Crockpot Potato Recipes: Easy & Delicious Meals
Are you looking for easy and delicious crockpot potato recipes? Look no further! This post will explore several fantastic ways to utilize your slow cooker to create amazing potato dishes, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. We'll cover everything from simple sides to hearty main courses, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Why Use a Crockpot for Potatoes?
Crockpots are amazing for cooking potatoes because they produce incredibly tender and flavorful results. The slow, low cooking method allows the potatoes to fully absorb the flavors of the other ingredients, creating a depth of taste you just can't get from other cooking methods. Plus, it's hands-off cooking! Toss everything in, set it, and forget it until dinner time.
Simple & Classic Crockpot Potato Recipes:
1. Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
This recipe takes classic mashed potatoes to a whole new level. The slow cooking process creates incredibly creamy and flavorful potatoes.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 cup butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place potatoes and garlic in the crockpot.
- Add milk/cream and butter.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Mash with a potato masher or electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Crockpot Loaded Baked Potatoes:
Enjoy the convenience of loaded baked potatoes without the oven preheating time!
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Chives, for garnish
Instructions:
- Pierce potatoes several times with a fork.
- Place potatoes in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until potatoes are soft.
- Top with butter, cheese, bacon bits, and sour cream.
- Garnish with chives.
Hearty Crockpot Potato Main Courses:
3. Crockpot Potato and Sausage Soup:
A hearty and satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs potatoes, diced
- 1 lb sausage, browned and crumbled
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until potatoes are tender.
4. Crockpot Chicken and Potato Stew:
A comforting and flavorful stew, perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 lbs potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
Tips for Crockpot Potato Success:
- Don't overfill your crockpot: Leave some space for the potatoes to cook evenly.
- Use the right kind of potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for mashing, while Yukon Golds are great for roasting or soups.
- Add liquid as needed: If your potatoes seem to be drying out, add a little more liquid.
- Experiment with flavors: Don't be afraid to add your own twist to these recipes!
With these delicious and easy crockpot potato recipes, you'll be able to enjoy flavorful and tender potatoes all year round. Happy cooking!