These Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes are the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. With minimal effort, you can create a delicious side dish that complements any meal, from holiday feasts to casual weeknight dinners. The combination of tender baby potatoes, fragrant Italian herbs, and savory Parmesan makes this dish a standout choice for gatherings and celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Simply toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do all the work while you focus on other tasks.
- Bursting with Flavor: Infused with Italian herbs and garlic, these potatoes deliver a taste that will impress your family and guests.
- Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from holiday dinners to summer BBQs, making it a go-to recipe for every season.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with fresh vegetables and olive oil, this dish is a healthier alternative to heavier sides.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your kitchen tools. The right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cooking spray
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This essential tool allows for low-and-slow cooking, ensuring flavors meld beautifully while you relax.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even distribution of flavors in the potato mixture.
- Knife & Cutting board: These tools help prepare your vegetables efficiently for an organized cooking experience.
Ingredients
These set-it-and-forget-it potatoes are loaded with Italian herbs and Parmesan for an effortless side dish that tastes like it took hours of work!
For the Potatoes
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (halved or quartered)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Vegetables
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (chunked)
- 1 onion (chunked)
- 2 carrots (chunked)
Additional Seasoning
- Red pepper flakes to taste
- Extra garlic powder
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
How to Make Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Spray the slow cooker insert with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This ensures easy cleanup later on.
Step 2: Add the Potatoes
Place halved baby potatoes into the slow cooker. They should be distributed evenly across the bottom.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil,
2. 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning,
3. 3 cloves minced garlic,
4. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese,
5. 1 teaspoon kosher salt,
6. and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
Pour this mixture over the potatoes, tossing well to coat them evenly.
Step 4: Cook Them Right
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours until tender. Stir occasionally if possible to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Final Touches
Check tenderness with a fork at the minimum cooking time:
– Once done, stir in half of the chopped fresh parsley.
– Transfer to a serving bowl and top with remaining parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
– Season with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes as a delightful addition to any meal!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes
Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with many meals. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Grilled Meats
- Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken complements the rich flavors of the potatoes.
- Steak: The heartiness of steak balances perfectly with the Italian herbs in the potatoes.
As Part of a Vegetarian Feast
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair these potatoes with seasonal roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast.
On a Buffet Table
- Italian Sausage: Serve alongside sliced Italian sausage for a robust flavor combination.
- Antipasto Platter: Include them as part of an antipasto platter featuring olives, cheeses, and cured meats.
For a Cozy Family Dinner
- Meatloaf: These potatoes make an excellent companion for comforting meatloaf.
- Pot Pie: Add texture and flavor when served next to a warm pot pie.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes
To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley elevate the dish’s flavor significantly.
- Cut Evenly: Ensure potatoes are cut to similar sizes for uniform cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid packing too many ingredients into the slow cooker; it can affect cooking time.
- Check Flavors Midway: Taste during cooking to adjust seasonings as needed.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the potatoes to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps enhance their flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes
When planning your meal, consider pairing Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes with these delicious side dishes for an unforgettable feast.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any sauce or juices from your main dish.
- Caesar Salad: A classic salad that adds crispness and freshness to your meal.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a bright color and flavor contrast.
- Stuffed Peppers: Hearty stuffed peppers bring additional protein and flavors to your table.
- Minestrone Soup: A warming soup that works well as a starter or side option.
- Focaccia Bread: Soft, herbed focaccia is great for dipping alongside these flavorful potatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using a slow cooker can be simple, but mistakes can lead to less flavorful results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
-
Not Prepping the Ingredients Properly: Failing to cut the potatoes and vegetables into even sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure uniform pieces for consistent tenderness.
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Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Adding too many ingredients at once can hinder heat distribution. Stick to the recommended amounts to ensure everything cooks evenly.
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Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping or skimping on seasonings can result in bland potatoes. Use the right amount of Italian herbs and cheese for maximum flavor.
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Lifting the Lid Frequently: Opening the slow cooker lid releases heat and steam, extending cook time. Resist the urge to check too often.
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Ignoring Cooking Times: Every slow cooker is different; not all cook at the same speed. Always check for tenderness at the minimum cooking time suggested.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container.
- Store for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Allow the potatoes to cool before sealing.
Freezing Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes
- Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with dates for easy tracking.
Reheating Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes
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Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place potatoes in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
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Microwave: Place desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 30-second intervals until warm.
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Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add potatoes and a splash of water, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about preparing Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes:
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use larger potatoes cut into chunks, but adjust cooking times as needed for different sizes.
How do I make Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply omit Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative that melts well.
What if I want more spice in my Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes?
You can add more red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include your favorite veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes are not only simple but also delicious and versatile. This recipe allows you to customize flavors by adding your favorite herbs or veggies. Give it a try at your next dinner gathering!
Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes are the ultimate side dish that combines effortless preparation with rich, savory flavors. This recipe features tender baby potatoes infused with aromatic Italian herbs and topped with creamy Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, these potatoes require minimal effort to prepare—just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic! The result is a mouthwatering dish that complements any meal, from grilled meats to hearty vegetarian options.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (halved or quartered)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Fresh parsley, bell pepper, onion, carrots, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Spray the slow cooker insert with cooking spray.
- Add halved baby potatoes into the slow cooker evenly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Pour over the potatoes and mix well.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours until tender.
- Stir in half of the chopped parsley before serving; garnish with remaining parsley and extra Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours on LOW
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
