Crock Pot Potato Cooking Times: Perfect Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Potatoes, and More

Ah, the humble spud! There's something so comforting about potatoes, isn't there? They're versatile, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. And when you're talking about convenience and ease, a slow cooker – or a crock pot, as we Brits often call it – is a real game-changer. I've been using my trusty Crock Pot for years, and I've learned a thing or two about cooking potatoes in it. From fluffy mashed potatoes to crispy roasted potatoes, the possibilities are endless. But let's be honest, sometimes those cooking times can be a bit of a mystery. That's why I've put together this guide, packed with tips and tricks for nailing those perfect potato dishes in your Crock Pot.

(Part 1) Crock Pot Potato Basics: Getting Started

Before we dive into specific recipes, let's talk about some general guidelines for cooking potatoes in your Crock Pot. These will help you get a good foundation for understanding the basics.

choosing the right potatoes

Not all potatoes are created equal! For different dishes, you'll want to choose the right spud.

Think of it like this: starchy potatoes, like Russets or Yukon Golds, are like the fluffy, cuddly teddy bears of the potato world. They're great for mashed potatoes because they break down nicely, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Then you've got your waxy potatoes, like Red Bliss or Fingerling potatoes. These are like the sporty, energetic potatoes - they hold their shape well and are perfect for roasting because they get that lovely crispy exterior.

And for potato salad, well, you can use either kind depending on your mood. Starchy potatoes will give you a creamy salad, while waxy potatoes will result in a firmer salad. It's all about what you prefer!

1. Mashed Potatoes: For creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes, you'll want starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They'll break down nicely in the Crock Pot, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2. Roasted Potatoes: For crispy roasted potatoes, go for waxy potatoes like Red Bliss or Fingerling potatoes. They'll hold their shape better and develop a lovely crispy exterior.
3. Potato Salad: For potato salad, you can use either starchy or waxy potatoes, depending on your preference. For a creamy salad, go with starchy potatoes. For a firmer salad, choose waxy potatoes.

Preparing the Potatoes

Before tossing your potatoes into the Crock Pot, give them a bit of prep. This'll ensure even cooking and prevent any nasty surprises.

1. Wash and Scrub: Give those potatoes a good scrub under running water to remove any dirt or debris. You wouldn't want to be eating any unwanted surprises, would you?
2. Cut into Uniform Pieces: For quicker cooking, cut the potatoes into smaller pieces. The size will influence cooking time. If you want a quicker cook, go for smaller pieces. If you're not in a rush, you can leave them a bit bigger. But remember, uniform size is key for even cooking.
3. Optional: Peel or Leave the Skin On: It's up to you whether you peel the potatoes or leave the skins on. For mashed potatoes, peeling is usually preferred for a smoother texture. For roasted potatoes, leaving the skins on adds a bit of rustic charm and some extra nutrients.

Crock Pot Size and Cooking Time

The size of your Crock Pot will definitely affect cooking time. A smaller Crock Pot will cook potatoes faster than a larger one. As a general rule, allow about 2-3 hours on low heat or 1-2 hours on high heat for potatoes to become tender.

But hey, it's always best to check for tenderness! You can do this by inserting a fork into a potato. If it goes in easily, they're done! Don't overcook those spuds. We want them tender, not mushy!

(Part 2) Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes: A Creamy Dream

Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food, and they're so easy to make in the Crock Pot. The slow cooking process yields a beautifully creamy texture, making it a real crowd-pleaser. It's like a hug in a bowl, but better.

Ingredients

1. 2 pounds Russet or yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
2. 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
3. 1/4 cup butter
4. 1/2 cup milk
5. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Place the cubed potatoes and broth in your Crock Pot. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. This will help season the potatoes as they cook.
2. Cook on low heat for 2-3 hours or on high heat for 1-2 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don't overcook. You can always add a bit more time if needed.
3. While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add the milk and heat until warm. This will make the mashed potatoes even creamier and smoother.
4. Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or a hand-held immersion blender to mash them until smooth. You can also use a fork if you prefer a chunkier texture.
5. Gradually stir in the warm butter and milk mixture, adding more if needed to achieve your desired consistency. You want a nice creamy texture, but not too thin or too thick.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. It's always a good idea to taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

You can get really creative with your mashed potatoes. Try adding some herbs like chives or parsley, or even some garlic powder for a bit of extra flavor. Don't be afraid to experiment! The sky's the limit when it comes to mashed potato flavour.

(Part 3) crock pot roasted Potatoes: Crispy and Delicious

Who doesn't love crispy roasted potatoes? They're a fantastic side dish for any meal, and the Crock Pot does a wonderful job of achieving that perfectly golden-brown exterior. The slow cooking process creates a crispy outside and a fluffy inside. It's truly the best of both worlds.

Ingredients

1. 2 pounds Red Bliss or Fingerling potatoes, scrubbed and cut into bite-sized pieces
2. 1/4 cup olive oil
3. 1 tablespoon dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
4. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper. This will ensure the potatoes are coated evenly and will help them brown nicely.
2. Pour the potato mixture into your Crock Pot, spreading them out in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the Crock Pot. If you have too many potatoes, you may need to cook them in batches.
3. Cook on low heat for 4-5 hours, or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and golden brown. Check on them periodically to make sure they're not getting too dry. If they start to dry out, you can add a little bit of water or broth to the Crock Pot.
4. If the potatoes seem a bit dry after cooking, add a splash of water or broth to the Crock Pot and continue cooking for another 30 minutes. This will help rehydrate the potatoes and make them nice and moist.

For even crispier potatoes, you can transfer them to a baking sheet after cooking in the Crock Pot and broil them for a few minutes under the broiler until they're perfectly golden. This is a great way to add that extra bit of crispness if you're really craving it.

(Part 4) Crock Pot Potato Salad: A Cool and Creamy Side

Potato salad is a classic summer picnic staple, and it's surprisingly easy to make in the Crock Pot. Just think of it as a delicious set-and-forget side dish. It's perfect for those hot days when you don't want to be stuck in the kitchen. Plus, the Crock Pot does all the work for you, so you can relax and enjoy the sunshine.

Ingredients

1. 2 pounds starchy potatoes, peeled and cubed
2. 1/2 cup mayonnaise
3. 1/4 cup sour cream
4. 1/4 cup chopped onion
5. 2 tablespoons chopped celery
6. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Place the cubed potatoes in your Crock Pot and add enough water to cover them. Add a pinch of salt. This will help the potatoes cook evenly and prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the Crock Pot.
2. Cook on low heat for 2-3 hours or on high heat for 1-2 hours, until the potatoes are tender. Make sure to check for tenderness with a fork. You don't want them to be mushy!
3. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. You don't want to add them to the dressing while they're still hot, as this can make the dressing melt and become runny.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, onion, celery, and mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the amount of mayonnaise and sour cream to your liking. For a tangier salad, use more Dijon mustard.
5. Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, add them to the mayonnaise mixture and gently stir to combine. Don't overmix, as this can make the potatoes mushy.
6. Refrigerate the potato salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will give it a chance to chill and allow the flavors to meld. The longer you let it sit, the better it will taste!

Potato salad is a blank canvas for creativity. You can add all sorts of yummy additions like hard-boiled eggs, pickles, bacon, or even some fresh herbs. Get creative and make it your own!

(Part 5) Crock Pot potato soup: A Warm and Cozy Comfort

Potato soup is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, and the Crock Pot makes it so easy to throw together. The slow cooking process makes for a beautifully creamy soup. It's like a hug in a bowl, but with potatoes!

Ingredients

1. 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2. 1 large onion, chopped
3. 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
4. 1/2 cup milk or cream
5. 1/4 cup butter
6. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Place the cubed potatoes, onion, broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper in your Crock Pot. This will help season the soup as it cooks.
2. Cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender. Check the potatoes with a fork to make sure they're cooked through.
3. Once the potatoes are cooked, use a hand-held immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. You can also use a regular blender, but be careful when blending hot soup. Always vent the blender and use a tea towel to cover the lid to prevent splattering.
4. Stir in the milk or cream and butter. This will add richness and creaminess to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. It's always best to taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

You can add all sorts of delicious toppings to your potato soup. Try some chopped chives, crispy bacon, or a dollop of sour cream. You can even add a sprinkle of paprika or a squeeze of lemon juice for a bit of brightness. Get creative and have fun with it!

(Part 6) Crock Pot sweet potatoes: A Deliciously Sweet Treat

sweet potatoes are a naturally sweet and flavorful treat, and they're absolutely perfect for slow cooking in your Crock Pot. You can enjoy them as a side dish or even use them in desserts. The slow cooking process brings out their natural sweetness and creates a delicious caramelized flavor.

Ingredients

1. 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2. 1/4 cup butter
3. 1/4 cup brown sugar
4. 1/4 cup orange juice
5. 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
6. 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
7. Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Place the cubed sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in your Crock Pot. This combination of flavors will create a delicious sweet and savory dish.
2. Cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized. The sweet potatoes will release their natural juices, which will create a delicious sauce.
3. If you want a smoother consistency, use a potato masher or hand-held immersion blender to mash the sweet potatoes after cooking. This will create a creamy and smooth sweet potato purée.

You can serve sweet potatoes as a side dish or use them in pies, cakes, or even muffins. The sweet and savory flavors blend perfectly. They're a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.

(Part 7) Crock Pot Potato Casserole: A Hearty and Comforting Dish

Crock Pot potato casserole is a real crowd-pleaser, especially on cold nights. It's a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for feeding a family. The slow cooking process creates a creamy and cheesy casserole that's sure to please everyone.

Ingredients

1. 2 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
2. 1/2 cup chopped onion
3. 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
4. 1 cup milk
5. 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6. 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In your Crock Pot, layer the sliced potatoes, onion, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and cheese. This layering technique will ensure that the casserole cooks evenly and that the cheese melts perfectly.
2. Sprinkle with parsley and season with salt and pepper. The parsley adds a fresh and vibrant flavor to the casserole.
3. Cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted. Check the casserole periodically to make sure the cheese isn't burning.
4. You can even add a crunchy topping to your potato casserole. Before cooking, sprinkle with breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for a bit of extra texture. This will add a satisfying crunch to the casserole.

This casserole is incredibly versatile. You can add other veggies, like mushrooms or green beans, or even some cooked ground beef or chicken for a complete meal. It's a great way to use up leftover ingredients. You can even use different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or Colby, to change up the flavor.

(Part 8) Tips and Tricks for Crock Pot Potato Perfection

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you achieve potato perfection in your Crock Pot.

1. Don't Overcrowd the Crock Pot

Give those potatoes some breathing room! If you overcrowd the Crock Pot, they won't cook evenly and may not get that crispy texture you're after. It's best to cook in batches if you have a large amount of potatoes. This will ensure that each potato has enough space to cook properly.

2. Check for Tenderness

Keep a close eye on your potatoes, as different Crock Pots can have varying heat levels. You can use a fork to check for tenderness. If it goes in easily, they're ready! Don't overcook those spuds, as they'll become mushy.

3. Add a Little Liquid

If you're making roasted potatoes, a little bit of water or broth can help create steam and keep them from drying out. Just add a splash towards the end of cooking if needed. This will help to rehydrate the potatoes and create a moist and tender texture.

4. Season Liberally

Don't be shy with the seasonings! Salt, pepper, herbs, and spices will really enhance the flavor of your potatoes. You can even get creative and experiment with different combinations. A little bit of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika can go a long way in adding flavor to your potatoes.

5. Don't Be Afraid to Experiment

There are endless possibilities when it comes to cooking potatoes in the Crock Pot. Don't be afraid to try new things! Add different vegetables, herbs, or spices to create your own signature dishes. You can even try adding different types of cheese or meat to your potato dishes.

(Part 9) FAQs: Common Questions about Crock Pot Potatoes

You know what they say, "Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back." So, let's answer some common questions about cooking potatoes in the Crock Pot.

1. Can I Cook Potatoes in the Crock Pot Overnight?

It's generally not recommended to cook potatoes overnight in the Crock Pot. They're likely to become mushy and overcooked. However, you can certainly cook them for a longer period of time, up to 6-8 hours on low heat, if you're planning ahead. Just make sure to check them periodically to ensure they're not overcooked.

2. What Happens if I Overcook Potatoes in the Crock Pot?

Overcooked potatoes can become mushy and lose their flavor. If you accidentally overcook them, there's not much you can do to salvage them. You can try adding a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken them up, but they'll likely have a less desirable texture.

3. Can I Cook Frozen Potatoes in the Crock Pot?

It's not ideal to cook frozen potatoes directly in the Crock Pot. They may take longer to cook and could result in an uneven texture. It's best to thaw them first before cooking. This will ensure that the potatoes cook evenly and that you don't end up with some parts that are raw and some parts that are overcooked.

4. What Kind of Crock Pot is Best for Cooking Potatoes?

Any Crock Pot will work for cooking potatoes, but I find a larger Crock Pot is more convenient for cooking larger batches. It also gives you more room to spread out the potatoes for roasting. You can even get a Crock Pot with a built-in timer, so you don't have to worry about setting an alarm.

5. What are Some Healthy Ways to Cook Potatoes in the Crock Pot?

Cooking potatoes in the Crock Pot can be a healthy choice! Here are some tips:

1. Use a Healthy Fat: Olive oil is a great option for roasting potatoes, and you can also use avocado oil or coconut oil. These oils are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants.
2. Keep the Skin On: Potato skins are packed with fiber and nutrients, so leaving them on is a great way to boost the nutritional value of your potatoes.
3. Don't Add Too Much Salt: While a pinch of salt is good for flavor, avoid adding too much. You can also use sea salt or Himalayan salt, which are lower in sodium.

And there you have it, a guide to Crock Pot potato cooking that's filled with tips, tricks, and delicious recipes. So grab those spuds and get cooking! You'll be amazed at how versatile and delicious potatoes can be in your Crock Pot.

(Part 10) Additional Crock Pot potato recipes

Here are a few additional Crock Pot potato recipes to get your creative juices flowing.

1. Crock Pot Cheesy Potato Bake

This hearty and cheesy potato bake is perfect for a cozy night in. The slow cooking process creates a creamy and bubbly potato casserole that's sure to please everyone.

Ingredients

1. 2 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
2. 1/2 cup chopped onion
3. 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
4. 1 cup milk
5. 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6. 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In your Crock Pot, layer the sliced potatoes, onion, cream of chicken soup, milk, and cheese.
2. Sprinkle with parsley and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted.

2. Crock Pot Potato and Sausage Hash

This delicious and hearty potato and sausage hash is perfect for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. The slow cooking process creates a flavorful and tender hash that's perfect for a cold morning.

Ingredients

1. 1 pound breakfast sausage, casings removed
2. 2 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
3. 1 large onion, chopped
4. 1 green bell pepper, chopped
5. 1/2 cup chicken broth
6. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In your Crock Pot, combine the sausage, potatoes, onion, and bell pepper.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the sausage is cooked through.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!

3. Crock Pot BBQ Potato Skins

These loaded potato skins are a fun and easy appetizer for a party or game day. The slow cooking process creates tender potatoes that are perfect for stuffing with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

1. 4 large Russet potatoes
2. 1/4 cup olive oil
3. 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4. 1/4 cup chopped bacon
5. 1/4 cup sour cream
6. 1/4 cup chopped green onions
7. barbecue sauce, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Scrub the potatoes and cut them in half lengthwise.
3. Scoop out the flesh from the potatoes, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
4. Brush the potato skins with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
5. While the potato skins are baking, combine the potato flesh, cheddar cheese, bacon, and sour cream in a bowl.
6. Once the potato skins are cooked, fill them with the potato mixture and top with green onions and barbecue sauce.
7. Serve immediately.

Get creative and add your favorite toppings! Some other great options include jalapenos, salsa, and guacamole.

So go on, get your Crock Pot out and start experimenting! You'll be surprised at how versatile and delicious potatoes can be. Happy cooking!