or catch up on your favorite show. You’ll know they’re ready when a fork easily pierces through the potatoes without any resistance. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be a sure sign they’re almost done!
Step 4: Mashing the Potatoes
Once your potatoes are tender (yay!), it’s time for the fun part—mashing! Just grab a potato masher and mash the potatoes right in the crockpot. It’s super easy and also means fewer dishes to wash later! I like to leave a few small chunks for texture, but if you prefer them silky smooth, go ahead and mash until your heart’s content!
Step 5: Final Touches
Now for the grand finale! Stir in that heavy cream and season your mashed potatoes with salt and pepper. This is where you can really make them your own, so taste as you go! If you want them creamier, add a little more cream, and for a bit of flair, feel free to sprinkle in some garlic powder or fresh herbs. Give it one last mix, and you’re ready to serve up these dreamy, creamy crockpot mashed potatoes!
Tips for Success with Crockpot Mashed Potatoes
Want to take your crockpot mashed potatoes from good to absolutely amazing? I’ve got you covered with some pro tips that’ll ensure you achieve that perfect creaminess and flavor every time!
- Choose the Right Potatoes: I swear by russet potatoes for that fluffy texture, but if you’re feeling adventurous, Yukon Golds bring a buttery flavor that’s hard to beat. Just remember, uniformity is key when you’re cubing them!
- Don’t Skip the Broth: The chicken broth is essential for flavor! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works wonderfully too. Just make sure it’s a good quality broth for the best taste.
- Adjust the Creaminess: Start with the heavy cream as suggested, but feel free to add more if you like it extra creamy! Sometimes I sneak in a splash of milk or even sour cream for an extra tang—yum!
- Season as You Go: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste the potatoes before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might also want to add a pinch of garlic powder or fresh herbs for that extra layer of flavor.
- Keep It Warm: If you’re making these for a gathering, keep the crockpot on the warm setting after they’re done. This way, they stay nice and toasty until it’s time to dig in!
- Make Ahead: These mashed potatoes are great for meal prep! You can prepare them a day in advance and simply reheat them gently on the stove or in the crockpot before serving. Just add a little more cream or broth to loosen them up!
With these tips, your crockpot mashed potatoes will not only be a hit but also a comforting staple in your home. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Variations for Crockpot Mashed Potatoes
Now, let’s talk about how to jazz up those delicious crockpot mashed potatoes to make them even more irresistible! The beauty of this dish is that it’s so versatile—you can easily tailor it to your taste or the occasion. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes: For a savory twist, try using garlic butter instead of regular butter. Just melt it down and mix it in with the potatoes for a rich, aromatic flavor. You can even add a few minced garlic cloves to the crockpot for that extra punch!
- Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Who doesn’t love cheese? Stir in your favorite shredded cheese—cheddar, parmesan, or even a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess—right before serving. The melted cheese adds a delightful, gooey texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
- Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or rosemary can elevate your mashed potatoes to a whole new level. Just chop them up and fold them in right after mashing. They add a burst of freshness and color that’s simply beautiful!
- Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Take a cue from loaded baked potatoes! Mix in crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and green onions for a fun and hearty side dish. It’s like a party in your mouth!
- Spicy Mashed Potatoes: If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. It’ll give your mashed potatoes a kick that’s sure to impress spicy food lovers!
- Sweet Potato Mash: For a twist on the classic, swap half of the regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. This adds a lovely sweetness and a beautiful orange color to your dish. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients!
With these variations, the possibilities are endless! Feel free to get creative and mix and match to find your favorite combination. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s what you can expect in terms of nutrition for one serving (about 1 cup) of these delicious crockpot mashed potatoes. They’re creamy and comforting while still being fairly balanced:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 4g
These numbers can vary a bit depending on the specific ingredients you use, especially if you go for different types of broth or add extra toppings. But overall, you’re getting a tasty side dish that’s hearty and satisfying without being over the top. Enjoy your creamy bowl of goodness!
FAQ About Crockpot Mashed Potatoes
Got questions about making the perfect crockpot mashed potatoes? You’re not alone! Here are some of the most common questions I get, along with my answers to help you along the way.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While I love using russet potatoes for their fluffy texture, Yukon Golds work great too. They add a lovely buttery flavor. Just make sure to cube them evenly for consistent cooking!
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No worries! You can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or even just use water if you’re in a pinch. Just remember, broth adds a lot of flavor, so the more flavorful the liquid, the tastier your mashed potatoes will be!
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare your mashed potatoes, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove or in the crockpot, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen them up again if needed!
How do I know when the potatoes are done cooking?
Your potatoes are done when they’re fork-tender, meaning a fork can easily pierce through without much resistance. If they’re still firm, give them a little more time—patience is key!
Can I freeze leftover mashed potatoes?
You can, but keep in mind that the texture may change a bit after freezing. To freeze, let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently, adding a bit of cream or broth to revive their creamy goodness!
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Oh, the options are endless! Consider adding garlic butter, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley. You can even toss in some cooked bacon bits for extra flavor! Just remember to taste as you go, and adjust the seasoning to your liking!
Why are my mashed potatoes gluey?
Gluey potatoes can happen if they’re over-mashed or if you’ve used the wrong type of potato. Stick to russets or Yukon Golds, and mash just until creamy. If you notice they’re getting too sticky, stop mashing and let them be!
Hopefully, these FAQs help clear up any uncertainties you might have. Enjoy your cooking adventure with these delightful crockpot mashed potatoes! They’re going to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the magic while you go about your day. Less time in the kitchen means more time for you!
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: With the combination of heavy cream and butter, these mashed potatoes are irresistibly rich and comforting—perfect for any occasion!
- Versatile Side Dish: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, these crockpot mashed potatoes fit right in. You can pair them with just about anything!
- Customizable: Want to switch things up? Add garlic, cheese, or fresh herbs to create a flavor profile that suits your taste. The options are endless!
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, and you’ll have a delicious side ready to go for busy weeknights or potlucks!
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love mashed potatoes, and this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. They’re creamy, flavorful, and downright delightful!
- Time-Saving: With a cooking time of 6-8 hours, you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days or entertaining guests without the stress!
Crockpot Mashed Potatoes: 5 Secrets for Creamy Perfection
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy and flavorful crockpot mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds of potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the cubed potatoes in the crockpot.
- Add chicken broth and butter.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until potatoes are tender.
- Once cooked, mash the potatoes in the crockpot.
- Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use garlic butter.
- Try adding cheese for a cheesy variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: crockpot mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, slow cooker potatoes
