Irresistibly Easy Slow Cooker Roast Potatoes: Your Ultimate Hands-Off Side Dish
Imagine perfectly tender, fluffy potatoes with a hint of golden crispness, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. These delicious slow cooker roast potatoes are not just simple to make; they’re a game-changer for busy cooks, offering a truly hands-off way to prepare a beloved side dish, especially when you’re orchestrating a grand feast like Thanksgiving dinner or a festive Christmas spread.
Preparing a big holiday meal, be it Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, can often feel overwhelming. The kitchen becomes a battlefield of multiple dishes competing for oven space and your precious attention. This is where the magic of slow cooker recipes, like these incredible crock pot potatoes, truly shines. They allow you to ‘set it and forget it,’ freeing up your time and oven for other crucial elements of your meal. No more juggling roasting pans or constantly checking on your potatoes!
Our recipe promises potatoes that are wonderfully fluffy and tender on the inside, with a delectable slight sear on the outside that hints at their deep flavor. Coated generously in savory Parmesan cheese, crunchy coarse salt, and fresh, aromatic parsley, every bite is a burst of comforting deliciousness. In fact, just describing them makes my mouth water!
Why Slow Cooker Roast Potatoes Are a Game Changer
Beyond their mouth-watering taste, these slow cooker roast potatoes offer unparalleled convenience and a guaranteed delicious outcome. They are designed to simplify your cooking process without compromising on flavor or texture. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire:
- Hands-Free Cooking: This recipe is truly “hands-off,” allowing you to focus on other dishes, entertain guests, or simply relax while your slow cooker works its magic. It’s the ultimate time-saver for busy holidays or weeknights.
- Consistently Perfect Texture: Slow cooking ensures the potatoes become incredibly tender and fluffy throughout, while developing a lovely outer texture with a subtle sear, a characteristic often hard to achieve without constant attention.
- Simple, Wholesome Ingredients: Using basic, readily available ingredients, this recipe proves that incredible flavor doesn’t require complex shopping lists. It’s a comforting side dish that feels gourmet but is incredibly approachable.
- Irresistible Flavor Profile: The combination of rich butter, fragrant garlic powder, sharp Parmesan, and fresh parsley creates a deeply satisfying savory taste that complements almost any main course.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Potatoes are the quintessential comfort food, and this recipe elevates them to a new level of deliciousness, making them a family favorite for any occasion.
- Oven Space Saver: For holiday dinners, oven space is prime real estate. Cooking your potatoes in the slow cooker frees up your oven for your turkey, ham, or other roasted dishes.
Table of Contents
- Why Slow Cooker Roast Potatoes Are a Game Changer
- Ingredients You’ll Need for Perfect Slow Cooker Potatoes
- Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Slow Cooker Roast Potatoes
- Mastering the Crisp: Achieving Golden Perfection
- Creative Variations & Delicious Substitutions
- Essential Equipment for Slow Cooker Success
- Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Roast Potatoes
- Storing & Reheating Leftovers Like a Pro
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- More Irresistible Slow Cooker Recipes
- Recipe Card: Slow Cooker Roast Potatoes
- Fan Favorite Recipes
Ingredients You’ll Need for Perfect Slow Cooker Potatoes
Crafting these delectable slow cooker roast potatoes requires a few simple, high-quality ingredients that work together to create an unforgettable flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: These are the star of our dish! Yukon Golds are chosen for their thin skin, creamy texture when cooked, and naturally buttery flavor. They hold their shape well but become incredibly tender, making them ideal for roasting.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds a rich, irresistible flavor and helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown exterior. Using unsalted butter gives you control over the overall sodium content.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil complements the butter, adding another layer of flavor and contributing to the potatoes’ lovely sear.
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that are absolutely essential to bring out the natural flavors of the potatoes. Don’t be shy with the salt!
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts into a wonderfully nutty, salty crust on the potatoes, adding depth and a gourmet touch.
- Garlic Powder: This provides a consistent, mellow garlic flavor that infuses deeply into the potatoes during slow cooking, without the risk of burning that fresh garlic might have over a long cooking time.
- Coarse Sea Salt: A final sprinkle of coarse sea salt adds a delightful textural crunch and a burst of salty goodness just before serving.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley is added at the end for a vibrant pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous aroma that brightens the entire dish.
For precise quantities and a printable recipe card, please scroll to the bottom of this post.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Slow Cooker Roast Potatoes
Creating these perfectly roasted potatoes in your slow cooker is incredibly straightforward. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a sensational side dish with minimal effort. Remember, a detailed recipe card with exact measurements is available at the very end of this post.
- Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes. Begin by peeling your Yukon Gold potatoes. Once peeled, cut them into uniform 2-3 inch blocks. Aim for pieces that are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
- Step 2: Season and Coat. Transfer the cut potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Add the melted unsalted butter, olive oil, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Using your hands, thoroughly mix the potatoes until each piece is evenly coated with the seasonings and oils. This step is crucial for flavor distribution.
- Step 3: Load the Slow Cooker. Carefully transfer all the seasoned potatoes into your large (7-quart is ideal) slow cooker. Spread them out as much as possible to create a single layer, or at least an even distribution, which helps with consistent cooking.
- Step 4: Cook to Perfection. Cover your slow cooker with its lid and cook on the HIGH setting for 4 hours. If you prefer cooking on LOW, it will take approximately 6 hours. Halfway through the cooking time (around 2 hours on HIGH or 3 hours on LOW), give the potatoes a good stir. This helps prevent sticking and ensures they cook evenly.
- Step 5: Finish and Serve. Once the cooking time is complete and the potatoes are fork-tender, open the lid. Sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of coarse sea salt for added texture, and freshly chopped parsley. Stir gently to combine or serve as is, allowing the toppings to melt slightly from the residual heat. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Hint: The degree of “roast” or browning your potatoes achieve depends significantly on your slow cooker’s heat distribution and how hot it runs. If you desire a more pronounced golden crust at the end of the cooking process, don’t worry! Simply transfer the cooked potatoes onto a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated 500°F (260°C) oven for just 5-10 minutes, or until beautifully browned and crispy.
Mastering the Crisp: Achieving Golden Perfection
While slow cooking excels at creating incredibly tender and flavorful potatoes, achieving that perfect, deep golden crisp can sometimes be a challenge without direct high heat. Here are a few strategies to ensure your slow cooker roast potatoes develop a delightful crunch:
- The Oven Boost: As mentioned in our hint, this is the most effective method. After the potatoes are fully cooked in the slow cooker, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Pop them into a very hot oven (450-500°F or 230-260°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as they can brown quickly! This high heat flash-roast will give you those coveted crispy edges.
- The Pan Sear: If you don’t want to turn on your oven, you can also transfer portions of the cooked potatoes to a hot skillet with a little extra oil or butter. Cook over medium-high heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and crispy. This works well for smaller batches.
- The Air Fryer Advantage: For smaller servings or faster crisping, transfer cooked potatoes to an air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket once or twice, until crispy and golden.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: While slow cookers can handle a crowd, trying to cram too many potatoes can lead to steaming rather than searing. If possible, ensure the potatoes have some room to breathe, especially at the bottom where direct heat is applied.
By using one of these techniques, you can enjoy all the convenience of slow cooking with the satisfying texture of perfectly roasted potatoes.
Creative Variations & Delicious Substitutions
This slow cooker roast potato recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to customize the flavors and textures to your liking. Here are some fantastic ideas for variations and substitutions:
- Potato Varieties: While Yukon Golds are preferred for their creaminess, you can easily substitute with other types.
- Russet Potatoes: These will yield a fluffier, starchier interior.
- Red Potatoes: Keep the skins on for a rustic look and added nutrients. They offer a slightly firmer texture.
- Baby Potatoes: For a delightful presentation, use baby potatoes and leave them whole. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed.
- Flavor Boosters: Elevate the taste profile with these additions:
- Beef Broth: Add a tablespoon or two of beef broth (or chicken broth) for an extra layer of savory depth and to prevent sticking.
- Italian Seasoning: A teaspoon of Italian seasoning blend will introduce a lovely herbaceous aroma and flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Beyond parsley, consider adding other fresh herbs like chopped rosemary, thyme, or oregano for more complex aromas.
- Onion Granules: For a subtle oniony kick without the raw texture, a half teaspoon of onion granules works wonders.
- Garlic Salt: If you love garlic, swap out the regular salt for garlic salt, but remember to adjust quantities as garlic salt is usually less potent than pure garlic powder and regular salt combined.
- Fresh Garlic: Instead of garlic powder, mince 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic and toss them with the potatoes for a more pungent garlic flavor.
- Ranch Dressing Mix: For a popular family-friendly twist, stir in a packet of dry ranch dressing mix with the potatoes and butter/oil. This transforms them into delicious ranch potatoes.
- Different Cuts: Change up the texture and appearance:
- Potato Wedges: Instead of blocks, cut your potatoes into wedges for a slightly different roast potato experience.
- Alternative Garnishes:
- Green Onions: Sprinkle with chopped green onions (scallions) instead of or in addition to parsley for a mild oniony freshness.
- Crispy Bacon Bits: For an indulgent touch, crumble some crispy bacon over the top just before serving.
- Smoked Paprika: A pinch of smoked paprika can add a beautiful color and a smoky depth to the potatoes.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and tailor this recipe to your family’s preferences. These variations ensure that your slow cooker roast potatoes can be a new and exciting dish every time you make them!
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Essential Equipment for Slow Cooker Success
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To make this recipe a breeze, you’ll need just a couple of standard kitchen items, primarily a reliable slow cooker. For this specific recipe, I find my 7-quart slow cooker works perfectly, providing enough space for the potatoes to cook evenly without overcrowding.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for tossing your potatoes with the seasonings and oils. A good set of glass mixing bowls is always a kitchen staple.
- 7 Quart Slow Cooker: This size is ideal for accommodating a good batch of potatoes for a family meal or a gathering. My personal favorite is this 7-quart Crock-Pot.
- Vegetable Peeler: For easily peeling your potatoes.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For safely and efficiently cutting the potatoes into uniform pieces.
Having the right tools makes the cooking process much smoother and more enjoyable!
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Roast Potatoes
These slow cooker roast potatoes are incredibly versatile and make a fantastic side dish for a wide variety of meals, from holiday feasts to simple weeknight dinners. Their rich, savory flavor and tender texture complement almost anything. Here are some ideas for what to serve them with:
- Holiday Roasts: They are a natural pairing for a roasted turkey, ham, prime rib, or a succulent lamb roast during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.
- Weeknight Proteins: Serve them alongside a simple roasted chicken, pan-seared pork chops, baked salmon, or a juicy steak.
- Comfort Food Classics: These potatoes are excellent with meatloaf, pot roast, or even a hearty stew.
- Breakfast/Brunch: Don’t limit them to dinner! Serve them as a savory component of a breakfast or brunch spread with scrambled eggs, bacon, and sausages.
- Vegetarian Mains: Pair them with a hearty lentil loaf, mushroom Wellington, or a robust vegetable gratin for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Beyond the main dish, consider these additional garnishes or serving ideas to further enhance your meal:
- Fresh Herbs: A generous sprinkle of additional fresh parsley, chives, or dill right before serving adds freshness and visual appeal.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt can add a creamy, tangy contrast.
- Cheese Sauce: For an extra decadent treat, drizzle with a homemade cheese sauce.
- Caramelized Onions: Sweet caramelized onions can be stirred in or served on top for a layer of rich, sweet flavor.
- Crispy Onions: Fried crispy onions or shallots provide an extra textural crunch.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these slow cooker roast potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
More Irresistible Slow Cooker Recipes I Think You’ll Love
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and deliciousness of slow cooker meals, you’re in for a treat! The slow cooker is a fantastic kitchen tool for creating tender, flavorful dishes with minimal fuss. Here are some more of my favorite slow cooker recipes that I believe you’ll absolutely adore:
- Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili: A spicy and flavorful chili that’s perfect for game day or a cozy evening.
- Slow Cooker Rabbit Stew: A unique and hearty stew with tender rabbit meat and vegetables.
- Slow Cooker Cajun Red Beans and Rice: Bring a taste of Louisiana to your table with this rich and comforting classic.
- Crock Pot Beer Chili Recipe: A robust chili with the added depth of beer, ideal for chilly weather.
- Crock Pot Pinto Beans: Simple yet incredibly flavorful pinto beans, perfect as a side or main dish.
- Crock Pot Ranch Chicken Spaghetti: A creamy and savory pasta dish that’s a family favorite.
- Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes with Chicken Broth: Another fantastic potato side, incredibly smooth and full of flavor.
- Crock Pot Carrots and Ground Meat: A simple, comforting meal with tender carrots and savory ground meat.
Storing & Reheating Leftovers Like a Pro
If you’re lucky enough to have any leftover slow cooker roast potatoes, you’ll be pleased to know they store and reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prepping or enjoying throughout the week.
- Refrigeration: Once the potatoes have cooled completely to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead option.
- Freezing: These potatoes also freeze exceptionally well! For longer storage, place the cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tip: For the absolute best results when reheating these potatoes, especially if you want to restore some of their crispy edges, an air fryer is your secret weapon. Place the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes, shaking occasionally, until heated through and nicely crisped. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot and slightly browned.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I put raw potatoes in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Raw potatoes are perfectly suitable for slow cooking. When given the appropriate time, they will cook to a wonderfully tender and fluffy perfection. Our recipe specifically calls for raw, peeled, and cut potatoes, which transform beautifully over a few hours in the slow cooker.
Why won’t my slow cooker potatoes get crispy?
Achieving a truly crispy exterior on potatoes in a slow cooker can be challenging because the cooking environment is typically moist and at a lower temperature than an oven. For potatoes to become crispy, they generally require higher direct heat. Some slow cookers run hotter than others, which might give you a slight sear at the bottom if stirred occasionally. However, if you desire a proper golden, crispy crust, the best method is to finish them off in a very hot oven (450-500°F or 230-260°C) for 5-10 minutes after they’re cooked through in the slow cooker. An air fryer is also excellent for this quick crisping step. Don’t worry if they aren’t fully crispy straight out of the crock pot; the flavor will still be incredible!
What kind of potatoes are best for slow cooker roasting?
Yukon Gold potatoes are highly recommended for slow cooker roasting. They have a naturally buttery flavor, a thin skin (which can be left on if desired, though we peel them here), and a creamy, tender texture when cooked. Their medium starch content allows them to hold their shape well without becoming mushy, while still absorbing all the delicious flavors.
Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can certainly prepare some elements ahead! You can peel and cut the potatoes a day in advance and store them in a bowl of cold water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Drain and pat them very dry before proceeding with Step 2. The entire dish can also be cooked a day ahead and then reheated, following our reheating tips, especially for crisping them up.
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Recipe Card: Slow Cooker Roast Potatoes
Print Recipe
Slow Cooker Roast Potatoes
These Slow Cooker Roast Potatoes are incredibly simple and offer a fantastic hands-off method for preparing a delicious side dish, perfect for busy holiday dinners like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
10 minutes
4 hours
4 hours
10 minutes
6
American, Slow Cooker
Melanie Cagle
Equipment
- Glass Mixing Bowls
- 7 Quart Crock Pot
Ingredients
- 8 Each Yellow Potatoes (Yukon Gold recommended)
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 2 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted)
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ¼ Cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 Pinch Coarse Sea Salt (for finishing)
- 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the 8 yellow (Yukon Gold) potatoes and cut them into uniform 2-3 inch pieces. Aim for consistency in size for even cooking.
- Season and Coat: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cut potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Use your hands to thoroughly toss and coat every potato piece.
- Load the Slow Cooker: Transfer the seasoned potatoes into a large 7-quart slow cooker, spreading them out as evenly as possible.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 4 hours, or on LOW for 6 hours. Make sure to stir the potatoes gently halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Finish and Serve: Once cooked and tender, sprinkle the potatoes with ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of coarse sea salt, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley. Stir gently and serve hot.
Notes
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Nutrition
Serving:
1
g
|
Calories:
307
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
50
g
|
Protein:
7
g
|
Fat:
10
g
|
Saturated Fat:
4
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
6
g
|
Cholesterol:
14
mg
|
Sodium:
298
mg
|
Fiber:
5
g
|
Sugar:
3
g
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