Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for busy cooks who want creamy, buttery perfection without the effort. This hands-off slow cooker method saves precious time while delivering that rich, velvety texture you love in mashed potatoes. Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a weeknight meal, there’s no peeling, boiling, or babysitting here—just set it and forget it.

I stumbled on this slow cooker hack one hectic Thanksgiving, and I’ll never go back to the traditional stovetop method. Instead of juggling pots and timers, I let my crockpot do its thing while I handled the turkey and sides. The result? Creamy million dollar mashed potatoes that tasted like I spent hours in the kitchen. Spoiler alert: I didn’t.

Why This Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Is a Game-Changer

Hands-off cooking: No boiling or constant stirring—your crockpot handles it all.
Perfect texture: Slow cooking in broth gives the potatoes extra flavor and keeps them tender.
Time-saving: Prep takes just 15 minutes, and then you can walk away for up to 4 hours.
Fewer dishes: Everything happens in one pot—no need for a separate bowl or mixer.
Customizable comfort: Add toppings or adjust seasonings to make it your own.

Equipment You’ll Need for This Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Let’s keep it simple. Here’s what you’ll need to make these easy slow cooker mashed potatoes:

6-quart crockpot: Perfect size for 5 pounds of potatoes. Make sure it has a “warm” setting to keep them perfect until serving.
Potato masher: For that rustic hand-mashed texture. Swap for a hand mixer if you prefer ultra-smooth potatoes.
Knife and cutting board: For peeling and chopping your potatoes. Feel free to use pre-peeled ones to save even more time.

Simple Ingredients for Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

This best crock pot potato recipe uses pantry staples to create creamy, indulgent mashed potatoes without the stress. Here’s what you’ll need:

Russet potatoes: Their fluffy texture makes them ideal for mashing. Yukon Golds work too for a smoother, creamier result.
Chicken broth: Adds flavor while cooking and keeps the potatoes moist. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Butter: Salted butter brings richness and silky texture—don’t skimp on this!
Cream cheese: The secret to that “million dollar” creaminess.

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Recipe Details

Servings: 10
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Ingredients

5 pounds russet potatoes
½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, cut into cubes
32-ounce carton chicken broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, cut into cubes
8-ounce package cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
¼ cup milk (or more, to taste)

How to Make Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Peel and cut 5 pounds of russet potatoes into 1-inch chunks.
Place the potato chunks in the bottom of your 6-quart crockpot.
Add ½ cup (1 stick) of butter, cut into cubes, evenly over the potatoes.
Pour the chicken broth on top of the potatoes.
Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hours. The potatoes are ready when they are fork-tender.
Carefully drain and discard the excess broth.
Add the remaining ½ cup butter, cream cheese, and ¼ cup milk to the potatoes.
Mash the potatoes until smooth (or leave slightly lumpy, if preferred).
Taste and season with salt and pepper. Add extra milk if you prefer a thinner consistency.
Set the crockpot to “warm” to keep the potatoes hot until you’re ready to serve.

Jake’s Tips for the Best Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Use russet potatoes: Their high starch content gives the fluffiest results.
Don’t overmix: Over-mashing can make the potatoes gluey. Stop as soon as they’re smooth.
Make them ahead: Prep the potatoes and butter in advance—just assemble and cook when ready.
Freeze leftovers: Store in a freezer-safe container and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Avoid watery potatoes: Make sure to drain all the broth before mashing.

Easy Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Variations

Loaded mashed potatoes: Add bacon bits, cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
Garlic mashed potatoes: Mix in roasted garlic or a teaspoon of garlic powder.
Cauliflower mash blend: Swap out half the potatoes for cauliflower for a lighter version.
Herbed twist: Stir in fresh chives, parsley, or thyme before serving.

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes FAQs

Can I use Yukon Gold potatoes instead?

Absolutely! Yukon Golds create creamier mashed potatoes, but they’ll still work perfectly in this buttery mashed potatoes in crock pot recipe.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat creamy million dollar mashed potatoes in the crockpot on low, adding a splash of milk to keep them moist. Microwave works too for smaller portions.

Can I double this recipe?

This recipe is ideal for doubling if you have an 8-quart crockpot. Just adjust the cook time by adding an extra 30-60 minutes.

What’s the best way to prevent lumps?

Make sure potatoes are fork-tender before mashing. Lumps often happen if the potatoes are undercooked.

These Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are going to be your new secret weapon for stress-free cooking. What’s your favorite kitchen shortcut? Share it below—I’m always looking for new tips!