The Genius Mashed Potato Trick That Will Make Thanksgiving Dinner 10x Easier

I love side dishes more than the turkey and ham at Thanksgiving dinner, and as far as side dishes go, mashed potatoes are one of my favorites. In fact, it's a favorite side dish for most Americans, coming in second this year on the popularity scale (stuffing/dressing was number one).

It makes sense because mashed potatoes are the unsung hero of Thanksgiving, in my opinion, quietly stealing the spotlight with their creamy, fluffy texture and unmatched versatility. They’re the ultimate comfort food, a blank canvas that complements every part of the holiday feast. Whether they're drenched in rich, savory gravy, swirled with melted butter, or seasoned with garlic and herbs, mashed potatoes bring an understated indulgence to the table.

The only issue with mashed potatoes is the classic Thanksgiving conundrum: so many sides, so little room on the stove and in the oven. Luckily, America's Test Kitchen (aka ATK), the cooking show and multimedia brand known for its rigorously testing recipes, shared a tip that will help you make those potatoes faster and easier this year, and I'm definitely giving this a try!

Related: How to Make Mashed Potatoes 10x Better, According to My Chef-Husband

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How to Make Your Mashed Potatoes in the Slow Cooker

Joseph Gitter, a test cook at ATK, shared this tip and recipe via ATK's Instagram page. In the video, he promised that the slow cooker is the way to get "perfect mashed potatoes." We're listening.

To make them, slice a full five-pound bag of peeled Russet potatoes into quarter-inch slices. Add to your slow cooker with salt and boiling water and then brush the potatoes with melted butter so they don't oxidize while cooking. Place some parchment paper on top and press it down to help steam the potatoes. Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook for 3 to 6 hours, depending on when you want them ready for your feast.

Once they're done, mash the potatoes right in the slow cooker without draining the water. Stir in sour cream, minced chives and more melted butter. You can keep them warm in the slow cooker until it's time to chow down! Could that be any easier?

Related: The Secret Ingredient for the Best-Ever Mashed Potatoes, According to Oprah

What People Are Saying About Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

"Slow cooker for the win!" someone commented on the post. We love an appliance that works hard so we don't have to!

"Great idea! Takes the stress of a burner or oven on turkey day!" another person said. I can think of several more side dishes to cook now that I'll have some free space and time.

"Instant Pot works great if you don’t want to have them cook for so long or want them down in a hurry," another person chimed in. That's also a great tip! Anything that makes Thanksgiving cooking easier is a win for me!

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