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Creamy Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Hands-Off Side Dish

A generous serving of fluffy, creamy slow cooker mashed potatoes topped with melted butter on a white plate.

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Make the creamiest mashed potatoes without using your stovetop. This easy slow cooker mashed potatoes recipe is perfect for holidays or busy weeknights, allowing you to free up oven space while creating a rich, buttery side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes into the basin of your slow cooker.
  2. Pour the chicken broth or water over the potatoes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours, or on HIGH for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the potatoes are very tender.
  4. Drain off any excess liquid remaining in the slow cooker.
  5. Add the heavy cream, butter pieces, cream cheese cubes, and garlic powder to the potatoes.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for another 20 to 30 minutes, or until the butter and cream cheese are fully melted.
  7. Use a potato masher or an electric hand mixer to mash the potatoes directly in the slow cooker until they reach your desired consistency. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed. Serve directly from the slow cooker to keep them warm.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute sour cream for half of the heavy cream.
  • If you prefer garlic mashed potatoes slow cooker style, add 2 minced cloves of garlic along with the broth in step 2.
  • You can make these ahead; keep them on the ‘Keep Warm’ setting for up to 2 hours before serving.
  • If the potatoes become too thick while holding, stir in a splash of warm milk or cream.

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