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Creamy Crockpot Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes: Easy Kid-Approved Recipe

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These creamy, buttery crockpot mashed potatoes are the ultimate hands-off Thanksgiving side dish. Made with simple ingredients and cooked low and slow, they stay warm for hours and are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), cut into chunks
  • 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
  • ½ cup sour cream (optional but recommended)
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the potatoes: Peel all 5 pounds of russet potatoes and cut them into quarters (about 2 inches across). Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water to prevent browning and remove excess starch.
  2. Butter the crockpot: Rub the inside of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker with 1 tablespoon of softened butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
  3. Layer the potatoes: Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Place the potato quarters in the slow cooker in an even layer.
  4. Add the fat and seasonings: Dot the potatoes with the butter chunks, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Pour the milk or cream over the top. Do not stir.
  5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2.5-3 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  6. Mash: Turn off the slow cooker (or set to warm). Mash the potatoes right in the crockpot using a potato masher or hand mixer on low speed until desired consistency is reached.
  7. Stir in extras: Fold in the sour cream and/or cream cheese (if using) until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  8. Keep warm: Set the crockpot to ‘warm’ and hold for up to 2 hours. If the potatoes dry out, stir in a splash of warm milk or cream before serving.

Notes

For best results, use russet potatoes and cut uniform pieces. Avoid opening the lid during cooking. Let dairy come to room temperature before adding. Do not overmash to prevent gluey texture. Potatoes can be made ahead and reheated.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot mashed potatoes, Thanksgiving mashed potatoes, slow cooker mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, easy mashed potatoes, holiday side dish

Find it online: https://sparklespoon.com/creamy-crockpot-thanksgiving-mashed-potatoes-easy-kid-approved-recipe/