Looking for an easy, flavorful side dish that practically makes itself? These Slow Cooker Ranch Potatoes are the perfect solution. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious, creamy, and savory dish that’s ideal for any meal. The best part? You simply toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. These potatoes are seasoned with ranch seasoning, offering a rich and tangy flavor that everyone will love.
Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner, a holiday gathering, or as a complement to your barbecue, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The slow cooking process ensures that the potatoes become tender and infused with flavor, making every bite a satisfying experience.
With minimal prep time and little to no effort required, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking for a fuss-free yet delicious side.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Effortless Cooking
With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can set this dish in the slow cooker and forget about it while it cooks to perfection.
2. Perfectly Tender Potatoes
The slow cooking process ensures that the baby potatoes turn out incredibly tender and infused with delicious flavors.
3. Full of Flavor
The ranch seasoning mix gives the potatoes a creamy, zesty taste that will elevate your meal without any extra effort.
4. Versatile Side Dish
These ranch potatoes pair well with nearly any main dish—whether you’re serving chicken, steak, or even grilled vegetables.
5. Minimal Ingredients
You don’t need a long list of ingredients to make these potatoes flavorful. With only a handful of pantry staples, you’re ready to go!
Ingredients
- Baby potatoes
- Olive oil
- Ranch seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Variations
1. Cheesy Ranch Potatoes
For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the potatoes during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
2. Spicy Ranch Potatoes
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the ranch seasoning for a spicy kick.
3. Garlic Ranch Potatoes
Stir in some minced garlic or garlic powder along with the ranch seasoning to enhance the flavor profile.
4. Herb Ranch Potatoes
Add a mix of dried herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a more aromatic and earthy flavor.
5. Vegan Ranch Potatoes
Substitute olive oil with a plant-based oil, and ensure your ranch seasoning mix is vegan to keep it plant-based.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by halving the baby potatoes and placing them in your slow cooker.
Step 2: Make the Ranch Seasoning Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil with the ranch seasoning mix. Stir well until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Coat the Potatoes
Pour the ranch seasoning mixture over the halved potatoes. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly in the seasoning.
Step 4: Season to Taste
Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preferences.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook the potatoes on low for 4-5 hours, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the potatoes are done cooking, garnish them with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Uniform Size: Try to cut the potatoes into even-sized halves to ensure they cook evenly.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If you’re making a large batch, consider cooking the potatoes in two layers to ensure they cook properly.
- Check for Tenderness: Test the potatoes with a fork during the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure they’re soft and tender.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or fresh herbs to enhance the flavor.
How to Serve
These Slow Cooker Ranch Potatoes are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef, or pair them with a fresh salad for a lighter meal. They also make a great addition to barbecues and potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover ranch potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Freezing
You can freeze these ranch potatoes if you have leftovers. Allow them to cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Reheating
Reheat the potatoes in the microwave or on the stove with a little olive oil or butter to restore moisture.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes. Just make sure to chop them into smaller chunks for even cooking.
2. Can I use a different seasoning mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other seasoning blends like Italian seasoning or garlic and herb seasoning.
3. Can I cook the potatoes on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook them on high for 2-3 hours, but keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
4. Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve.
5. How can I make these potatoes spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a bit of hot sauce to the seasoning mixture to spice things up.
6. How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
7. Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Yes, you can sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a cheesy ranch potato dish.
8. Can I make these potatoes vegan?
Yes, use olive oil instead of butter and make sure your ranch seasoning mix is vegan.
9. How do I reheat the potatoes?
Reheat the potatoes in the microwave or on the stove with a bit of olive oil or butter to bring back moisture.
10. Can I make these potatoes in the oven instead?
Yes, you can roast them at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, tossing occasionally for even cooking.
Conclusion
These Slow Cooker Ranch Potatoes are a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, you’ll have a tender, flavorful dish that complements any meal. Whether you serve them for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a casual barbecue, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this easy and delicious recipe that will quickly become a favorite!
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Slow Cooker Ranch Potatoes: A Flavorful and Effortless Side Dish
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: : 4 servings
Description
These Slow Cooker Ranch Potatoes are an easy and delicious side dish, perfect for any meal. Baby potatoes are coated in ranch seasoning and olive oil, then cooked low and slow until tender and flavorful. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place the halved baby potatoes in a slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and ranch seasoning mix.
- Pour the olive oil and ranch mixture over the potatoes and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until potatoes are tender.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
Notes
- You can use Yukon gold or red potatoes as an alternative to baby potatoes.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours