Discover how to make ahead crockpot mashed potatoes that are creamy and perfect for any meal. Easy slow cooker recipe that frees up your time.
Make Ahead Crockpot Mashed Potatoes
If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy side dish that you can prepare ahead of time, make ahead crockpot mashed potatoes are the perfect solution. These mashed potatoes slow-cooked in a crockpot come out silky smooth and packed with flavor, making them a great addition to any weeknight dinner or holiday meal. The best part? You can prep everything in the morning and let the crockpot do the work while you go about your day.
This technique frees up stovetop space for other dishes and ensures you always have warm mashed potatoes ready to serve. Whether you like your potatoes simple or dressed up with herbs and extras, this recipe is flexible and easy to customize.
Why You’ll Love It
- Hands-off cooking: Set it and forget it convenience.
- Creamy texture: Slow cooking yields soft potatoes that mash perfectly.
- Make ahead ready: Prep in advance for stress-free entertaining or meal prep.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins or keep it classic.
- Vegetarian: Great for vegetarian mains and sides.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered (Russets can be used too)
- 1 cup whole milk (substitute almond milk or oat milk for dairy-free)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed (swap with vegan butter if desired)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (plain Greek yogurt works well for tang)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives, chopped (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place peeled and quartered potatoes into the crockpot. This helps them cook evenly and absorb flavors.
- Add the cubed butter, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper right on top of the potatoes.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for about 4 hours, or until potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Once cooked, use a potato masher or an electric hand mixer to mash the potatoes directly in the crockpot until creamy and smooth.
- Stir in the sour cream for extra creaminess and a slight tang.
- Optional: sprinkle chopped fresh chives on top for color and fresh flavor before serving.
For more slow cooker recipes, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners collection or explore tips from Food Network.
Expert Tips
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a naturally creamy texture, but Russet potatoes work well too if you want fluffier mashed potatoes.
- Make sure not to overcook the potatoes to avoid mushy texture; they should be fork-tender but not falling apart.
- If your mashed potatoes seem thick, add additional warm milk or broth to adjust the consistency.
- This recipe is perfect for making ahead – keep warm in the crockpot on the “warm” setting until ready to serve.
- For garlic lovers, add a few cloves of minced garlic at the start of cooking for a richer flavor.
Storage
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave, adding milk as needed to restore creaminess.
Variations
- Vegan: Use plant-based milk and vegan butter. Replace sour cream with vegan yogurt or coconut cream.
- Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Dairy-free: Swap milk and butter with dairy-free alternatives and omit sour cream or replace with coconut yogurt.
- Herb-infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme while cooking for an aromatic twist.
- Cheesy: Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan after mashing for extra richness.
FAQ
- Can I make ahead crockpot mashed potatoes before a party?
- Yes! This recipe is designed for make-ahead convenience. Prepare and cook early, then keep warm until serving.
- Can I use Russet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold?
- Absolutely. Russets will yield a fluffier texture but Yukon Golds are creamier.
- How do I keep mashed potatoes from drying out in the crockpot?
- Stir in extra milk or broth and cover the crockpot tightly to maintain moisture.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
- Yes, the recipe is naturally vegetarian without any meat products.
- Can I freeze leftover mashed potatoes?
- Yes, mashed potatoes freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw slowly and reheat gently.
Call to Action
Try these make ahead crockpot mashed potatoes for your next meal and let us know how you like them! Feel free to comment below, rate the recipe, and share it with friends who love easy, delicious vegetarian mains.
