Step 1

Place cubed potatoes into a large pot and cover with water. Water level should be at least an inch above potatoes to allow for proper boiling. Salt water if desired. Bring to a boil.

Step 2

Boil until potatoes easily break apart when pierced with a fork. As potatoes are often cut at different sizes, this can take anywhere from 10-30 minutes. After ten minutes start testing by gently stabbing a potato with a fork (this can be done in the water). If it breaks up with no real pressure, then the potatoes are done. Drain.

Step 3

Return drained potatos to empty pot and add in butter, cream cheese, 1/2 cup of half and half, sour cream, salt and pepper. Mash with a potato masher. An electric mixer can be used, but don't over-do it or you'll wind up with gummy mashed potatoes.

Step 4

Transfer mixture to slow cooker and place on warm until ready to serve. If mixture will be kept in slow cooker for more than an hour, give a stir and add a splash of half and half or milk every hour or so to prevent drying. Top with additional butter just before serving if desired.