Kentucky Crockpot Potatoes

Kentucky Crockpot Potatoes: A Hearty, Slow-Cooked Comfort Side Dish

Kentucky Crockpot Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—creamy, savory, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners, this slow-cooked dish takes the humble potato to the next level. With minimal prep and maximum taste, it’s no wonder these potatoes have become a Southern favorite.

Ingredients

For 6–8 servings:

6 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a mild kick)
1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Peel and cube the potatoes into roughly equal sizes to ensure even cooking. Chop the onion and mince the garlic so they’re ready to layer in the crockpot.

2. Layer the Crockpot

Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray or lightly butter it. Layer half of the potatoes at the bottom, then sprinkle half of the onions, garlic, salt, pepper, and spices over them. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and seasoning.

3. Add Creamy Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth. Pour this mixture over the potatoes, spreading evenly. Top with small pieces of butter for extra richness.

4. Pour in Broth

Slowly pour chicken or vegetable broth around the sides of the potatoes, being careful not to wash off the cream mixture. The broth will help cook the potatoes evenly and keep them creamy without needing extra stirring.

5. Cook in the Crockpot

Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork. Avoid opening the lid too often to maintain heat and moisture.

6. Add Cheese Topping

About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the potatoes. Cover again and let the cheese melt into a golden, gooey layer.

7. Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving. These potatoes pair perfectly with roast meats, grilled chicken, or even a hearty vegetarian main dish.

Tips for Perfect Kentucky Crockpot Potatoes

Uniform potato size: Ensures even cooking and prevents some pieces from becoming mushy.
Cheese options: For a richer flavor, try sharp cheddar, smoked Gouda, or even a bit of Gruyère.
Make ahead: Assemble the crockpot layers the night before, refrigerate, and cook the next day.
Low-maintenance version: Skip layering and just stir all ingredients together before cooking—the dish will still be creamy and delicious.
Creaminess: For an ultra-rich version, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half before cooking.

Variations

Bacon Lovers: Sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon over the top during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the creamy mixture.
Herb-Infused: Mix fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage into the layers for aromatic flavor.
Vegetable Boost: Add diced carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.

Why This Dish Is a Crowd-Pleaser

Kentucky Crockpot Potatoes are:

Effortless: Minimal prep, then the slow cooker does all the work.
Comforting: Creamy, cheesy, and flavorful—perfect for family dinners or holidays.
Flexible: Easily adapted for vegetarian or spicy variations.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepped in advance and cooked just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Main Dish Pairing: Serve alongside roasted chicken, ham, or beef for a complete meal.
Vegetarian Meal: Pair with a vegetable loaf, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.
Holiday Table: Works beautifully for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinners.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a microwave or oven until heated through. Add a splash of milk or broth to refresh the creaminess.
Freezing: Not recommended for best texture, as potatoes may become slightly grainy.

Conclusion

Kentucky Crockpot Potatoes are the ultimate comfort side dish—rich, creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. The slow-cooking process ensures perfectly tender potatoes every time, while the combination of cheeses, sour cream, and seasoning makes this dish irresistible.