This recipe for Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes takes the guesswork out of cooking, for a result that’s both deeply flavorful and deceptively simple to make.
You’ve probably heard the phrase “work smarter, not harder.” It’s a mantra that I’ve been trying to implement into my own life, because why complicate things when you don’t have to? Of course, when looking for shortcuts in any area of life, there’s always the risk of downsides. Quick fixes can often result in long-term problems, and trying to skip steps for the sake of convenience — especially in cooking — usually comes back to bite you.
But with all that being said, trust me when I tell you that shortcuts for the sake of convenience can also create some of the most incredible recipes you’ve ever tasted. All you need is a simple slow cooker. I know I know — there are about a million different slow cooker recipes making the rounds on social media these days (many of which you’re better off skipping if you ask me). But if you can get past the goofy viral recipes, you will be astounded how many rich, complex dishes can be made by simply throwing a bunch of ingredients into a crock-pot and letting time do its work. From elegant sauces to hearty pot roasts to subtle vegetable dishes, the slow cooker has the magical ability to make even the most simple meals transform into gourmet creations.
Even simple dishes, like mashed potatoes, benefit from the slow cooker treatment. That’s why I promise you I am not lying when I say that this recipe for slow cooker mashed potatoes is incredibly easy with zero downsides. Simply toss your ingredients into a crock-pot, let them cook for a few hours, and you’ve got some of the richest, most layered, deeply complex mashed potatoes I’ve ever tasted.
Can I Use Any Type of Potato?
I recommend using red potatoes for this recipe, but if you’ve got a different type of potatoes sitting in your cupboard, you won’t run into any trouble using them for this dish. As a general rule, the best potatoes for mashed potatoes are the more starchy varieties like russet, Idaho, or Yukon Gold, because they result in a more fluffy, airy texture. Red potatoes, on the other hand, tend to result in a more creamy dish, which I prefer myself. Really it’s up to you, though, so feel free to experiment with different varieties.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds red potatoes, cut into 2-inch pieces (skins optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray. Place the chopped potatoes inside.
Step 2: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 5-6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 3: Once the potatoes are tender, add the sour cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Using a hand mixer or a potato masher, blend or mash the potatoes with the added ingredients until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
FAQs & Tips
How to Make Ahead and Store
Mashed potatoes are perfect for storing as leftovers, as they heat up well and tend to have deeper flavors over time. Keep them covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, toss a little bit of butter or cream in when reheating, to ensure it remains creamy and delicious on second helpings.
Can I Add Seasoning?
Of course! Think of mashed potatoes as a blank canvas, ready to be colored with whatever varieties of flavor you prefer. I tend to enjoy fresh rosemary in my mashed potatoes, but other great options include parsley, basil, or shallots.
Should I Use Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt?
It really depends on what you prefer. Sour cream will result in a richer, more creamy texture, while Greek yogurt tends to impart a slight tanginess. On the other hand, Greek yogurt is healthier, with fewer calories and less fat, if you want a more nutritious option. Either way, you’ll end up with a great result no matter which option you go for.
Serving Suggestions
Mashed potatoes are often treated as the go-to side dish for any large gathering, and this recipe is perfect for just such an occasion. Serve in a giant bowl and let your friends and family dollop out some potatoes for themselves (bonus points if you make a gravy or sauce to pour on top). But if you’re eating solo, this dish makes for a perfect meal prep. Simply portion out your mashed potatoes for the next few days, and pair with a protein (such as this Garlic Butter Baked Chicken) or some fresh veggies (such as Grilled Asparagus), resulting in a well-balanced and delicious meal.
Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 2 pounds red potatoes cut into 2-inch pieces (skins optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray. Place the chopped potatoes inside.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 5-6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Once the potatoes are tender, add the sour cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker.
- Using a hand mixer or a potato masher, blend or mash the potatoes with the added ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
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