Are you dreaming of creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes but short on time? Then get ready to say hello to your new favorite weeknight side dish: Crock Pot Instant Mashed Potatoes! This recipe takes all the guesswork and elbow grease out of making perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes, leaving you with a delicious, comforting side that's ready in a flash. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at your next dinner party, these mashed potatoes are unbelievably easy and incredibly tasty. Forget peeling and boiling – this method uses instant potatoes for a shortcut that doesn't compromise on flavor. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups instant mashed potato flakes
- 4 cups milk (whole milk recommended for extra creaminess, but you can use any kind)
- 1/2 cup butter, unsalted
- 1/4 cup sour cream or crème fraîche (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Crock Pot
Lightly grease your slow cooker with butter or cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
Step 2: Combining Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the instant mashed potato flakes, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). This ensures even seasoning throughout your potatoes.
Step 3: Adding Liquids and Fats
Pour the milk and melted butter into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Whisk everything together until a smooth, lump-free mixture forms. The mixture will be quite thick at this point.
Step 4: Slow Cooking the Magic
Pour the mixture into your prepared slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the potatoes are heated through and perfectly creamy. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once cooked, stir in the sour cream or crème fraîche (if using). This adds an extra layer of tangy creaminess that elevates the flavor profile significantly. Garnish with freshly chopped chives and serve immediately.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes:
- Milk Matters: Using whole milk results in richer, creamier mashed potatoes. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use 2% or skim milk, but you might need to add a tablespoon or two of extra butter for richness.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing can make your mashed potatoes gummy. Once the potatoes are cooked and creamy, gently fold in the sour cream and chives.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with different herbs and spices! Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, paprika, or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Make it Ahead: These mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time and kept warm in the slow cooker on the "warm" setting for up to 2 hours.
Variations:
- Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese blend during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roast a head of garlic before starting the recipe and add the roasted cloves to the slow cooker for a deeper, more complex flavor.
- Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: Approximately 15g
- Protein: Approximately 5g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25g
This crock pot instant mashed potato recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic comfort food. Its quick preparation time and minimal cleanup make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Enjoy!