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Creamy Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes Recipe for Easy Crock Pot Cooking

creamy make-ahead mashed potatoes - featured image

This creamy make-ahead mashed potatoes recipe delivers smooth, luscious potatoes that stay warm and creamy in the crock pot without drying out. Perfect for busy days or entertaining, it uses simple ingredients and a slow cooker finish for effortless comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (about 1.4 kg)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (85 g)
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream (180 ml)
  • 3 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, 60 ml)

Instructions

  1. Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and cut into roughly 1.5-inch chunks.
  2. Place potatoes and smashed garlic cloves in a large pot and cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Add a pinch of salt.
  3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Drain potatoes and garlic well, then return to the pot or a large bowl.
  5. Mash potatoes while still hot using a potato masher or ricer.
  6. Stir in softened butter and warm heavy cream gradually until smooth and creamy. Add sour cream or Greek yogurt if using.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Transfer mashed potatoes to the crock pot, cover, and set to LOW to keep warm for up to 4 hours.
  9. Before serving, gently stir the potatoes to redistribute cream and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Warm the cream slightly before adding to avoid cooling the potatoes and losing creaminess. Avoid overmixing to prevent gluey texture. Keep the crock pot covered and on low to maintain moisture. If potatoes stiffen after sitting, swirl in warm cream or milk before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, crock pot mashed potatoes, make-ahead mashed potatoes, easy side dish, comfort food