Introduction
Crockpot mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or simply as a cozy side dish. The beauty of making mashed potatoes in a slow cooker lies in the convenience it offers—no need to stand over the stove mashing and mixing. Instead, you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on other dishes. In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple recipe that yields creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes with minimal effort.
Ingredients
To make delicious crockpot mashed potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 pounds of russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth (adjust based on your preferred consistency)
- 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into evenly sized cubes. This ensures they cook evenly.
- Combine Ingredients: In your crockpot, add the cubed potatoes along with the chicken or vegetable broth. If you’re using garlic powder, add it now for an extra layer of flavor. Season with a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for about 6-7 hours. The potatoes should be tender and easily pierced with a fork when they’re done.
- Mash and Mix: Once the cooking time is up, use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. For extra creaminess, add the butter and milk (or cream) gradually, mixing until smooth and fluffy. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. If desired, sprinkle with fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Conclusion
Crockpot mashed potatoes are not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With the slow cooker doing most of the work, you can enjoy creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes without the hassle. Whether you’re serving them alongside a holiday roast or a weeknight dinner, these mashed potatoes are sure to be a hit. So, grab your crockpot and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
