Perfect Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery, and packed with flavor, these mashed potatoes are made entirely in the slow cooker—no draining, no juggling pots on the stove, and no last-minute stress. They stay warm and ready to serve when you are, making them the ideal make-ahead side dish for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners.
Servings: 10 servings
Calories: 359kcal
Cost: $8
Equipment
- Slow cooker (5-7 quarts recommended)
- Potato masher or electric hand mixer
Ingredients
- 5 pounds Yukon Gold diced (no need to peel)
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon salt plus more to taste
- 1¼ teaspoons garlic powder optional
- ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1⅓ cups whole milk warmed (or half-and-half for extra richness)
Instructions
- Add diced potatoes, water, and butter to your slow cooker.
- Sprinkle in salt, garlic powder (if using), and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on High for 4 hours, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Use a masher or electric hand mixer to mash the potatoes to your preferred texture.
- Slowly stir in the warmed milk, a little at a time, until your mashed potatoes are perfectly creamy.
- Switch the slow cooker to Low or Keep Warm. Give them a stir before serving and garnish if you like (chives, extra butter, or a sprinkle of paprika).
Notes
Potato choice matters: Yukon Gold hold their shape and give the best creamy-yet-hearty texture. Russets will work in a pinch, but they may be a bit fluffier.
Add-ins welcome: Stir in a scoop of cream cheese, a splash of sour cream, or a few roasted garlic cloves for extra richness.
Make-ahead magic: These can stay warm in the slow cooker for 2–3 hours. Just give them a stir and a splash of milk before serving to refresh the texture.
Leftovers? Freeze in airtight containers, then thaw and reheat with a splash of milk on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutrition
Calories: 359kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 53mg | Sodium: 728mg | Potassium: 1016mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 625IU | Vitamin C: 45mg | Calcium: 75mg | Iron: 2mg
