If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful side dish that practically cooks itself, these Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes are the perfect solution. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can create a delicious dish that pairs well with almost any meal. The combination of tender baby potatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan cheese is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of baby potatoes, halved or quartered: Baby potatoes are the star of this dish. Their small size and thin skins make them ideal for absorbing flavors without needing to be peeled. Halving or quartering them ensures they cook evenly and soak up all the delicious seasonings.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Olive oil not only helps the seasonings adhere to the potatoes but also adds a rich, fruity flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: This blend of dried herbs typically includes basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme, providing a burst of Mediterranean flavor that makes these potatoes taste like they came straight from an Italian kitchen.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a robust and slightly spicy flavor that pairs beautifully with the earthy potatoes and fragrant herbs.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a savory, nutty flavor and helps create a slight crust on the potatoes as they cook, making each bite deliciously satisfying.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Be sure to taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the finished dish.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Begin by washing the baby potatoes thoroughly. Since the skins are tender and full of nutrients, there’s no need to peel them. After washing, halve or quarter the potatoes, depending on their size. The goal is to have evenly sized pieces so they cook uniformly.
- Season the Potatoes:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved or quartered potatoes with the olive oil, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. It’s a good idea to start with a small amount and adjust later if needed, as the Parmesan cheese can also contribute some saltiness.
- Transfer to the Slow Cooker:
- Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with a bit of olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the seasoned potatoes to the slow cooker, spreading them out evenly to ensure they cook consistently.
- Slow Cook the Potatoes:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the potatoes on the low setting for 4-5 hours or on the high setting for 2-3 hours. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your potato pieces and the specific slow cooker model you use.
- The potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The Parmesan cheese should have melted into the oil, creating a delicious coating on the potatoes.
- Finishing Touches:
- Once the potatoes are fully cooked, give them a gentle stir to ensure they are evenly coated with the melted cheese and seasonings.
- Just before serving, sprinkle the potatoes with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and an added layer of fresh flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- These Italian potatoes are best served hot, straight from the slow cooker. They make an excellent side dish for a variety of main courses, including roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a simple pasta dish.
- If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Veggies: For a more robust side dish, consider adding other vegetables to the slow cooker, such as sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. These can be tossed in with the potatoes and will cook down nicely in the slow cooker.
- Spice It Up: If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture. This will give the potatoes a subtle kick that pairs well with the Italian flavors.
- Cheese Options: While Parmesan cheese adds a lovely nutty flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different taste. Just make sure the cheese you choose has a hard texture that will melt well and adhere to the potatoes.
- Crispier Potatoes: If you prefer your potatoes with a bit of a crispy texture, you can transfer them to a baking sheet after slow cooking and broil them in the oven for 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Slow Cooker Italian Potatoes are a versatile and delicious side dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight family dinner or hosting a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The combination of tender baby potatoes, aromatic herbs, and savory Parmesan cheese creates a dish that is both comforting and elegant. Serve these potatoes alongside your favorite main courses and enjoy the easy, flavorful satisfaction they bring to the table.
