Description
This Crockpot Potatoes recipe offers two flavorful variations—Garlic Ranch and Spicy Taco—both slow-cooked to tender perfection. Using simple ingredients and the convenience of a crockpot, these potatoes make a delicious and effortless side dish suitable for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Garlic Ranch Potatoes
- 3 pounds red potatoes (washed and quartered, or alternate with Yukon Gold or new potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (¼ stick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or substitute with avocado oil for a more neutral flavor)
- 1 ounce ranch seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Spicy Taco Potatoes
- 3 pounds red potatoes (washed and quartered)
- 1 ounce taco seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (¼ stick)
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Spray a large crockpot with nonstick spray to prevent potatoes from sticking during cooking.
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place all ingredients—either for Garlic Ranch or Spicy Taco potatoes—into the crockpot. Stir gently to combine. Because the potatoes are cold, the seasoning may not coat them completely at this stage, which is normal.
- Season Garlic Ranch Potatoes: For the Garlic Ranch version, add ranch seasoning, chopped fresh chives, minced garlic, butter, and olive oil. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
- Season Spicy Taco Potatoes: For the Spicy Taco variation, add taco seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, butter, and olive oil. Season with kosher salt and black pepper according to your preference.
- Cook the Potatoes: Set the crockpot to high and cook for 3 to 4 hours until the potatoes are fork tender. Stir the potatoes after 1 hour to help seasoning distribute evenly, and check again after 2½ hours to avoid overcooking, as cooking time may vary depending on potato size.
Notes
- Checking and stirring potatoes early helps ensure the seasoning coats evenly and the potatoes cook uniformly.
- Adjust seasoning and spices to your preferred taste, especially the crushed red pepper flakes for heat control.
- Red potatoes hold together well, but Yukon Gold or new potatoes can be used for a creamier texture.
- Use a digital meat thermometer to check tenderness if unsure—potatoes should be soft when pierced with a fork.
- Leftover potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
