Slow Cooker Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe

If you are searching for a comforting, creamy, and utterly delicious side dish to steal the spotlight at your next meal, this *Slow Cooker Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe* is going to become your new best friend. Imagine tender red potatoes, slowly cooked to perfection, infused with rich buttermilk and a blend of warming spices, delivering mashed potatoes so smooth and flavorful, every bite feels like a warm hug. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, making this recipe as easy as it is irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating the perfect bowl of mashed potatoes is all about simple, quality ingredients that combine for a rich and satisfying texture and flavor. Each item on this list plays a key role, from the creamy butter to the tangy buttermilk and the blend of spices that gives the potatoes depth and personality.

• 5 pounds red potatoes: Red potatoes hold their shape beautifully and provide a creamy yet slightly firm texture when mashed.
• 6 tablespoons butter: Butter adds luscious richness and helps to infuse the potatoes with velvety flavor.
• 2 teaspoons salt: Essential for seasoning — it brings out the natural flavors of the potatoes.
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper: A little pepper adds just the right touch of warmth and bite.
• 1 teaspoon seasoning salt: Adds complexity and a subtle kick to the overall flavor profile.
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons parsley: Dried parsley lends a fresh, herbaceous note to the mix.
• 4 teaspoons minced garlic: Garlic adds a savory depth that brightens every mouthful.
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Provides an additional layer of savory sweetness.
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper: A tiny bit of heat that lingers and complements the creamy base.
• 1/8 teaspoon lemon pepper (optional): Adds a subtle hint of citrus zest and spice for freshness.
• 1 & 1/2 cups buttermilk: The star ingredient, providing tangy creaminess and moisture.
• 1/3 cup sour cream: Enhances the tang and makes the potatoes unbelievably silky.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (plus more to taste): Added after cooking for extra creaminess and to adjust consistency.
• Fresh parsley (chopped): For garnish, adding a touch of color and freshness.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, adjusted during finishing touches.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Added at the end for a glossy finish and extra flavor punch.

How to Make Slow Cooker Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes

Start by washing and scrubbing your red potatoes until they’re clean and ready to go. Chop them into 1-2 inch chunks for even cooking; the smaller the chunks, the faster they’ll cook through in your slow cooker. This simple prep sets the foundation for tender, flavorful mashed potatoes.

Step 2: Butter the Slow Cooker

Rub the sides and bottom of your crock pot with the end of 6 tablespoons of butter. This trick not only keeps your potatoes from sticking but infuses flavor right from the start. Chop the remaining butter into chunks and have it ready to add with the potatoes.

Step 3: Combine Potatoes and Butter

Place your potato chunks in the slow cooker alongside those butter pieces. As the butter slowly melts during cooking, it will soak into the potatoes, elevating their creamy texture.

Step 4: Season Everything

Sprinkle the potatoes with salt, black pepper, seasoning salt, parsley, minced garlic, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and the optional lemon pepper. This blend will slowly work its magic, giving your mashed potatoes a warm, complex flavor that smells and tastes incredible.

Step 5: Pour Buttermilk and Stir

Pour 1 and 1/2 cups of buttermilk over the seasoned potatoes and give everything a gentle stir. The buttermilk adds a tangy creaminess that’s essential to this Slow Cooker Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe’s signature flavor.

Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your slow cooker to high and cook for about 3 hours, or choose low and cook for 7 hours if you prefer. Check the potatoes by piercing them with a fork; they should be tender and easily break apart. If needed, cook in additional half-hour increments to reach that perfect softness. Be watchful that the potatoes do not brown — that means they’re overcooking. Depending on your crock pot’s age, cook times may vary slightly.

Step 7: Mash the Potatoes

When the potatoes are tender, mash them directly in the slow cooker. Whether you use a traditional masher or an electric mixer, be gentle to avoid overworking the potatoes and releasing too much starch, which can turn them gluey. At first, it may seem like your potatoes are a bit watery, but don’t worry—they’ll soak up the liquid beautifully.

Step 8: Finish with Sour Cream and Extra Buttermilk

Add the sour cream and stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of buttermilk, adjusting the amount to your preferred consistency. This step brings creaminess and a slight tang that makes these mashed potatoes wonderfully addictive.

Step 9: The Final Touches

Stir in the last 2 tablespoons of butter, then season with salt and pepper to taste. For an added layer of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley right before serving.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing is all about adding visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brings a lovely pop of green, while a pat of melting butter on top adds richness. For some extra flair, crispy fried onions or chives can be a delightful finishing touch that makes your mashed potatoes irresistible.

Side Dishes

These fluffy potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of mains. Think roasted chicken, juicy steaks, or glazed ham — the tangy creaminess of your Slow Cooker Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe perfectly complements rich, savory proteins. Serve alongside roasted veggies or a crisp green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a lovely presentation, scoop the mashed potatoes into a serving bowl and create pretty peaks with the back of a spoon, then drizzle melted butter over the top. Alternatively, pipe the warm mashed potatoes into individual ramekins for a charming touch at dinner parties. You can also turn leftovers into loaded potato cakes or top with gravy and cheese for a quick, comforting meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers — which might be tricky! — store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the potatoes before sealing to retain their fresh flavor and creamy texture once reheated.

Freezing

Mashed potatoes can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. To freeze your Slow Cooker Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe, pop them into a freezer-safe container with a tight lid and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of buttermilk or cream to refresh their creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and maintain that luscious texture that makes this recipe so special.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

While regular milk will work in a pinch, buttermilk is key for delivering the signature tang and richness in this recipe. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Why red potatoes for mashed potatoes?

Red potatoes hold their shape a bit better and have a naturally creamy texture, which makes them perfect for slow cooker mashed potatoes. They also have a pleasant subtle sweetness that complements the tangy buttermilk beautifully.

Can I prepare the potatoes the night before?

You can chop and season the potatoes the night before, but it’s best to add the buttermilk and start the slow cooker fresh so the potatoes don’t discolor or become mushy in the fridge overnight.

How do I prevent my mashed potatoes from becoming gluey?

Be careful not to overmix or over-beat your potatoes. Mash them gently and avoid beating for too long, as this releases starch and can make your potatoes gluey. Using a slow cooker helps by cooking them gently and evenly.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Absolutely! While the original spice blend is delicious, feel free to experiment with rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika to make the recipe your own. Just remember to adjust quantities so the flavors stay balanced.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth and carry that tangy, buttery richness that only buttermilk can provide. This Slow Cooker Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe not only simplifies your cooking process but delivers a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a go-to in your kitchen, just like I have in mine. Happy cooking!

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