Creamy Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Recipe

These ultra-rich, ultra-creamy crockpot mashed potatoes are a perfect crowd-pleasing holiday side. Made in the slow cooker with just a handful of ingredients, this recipe frees up your oven and stovetop while delivering classic, comforting flavor.

Creamy, dreamy, and savory—what more could you want from mashed potatoes? This slow cooker method uses seven simple ingredients to produce a rich texture and buttery flavor without the fuss of boiling or babysitting a pot on the stove. It’s ideal for holidays or any time you need a large batch of reliable, delicious mashed potatoes.

Why we love this crockpot mashed potatoes method: it’s easy to prepare, requires minimal hands-on time, and yields consistent, spoonable potatoes that travel well from slow cooker to serving bowl. The use of cream cheese and Greek yogurt (or sour cream) gives the potatoes a smooth, velvety finish and a slight tang that balances the richness.

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“First time making crockpot mashed potatoes and they were amazing!!! A definite crowd pleaser and so easy to make!” — Monica

What is in crockpot mashed potatoes?

This slow cooker mashed potatoes recipe comes together with seven basic ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. You’ll need:

• Yukon Gold potatoes
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper
• Cream cheese
• Butter
• Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Garlic powder

What kind of potatoes should I use?

Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture when mashed. They hold together well and don’t need as much added dairy to achieve a silky consistency. Russets, red potatoes, or Idaho potatoes will also work if that’s what you have on hand, but results will vary slightly in texture.

Variations and swaps

This is a classic, creamy version, but you can customize it easily:

1. Potato choice: Use Russets for fluffier mashed potatoes, or red potatoes if you prefer a chunkier, skinnier texture.
2. Dairy swap: Greek yogurt gives tang and body with fewer calories; sour cream offers a richer, tangier finish.
3. Toppings: Finish with extra butter, chopped chives, shredded cheddar or parmesan, or crispy bacon for more richness and texture.
4. Vegan option: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and use vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, and a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

Recipe: Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients (serves about 16)

• 6 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, rinsed and chopped into 1-inch pieces*
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 4 oz cream cheese, cut into pieces
• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 cup 2% Greek yogurt (or sour cream)

Optional toppings

• Fresh thyme or sage
• Additional salted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley

Instructions

1. Lightly spray the slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Add the chopped potatoes, broth, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Place the cream cheese pieces and butter on top of the potatoes.
4. Cover and cook on low for about 5 hours, stirring occasionally. The potatoes are done when they’re fork-tender and begin to break apart.
5. Uncover and stir the mixture, then add the Greek yogurt or sour cream. Mix until everything is combined.
6. Use a hand mixer, immersion blender, or potato masher to mash to your desired consistency—smooth or slightly chunky. Avoid overmixing, which can make potatoes gluey.
7. Serve immediately and garnish with butter, fresh herbs, chives, or cracked pepper.

*If you prefer peeled potatoes, peel before chopping. Keeping the skin on adds texture and nutrients; just be sure to wash them well.

FAQ

Storing and reheating

Allow mashed potatoes to cool, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the slow cooker on high or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth to loosen the texture as needed. Freezing is not recommended; potatoes often turn grainy after freezing and thawing.

Serving suggestions

These crockpot mashed potatoes pair beautifully with roasted or smoked turkey, pork roast, pot roast, or any hearty main. Complement the meal with sides such as green beans, stuffing, mac and cheese, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a sweet potato casserole. For parties, consider creating a mashed potato bar with multiple toppings so guests can personalize their bowls.

Tips & notes

• Even cooking: Cut potato pieces to the same approximate size for uniform doneness.
• Don’t overmix: Overworking cooked potatoes can make them gummy; mash just until you reach the texture you like.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and add salt, pepper, or extra butter as needed.
• Make ahead: You can cook earlier in the day and keep warm in the slow cooker until serving.