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**Slow Cooker Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Side Dish**
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as satisfying as **Slow Cooker Potatoes**. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a delicious side dish, these tender, flavorful potatoes are the perfect addition to any meal. Easy to make and adaptable to various flavor profiles, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
### Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Potatoes
1. **Effortless Preparation**: With minimal prep time and the slow cooker doing all the work, you can spend more time with family and friends.
2. **Versatile Flavor Options**: From herbs and spices to cheese and cream, you can customize the flavors to suit your taste.
3. **Perfectly Cooked Every Time**: The slow cooker ensures even cooking, resulting in tender potatoes that melt in your mouth.
4. **Great for Meal Prep**: These potatoes can easily be made ahead of time and reheated, making them an excellent choice for meal prep.
### Ingredients You’ll Need
– 2 pounds baby potatoes (red or Yukon gold), halved or quartered
– 1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter
– 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese or shredded cheddar for serving
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
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### Step-by-Step Instructions
**1. Prepare the Potatoes**:
– Wash and scrub the baby potatoes to remove any dirt. Cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size.
**2. Mix the Seasonings**:
– In a large bowl, combine the olive oil (or melted butter), minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
**3. Coat the Potatoes**:
– Add the halved potatoes to the bowl and toss them in the seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated.
**4. Transfer to Slow Cooker**:
– Place the seasoned potatoes in the slow cooker, spreading them out evenly.
**5. Cook**:
– Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The potatoes should be fork-tender when done.
**6. Serve**:
– Once cooked, transfer the potatoes to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle with grated cheese and fresh parsley for an added flavor boost.
### Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Potatoes
– **Cut Evenly**: Ensure that the potato pieces are cut evenly to guarantee uniform cooking.
– **Layering**: If you’re cooking other ingredients in the slow cooker, layer the potatoes on the bottom for optimal heat exposure.
– **Add Extra Flavor**: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices. Paprika, Italian seasoning, or even a splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavor.
– **Check for Doneness**: Test the potatoes with a fork to check for tenderness. They should easily pierce through but not be mushy.
### Customization Ideas
– **Cheesy Garlic Potatoes**: Add shredded cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a gooey, cheesy finish.
– **Herbed Potatoes**: Mix in fresh parsley, chives, or dill for a burst of freshness.
– **Spicy Kick**: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the seasoning mix.
– **Creamy Version**: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving for a creamy texture.
### Perfect Pairings
Slow Cooker Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can complement a variety of main dishes. Here are some great pairings:
– **Roast Chicken**: The savory flavors of roasted chicken work beautifully with seasoned potatoes.
– **Grilled Steak**: Serve alongside a perfectly grilled steak for a hearty, satisfying meal.
– **Barbecue Ribs**: The tangy flavor of barbecue ribs is enhanced by the creamy texture of the potatoes.
– **Vegetarian Dishes**: These potatoes make a great side for grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
### Conclusion
**Slow Cooker Potatoes** are not just a side dish; they’re a comforting addition to any meal. With their effortless preparation and customizable flavors, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you keep it simple with garlic and herbs or take it up a notch with cheese and cream, these potatoes will surely impress your family and friends. So, dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a deliciously satisfying dish that everyone will love!