Elevate your side dish game with our delectable Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes recipe! This irresistible dish combines tender red bliss potatoes with aromatic herbs, creamy cheese, and a hint of paprika for a flavor-packed sensation that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or planning a cozy night in, this crowd-pleasing recipe is sure to impress. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb adaptations to ensure everyone can enjoy this cheesy delight.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds small red bliss potatoes, cut into quarters
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash the small red bliss potatoes and cut them into quarters, ensuring they are similar in size for even cooking.
- Season the Potatoes:
- In a large bowl, combine the quartered potatoes with dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, melted butter, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasonings.
- Layer in Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the seasoned potatoes to the slow cooker, spreading them out in an even layer.
- Cook on Low:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the potatoes on low heat for 4 to 5 hours, or until they are fork-tender.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the cooked potatoes in the slow cooker, covering them evenly with a generous layer of cheese.
- Melt Cheese:
- Replace the lid on the slow cooker and allow the residual heat to melt the cheese for 5 to 10 minutes, or until it is gooey and melted.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the lid from the slow cooker.
- Serve the cheesy potatoes hot, garnished with additional herbs or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For a variation, you can use different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley to customize the flavor profile of the potatoes.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or mozzarella, for a unique twist on this classic dish.
- Add chopped cooked bacon, diced onions, or minced garlic to the potatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace the small red bliss potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative.
- Use keto-friendly herbs and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to season the cauliflower.
- Ensure the shredded cheddar cheese is keto-friendly and contains minimal carbohydrates.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto adaptations mentioned above.
- Limit the amount of butter used or use a keto-friendly butter substitute such as ghee.
- Serve the cheesy cauliflower with a side of grilled chicken or steak for a satisfying low-carb meal.
In conclusion, our Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes recipe is a testament to the irresistible allure of creamy, cheesy comfort food. With its tender potatoes, aromatic herbs, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed as a standalone meal, these cheesy potatoes are guaranteed to bring warmth and satisfaction to any occasion. So, fire up your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a comforting culinary experience with this delicious recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe? A: Yes! While small red bliss potatoes are preferred for their creamy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes if desired. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of potato used.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the seasoned potatoes in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Simply transfer them to the slow cooker and follow the instructions when you’re ready to enjoy.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of the cheesy potatoes? A: Yes, leftovers of the cheesy potatoes can be frozen for future enjoyment. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers or bags. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Q: How can I make this recipe more kid-friendly? A: Kids will love the cheesy goodness of this dish! You can customize the seasonings to suit their taste preferences or add their favorite toppings such as chopped ham or cooked broccoli. Additionally, you can involve them in the cooking process by letting them help sprinkle the cheese over the potatoes before melting.
