Easy Cheesy Crockpot Mashed Potatoes for Any Occasion

ByWendy Carter
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Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, but let’s be real—peeling, boiling, and mashing them is a chore.

Enter Cheesy Crockpot Mashed Potatoes: the lazy cook’s hack for creamy, dreamy spuds without the effort. Throw everything in, let the slow cooker work its magic, and come back to a side dish that’ll steal the show.

No babysitting, no last-minute panic, just cheesy, buttery perfection. Who knew laziness could taste this good?

Why This Recipe Slaps

First, it’s hands-off. No standing over a pot of boiling water or worrying about timing.

Second, the slow cooker melds the flavors into something ridiculously creamy and rich. The cheese melts into the potatoes like they’re in a cozy blanket, and the garlic? Oh, it’s there—subtle but sneaky.

Plus, it scales effortlessly for crowds. Game day, Thanksgiving, or a random Tuesday? Covered.

Easy Cheesy Crockpot Mashed Potatoes for Any Occasion
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Easy Cheesy Crockpot Mashed Potatoes for Any Occasion

Recipe by Wendy CarterCourse: Side Dish
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

4

hours 
Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder if you’re lazy)

  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 1/2 cup sour cream

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan

  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for flair)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Prep the potatoes: Peel and cube them into 1-inch pieces. Smaller pieces = faster cooking. Pro tip: Don’t skip peeling unless you enjoy lumpy mashed potatoes (weirdo).
  • Layer the goods: Toss potatoes, garlic, broth, cream, sour cream, butter, salt, and pepper into the crockpot. Stir lightly—just enough to mix.
  • Cook it low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. Stir once halfway if you’re feeling fancy (or forget, it’s fine).
  • Mash and cheese: Once potatoes are fork-tender, mash them to your preferred consistency. Fold in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and gooey.
  • Garnish and serve: Top with green onions if you’re into aesthetics. Or just eat it straight from the pot—we won’t judge.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk to revive the creaminess. Freezing? IMO, mashed potatoes get grainy after thawing, but if you’re desperate, freeze for up to 1 month and reheat gently.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s foolproof, customizable, and frees up stove space for other dishes (looking at you, Thanksgiving cooks).

The cheese adds protein, and the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—even picky eaters won’t complain when cheese is involved.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbs: 25g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 2g

FYI, this isn’t health food—it’s comfort food. Live a little.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcrowding the crockpot: If doubling the recipe, use a larger crockpot or cook in batches.
  • Underseasoning: Taste before serving!

    Potatoes are flavor sponges.

  • Using pre-shredded cheese: It contains anti-caking agents and won’t melt as smoothly. Grating your own is worth it.

Alternatives

  • Dairy-free: Swap butter for vegan butter, cream for coconut cream, and cheese for nutritional yeast.
  • Extra tang: Use cream cheese instead of sour cream.
  • Spicy kick: Add a dash of cayenne or diced jalapeños.

FAQs

Can I use red potatoes instead of russets?

Sure, but russets are starchier and yield a fluffier texture. Red potatoes are waxier and will give you a denser mash.

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Why is my mash watery?

You might’ve added too much broth or cream. Fix it by cooking uncovered for 15–20 minutes to evaporate excess liquid, or mash in a sprinkle of instant potato flakes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Cook as directed, then keep on warm for up to 2 hours.

Stir in a splash of cream before serving to refresh the texture.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it side dish. Minimal effort, maximum reward.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers every time.

Now go forth and embrace the lazy gourmet life—you’ve earned it.

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