Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate in comfort food convenience, offering a hands-off approach to preparing this classic side dish. By cooking the potatoes low and slow, you achieve a wonderfully creamy texture with minimal effort. These mashed potatoes are rich, buttery, and perfectly seasoned, making them an ideal accompaniment to any main course. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this recipe ensures you have more time to focus on other dishes while still serving up delicious, homemade mashed potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
• ½ to 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream, warmed
• Fresh chives or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the potatoes: Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in the slow cooker. Add the chicken or vegetable broth, butter, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the potatoes: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-7 hours, until the potatoes are very tender and easily pierced with a fork.
3. Mash the potatoes: Once the potatoes are fully cooked, use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash them directly in the slow cooker. Add the sour cream or cream cheese, if using, and gradually stir in the warmed milk or heavy cream until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve: Keep the mashed potatoes warm in the slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting until ready to serve. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley before serving.

These Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes are a game-changer for busy cooks, delivering creamy, delicious potatoes without the hassle of boiling and draining. Perfect for any meal, they are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!