Creamy Slow-Cooker Potatoes Recipe
Introduction
This creamy slow-cooker potato dish is the ultimate comfort side—rich, velvety, and effortlessly delicious. By letting the potatoes cook slowly in a luscious cream mixture, they absorb all the flavors, creating a tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or whenever you need a warm, indulgent side without the fuss.
Ingredients & Quantities
2 pounds (≈900 g) potatoes, quartered (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and mild flavor)
1/2 cup (50 g) shredded cheddar or gruyère cheese (optional for topping)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Prep the potatoes: Wash, peel (optional), and quarter the potatoes.
Make the creamy mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.
Combine in slow cooker: Place the quartered potatoes into a 4–6 quart slow cooker. Pour the creamy mixture over the potatoes, making sure they are mostly covered.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Optional topping: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the potatoes in the last 15–20 minutes of cooking to melt.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm.
Origin
While slow-cooked creamy potatoes are not tied to a single historical recipe, the method draws inspiration from traditional European gratins, particularly French Gratin Dauphinois, where potatoes are baked in cream and butter until tender. Slow-cooker adaptations make this classic comfort food more accessible for modern kitchens.
Cultural Significance
Potatoes have been a staple across many cultures due to their versatility and comfort-food appeal. Creamy, slow-cooked potatoes appear in family dinners, festive meals, and holiday spreads in the U.S., Europe, and beyond. This dish embodies warmth, home-cooked care, and indulgence without being overly complicated.
Description
Tender, quartered potatoes bathed in a rich, garlicky cream sauce, slowly cooked until perfectly soft. Each bite delivers a creamy, buttery texture with subtle hints of garlic and spice. Optional cheese adds a golden, melty topping that elevates the dish. This side is as visually inviting as it is comforting.
Optional Additions
Herbs: Thyme, rosemary, or chives for extra aroma.
Cheese Variations: Parmesan, mozzarella, or Swiss for unique flavor twists.
Bacon Bits: Sprinkle in the last 30 minutes for a smoky addition.
Spices: Add nutmeg or smoked paprika for a warm, complex flavor.
Tips for Success
Cut potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Don’t stir too frequently; slow cooking is gentle and self-mixing is enough.
For extra creaminess, use half-and-half instead of milk.
If using red potatoes, leaving skins on adds texture and nutrients.
Taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. for 6 servings)
Calories: 220
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 11 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 350 mg
(Values may vary based on ingredients and optional additions.)
Conclusion
This creamy slow-cooker potato recipe is the perfect union of simplicity and indulgence. Its minimal prep and effortless cooking make it a weekday-friendly side, while the luxurious texture and flavor can easily grace a holiday table.
Recommendation
Serve this alongside roasted meats, baked chicken, or a hearty vegetarian main. Its creamy richness pairs beautifully with crisp vegetables or a tangy salad to balance the meal.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While indulgent, this dish can be lightened by using lower-fat dairy, swapping butter for olive oil, or incorporating herbs to boost flavor without extra calories. It proves you can enjoy comfort food without guilt while still nourishing the body.
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