Dump Potatoes in a Slow Cooker: A Delicious and Effortless Recipe
Are you looking for a simple and hassle-free way to make delicious potatoes? Look no further! Dump potatoes in a slow cooker is a fantastic recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want a comforting side dish for your family dinner, this recipe is a game-changer. In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making dump potatoes in a slow cooker, share expert tips for success, offer variations and substitutions, and provide serving suggestions. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dump potatoes recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make. You can simply dump all the ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it until the potatoes are perfectly cooked. Secondly, the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in tender and flavorful potatoes. Lastly, this recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer savory herbs or a little kick of spice, you can easily adapt this recipe to your liking.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make dump potatoes in a slow cooker:
- 2 pounds of potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
- 1/4 cup of melted butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Note: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices based on your preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly and cut them into bite-sized cubes. Leave the skin on for added texture and nutritional value.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the cubed potatoes in the slow cooker and pour the butter and herb mixture over them. Toss well to coat the potatoes evenly.
- Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the slow cooker. The broth will help keep the potatoes moist during cooking.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, you can optionally sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
- Serve the dump potatoes as a delicious side dish or as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad.
Pro Tip: If you prefer crispy potatoes, you can transfer them to a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for a few minutes after they are done cooking in the slow cooker. This will give them a golden and crispy exterior.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some expert tips to ensure your dump potatoes turn out perfectly every time:
- Choose the right type of potatoes: Russet or Yukon gold potatoes work best for this recipe as they hold their shape well during slow cooking.
- Don’t overcook the potatoes: Keep an eye on the potatoes as cooking times may vary depending on the size of the potato cubes and the brand of your slow cooker. Test the potatoes for tenderness with a fork to avoid overcooking.
- Allow for customization: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. You can add fresh herbs like parsley or substitute dried herbs with your favorites.
- Use high-quality broth: The quality of the broth will greatly impact the flavor of your potatoes. Choose a flavorful chicken or vegetable broth to enhance the taste.
Variations and Substitutions
While the classic dump potatoes recipe is delicious on its own, you can get creative and customize it to your liking. Here are some variations and substitutions to try:
- Add onions and bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a savory twist.
- For a cheesy version, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking.
Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own!
Serving Suggestions
Dump potatoes in a slow cooker pair well with a variety of main dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve the potatoes alongside a juicy steak or grilled chicken for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Pair them with roasted vegetables and a protein of your choice for a well-balanced dinner.
- Enjoy them as a side dish with your favorite homemade burgers or sandwiches.
- For a vegetarian option, serve the potatoes with a refreshing salad and some crusty bread.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these dump potatoes are sure to be a hit!
FAQs
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can be a delicious and nutritious alternative. Follow the same instructions but adjust the cooking time as sweet potatoes may cook faster.
Q: Can I make dump potatoes ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the potatoes the night before and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply transfer the potatoes and the liquid mixture to the slow cooker and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftover dump potatoes?
A: While it’s possible to freeze the leftovers, the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to consume them fresh for the best taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
Dump potatoes in a slow cooker is a fantastic recipe that combines convenience and deliciousness. With minimal effort, you can enjoy tender and flavorful potatoes that pair perfectly with a variety of main dishes. Whether you’re a busy parent or a beginner cook, this recipe is a game-changer. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and unleash your culinary creativity. Happy cooking!
Dump potatoes in a slow cooker
A hassle-free and delicious recipe where potatoes are cooked in a slow cooker with a blend of herbs and spices, resulting in tender and flavorful potatoes. Perfect as a side dish or a main course.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Directions
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Wash the potatoes thoroughly and cut them into bite-sized cubes, leaving the skin on.
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In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
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Place cubed potatoes in the slow cooker and pour the butter and herb mixture over them. Toss well to coat evenly.
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Pour chicken or vegetable broth into the slow cooker to keep the potatoes moist.
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Cover and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or until potatoes are tender.
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Optional: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
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Serve as a side dish or a main course with a salad.
