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Easy Crockpot Cream Cheese Mashed Potato Casserole

crockpot cream cheese mashed potato casserole - featured image

This Easy Crockpot Cream Cheese Mashed Potato Casserole is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it side dish. Cream cheese makes it ultra-creamy, and the slow cooker keeps it warm for hours—perfect for holidays and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional toppings: chopped chives, crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, paprika

Instructions

  1. Prep the Potatoes: Peel 3 pounds of russet potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Rinse in cold water to remove excess starch, then drain well.
  2. Layer in the Crockpot: Place the cubed potatoes in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Scatter the softened cream cheese over the top in small spoonfuls. Dot with the butter pieces. Do not stir yet.
  3. Add the Liquids: In a small bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour evenly over the potatoes. Gently stir to combine.
  4. Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender. Avoid opening the lid frequently.
  5. Mash and Stir: Turn off the slow cooker or switch to ‘warm’. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or hand mixer on low speed until desired consistency. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Add extra warm milk or broth if too thick.
  6. Keep Warm Until Serving: Leave on ‘warm’ setting for up to 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to prevent a skin from forming.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature cream cheese and warm the milk. Avoid over-mashing to prevent gluey texture. This casserole can be made a day ahead and reheated. For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot mashed potatoes, cream cheese mashed potatoes, slow cooker mashed potatoes, easy mashed potato casserole, holiday side dish, make-ahead mashed potatoes