Crock Pot Roasted New Potatoes With Garlic and Herbs

The aroma of roasted potatoes, kissed with garlic and rosemary, always transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She had a knack for making the simplest ingredients taste extraordinary, and her secret weapon was often her trusty slow cooker. I remember one Thanksgiving, the oven was overflowing, and she calmly placed a pot of new potatoes, seasoned simply with herbs from her garden, into the crock pot. Hours later, they emerged perfectly tender, their skins slightly wrinkled and infused with the earthy fragrance of garlic and rosemary. That year, those unassuming potatoes stole the show, proving that delicious doesn’t always require complexity.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
• Total Time: 2.75 to 3.75 hours
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 6 servings
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

• 2 lbs small waxy boiling potatoes (Yukon Gold, baby new red, or white potatoes work well)
• 4-5 garlic cloves, to your taste, peeled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt or ¼ teaspoon coarse sea salt
• 1 pinch dried thyme

Equipment Needed

• Slow Cooker (Crock Pot)
• Sharp Knife
• Spoon

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the potatoes. Yukon Gold, baby new red, or white potatoes work particularly well in this recipe because of their waxy texture. Give the potatoes a thorough scrub under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. It’s not necessary to peel them, as the skins add flavor and texture to the finished dish. Drain the scrubbed potatoes well.
2. Next, prepare the garlic. Peel 4 to 5 garlic cloves, adjusting the amount to your personal preference. Whole cloves work perfectly, as they will soften and mellow during the slow cooking process, infusing the potatoes with their savory aroma.
3. Place the scrubbed and drained potatoes into the slow cooker. Add the peeled garlic cloves to the potatoes.
4. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the potatoes and garlic. The olive oil will help to coat the potatoes and allow the herbs and spices to adhere evenly, creating a flavorful crust as they cook.
5. Sprinkle the potatoes with ½ teaspoon of dried rosemary, ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt (or coarse sea salt), and 1 pinch of dried thyme. These simple herbs complement the earthy flavor of the potatoes and the pungent aroma of the garlic.
6. Using a spoon or your hands, gently toss the potatoes and garlic to ensure they are lightly coated with the olive oil, herbs, and salt. This step is crucial for distributing the flavor evenly throughout the dish.
7. Spread the potatoes out as evenly as possible in the crock of the slow cooker. Avoid overcrowding the crock, as this can prevent the potatoes from cooking evenly. A single layer is ideal.
8. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on High heat until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a sharp knife, which typically takes between 2 ½ to 3 ½ hours. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker model, so it’s important to check for doneness periodically. If the potatoes are still firm after 2 ½ hours, continue cooking in 30-minute intervals until they reach the desired tenderness.
9. Once the potatoes are tender, serve them immediately. They are best enjoyed hot, when their flavors are at their peak.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Choosing the Right Potatoes: For best results, use small, waxy boiling potatoes like Yukon Gold, baby red potatoes, or white potatoes. These varieties hold their shape well during slow cooking and have a creamy texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Overcrowding the slow cooker can lead to uneven cooking. If necessary, cook the potatoes in batches to ensure they are all properly exposed to the heat.
• Customize the Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices to customize the flavor of these potatoes. Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill can be added during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a brighter flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat.
• Garlic Lovers, Rejoice: For a more intense garlic flavor, add a few extra cloves or even a head of roasted garlic to the slow cooker.
• Browning Boost: If you desire a more browned exterior, you can transfer the cooked potatoes to a baking sheet and broil them for a few minutes before serving. Watch them closely to prevent burning.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Crock Pot Roasted New Potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. They are delicious served alongside grilled chicken, roasted meats, or fish. They also make a great addition to vegetarian meals, such as lentil soup or veggie burgers.

For an attractive presentation, garnish the potatoes with fresh chopped parsley or chives before serving. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also enhance their flavor.

Leftover potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them until heated through, or warm them in a skillet with a little olive oil. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

These potatoes are not recommended for freezing, as the texture may become mushy upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	155 kcal	8%
Total Fat	2.4 g	3%
Saturated Fat	0.4 g	2%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	79 mg	3%
Total Carbohydrate	31 g	10%
Dietary Fiber	3 g	12%
Sugars	1 g	2%
Protein	3 g	6%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Herb Variations: Instead of rosemary and thyme, try using other dried herbs like oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning. A combination of fresh herbs, such as parsley, rosemary, and thyme, can also be used for a more vibrant flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat. Smoked paprika can also add a smoky flavor.
• Lemon & Garlic: Add the zest of one lemon and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Vegan Parmesan: Sprinkle nutritional yeast over the potatoes during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a cheesy, vegan-friendly flavor.
• Sweet Potatoes: For a sweeter variation, substitute sweet potatoes for the waxy potatoes.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen potatoes in this recipe?
A: While you can use frozen potatoes, the texture may be slightly softer than if you use fresh potatoes. Thaw the potatoes before adding them to the slow cooker and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Yes, you can add other vegetables like onions, carrots, or bell peppers to the slow cooker along with the potatoes. Be sure to cut the vegetables into similar sizes so they cook evenly.

Q: How do I know when the potatoes are done?
A: The potatoes are done when they are easily pierced with a sharp knife. They should be tender and slightly yielding when pressed.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and herbs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them. Simply add them to the slow cooker when you are ready to start cooking.

Q: What if my potatoes are not tender after 3 ½ hours?
A: Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker. If your potatoes are not tender after 3 ½ hours, continue cooking them in 30-minute intervals until they reach the desired tenderness.

Final Thoughts

These Crock Pot Roasted New Potatoes with Garlic and Herbs are a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when treated with care and cooked low and slow, can create extraordinary flavors. This recipe is a weeknight champion, freeing you up to focus on other aspects of dinner while the slow cooker works its magic. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, experiment with different herbs and spices, and make it your own. And don’t hesitate to share your feedback – I’d love to hear about your culinary adventures! Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and your favorite protein for a complete and satisfying meal.