Slow Cooker Potato Cooking Times: Perfect Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Potatoes, and More

There's a reason why potatoes are a kitchen staple – they're just so darn versatile! You can bake them, roast them, mash them, fry them, you name it! And what makes them even more irresistible? Cooking them in a slow cooker! It's like magic, chuck everything in, switch it on, and forget about it until dinner time.

I've been a slow cooker enthusiast for years, and let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the ease and deliciousness of slow-cooked potatoes. But getting those perfect results requires a little know-how about cooking times. Different potato dishes require different amounts of time in the slow cooker, and getting it right makes all the difference between a delicious meal and a mushy mess.

So, grab a comfy chair, and let me share my tried-and-tested tips on how to cook potatoes in a slow cooker, from fluffy mashed potatoes to crispy roasted potatoes, and everything in between.

(Part 1) The Basics: Understanding Potatoes and Slow Cookers

Before we dive into specific recipes and cooking times, let's get grounded in the basics. Not all potatoes are created equal. Some are better suited for mashing, while others are ideal for roasting, and it all comes down to their starch content and texture. Even the size and shape of your potatoes can affect how long they take to cook.

potato types:

Let's break down the potato types I use most often:

1. Floury Potatoes: Think maris piper, king edward, or King Edward. These are your go-to potatoes for mashing, roasting, and baking. They have a high starch content, which gives them a fluffy texture, and they're quite dry, so they hold their shape well after cooking. Perfect for those creamy mashed potatoes or crispy roast potatoes.
2. waxy potatoes: Think Charlotte, New Potato, or Anya. These potatoes are lower in starch and have a higher moisture content. They're best for boiling and salads because they stay firm and don't disintegrate easily.
3. all-purpose potatoes: Think Desiree, Rooster, or Red Bliss. These potatoes fall somewhere in between floury and waxy. They're great for most potato dishes, including roasting, boiling, and mashing. They're quite versatile, so you can't go wrong with them.

Slow Cooker Size and Settings:

The size of your slow cooker and its settings can also affect cooking times. If you have a large slow cooker, you may need to adjust the time accordingly, and vice versa.

1. Low Setting: This setting is great for longer cooking times, typically 6-8 hours or more. Perfect for dishes that need a slow and gentle cook, like mashed potatoes or potato soup.
2. High Setting: This setting is ideal for shorter cooking times, usually 3-4 hours. Great for when you're short on time, or for recipes that need a bit of a speedier cook, like roasted potatoes.

(Part 2) Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes: A Dream Come True

There's nothing like a bowl of creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes, and slow-cooked mashed potatoes are simply divine. They're so easy to make, and the slow cooker does all the work for you. It's like having your own personal potato chef!

Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes:

1. Choose Your Potatoes: I always use floury potatoes for mashed potatoes. They're the best for creating that really creamy texture we all love.
2. Prep Your Potatoes: Wash and peel your potatoes, then cut them into chunks. I usually try to make the chunks roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
3. Add to the Slow Cooker: Place the potatoes in the slow cooker and add enough water to cover them. Add a pinch of salt and a splash of milk. The milk helps to create a creamier texture, and the salt enhances the flavour.
4. Cook on Low: Cook your potatoes on low heat for 6-8 hours. I usually check them after 4 hours to make sure they're not getting too mushy. If you find they are, you can drain off some of the water and add a bit more milk.
5. Mash: Once the potatoes are cooked through, drain off any excess water and mash them until they're smooth. Use a potato masher, a hand mixer, or even a fork.
6. Add Flavor: Now for the fun part! Add butter, milk, sour cream, or whatever you like to your mashed potatoes. I often add a dollop of butter and a splash of cream for extra richness.

And that's it! You've got a delicious bowl of slow-cooked mashed potatoes, perfect for any meal. Serve them with your favorite roast, or simply enjoy them with a sprinkle of chives or a dollop of sour cream.

(Part 3) Roasted Potatoes: A Crispy Treat

Roasted potatoes, oh, roasted potatoes. They're crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, and they go with absolutely everything. A slow cooker can achieve those perfectly roasted potatoes without needing to keep an eye on the oven, giving you more time to relax.

slow cooker roasted Potatoes:

1. Choose Your Potatoes: For roasted potatoes, I use floury potatoes or all-purpose potatoes. They hold their shape well and get nice and crispy.
2. Prep Your Potatoes: Wash and cut the potatoes into roughly one-inch cubes.
3. Season Your Potatoes: Toss the potato cubes in olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. I love using rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
4. Cook on Low: Spread the potatoes in a single layer in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Make sure they're not overcrowded, or they won't cook evenly.
5. Flip and Continue Cooking: After 4 hours, I usually give the potatoes a good stir to ensure they cook evenly. Then, I continue cooking them until they're golden brown and crispy. If you want them extra crispy, you can switch to the "high" setting for the last 30 minutes of cooking.

For a fun twist, try adding different herbs and spices to your roasted potatoes. Rosemary and thyme are classic choices, but you can also experiment with paprika, cumin, or even chili powder for a bit of heat.

(Part 4) Beyond the Basics: Slow Cooker potato salads and More

It's not just about mashing and roasting, you know! Slow cookers are fantastic for potato salads, too. The slow cooker creates a warm and flavorful base for your salad, and the potatoes get nice and soft.

Slow Cooker Potato Salad:

1. Choose Your Potatoes: For a potato salad, you'll want to use waxy potatoes or all-purpose potatoes. They'll stay firm and not disintegrate when mixed with other ingredients.
2. Prep Your Potatoes: Wash and cut the potatoes into chunks.
3. Cook Your Potatoes: Place the potatoes in the slow cooker and add enough water to cover them. Add a pinch of salt and a splash of vinegar. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. The vinegar adds a tangy flavour to the potatoes and helps to prevent them from becoming mushy.
4. Make the Dressing: While the potatoes are cooking, prepare your favorite potato salad dressing. I love a classic mayonnaise and mustard dressing, but you can use any kind you like.
5. Assemble Your Salad: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and let them cool slightly. Then, combine them with the dressing and any other ingredients you like, such as chopped celery, onion, or hard-boiled eggs.

You can also use a slow cooker to make delicious potato soups, stews, and chilis. Just add your potatoes to the slow cooker along with other ingredients, and let them cook until they're tender.

(Part 5) Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Potatoes

Now that you know the basics, here are some of my best tips for making perfect slow cooker potatoes:

Tips:

1. Don't Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Give your potatoes plenty of space to cook evenly. If you're making a large batch, consider using two slow cookers.
2. Add Liquid: Potatoes need moisture to cook properly. Add enough water or broth to cover the potatoes. You can always add more liquid if needed.
3. Check the Temperature: To ensure your potatoes are cooked through, check them with a fork. They should be tender and easy to pierce.
4. Season Generously: Potatoes are like sponges for flavor. Don't be shy with the salt, pepper, and herbs.
5. Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: Get creative with your potato dishes! Try different herbs, spices, and ingredients. The possibilities are endless.

(Part 6) Time is of the Essence: Slow Cooker Potato Cooking Times

Right, let's get into the nitty-gritty of those cooking times, shall we? These are just guidelines, so always check your potatoes to make sure they're cooked through.

Slow Cooker Potato Cooking Times:

As I said before, these are just estimates. The actual cooking time will vary depending on the size and type of potatoes you use, the size of your slow cooker, and its settings.

(Part 7) Slow Cooker potato recipes: Some of My Favourites

I've got a ton of slow cooker potato recipes I love, but here are a few of my go-to favorites:

Slow Cooker Cheesy Potato Bake:

This cheesy potato bake is a real crowd-pleaser. It's creamy, cheesy, and perfect for a cozy evening meal.

1. Ingredients:
• 2 pounds floury potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste
2. Instructions:
• Place potatoes in the slow cooker. Add chicken broth, butter, sour cream, and salt and pepper.
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
• Cook for another 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Top with green onions before serving.

Slow Cooker Potato and Sausage Soup:

This hearty potato and sausage soup is perfect for a chilly day. It's packed with flavor and is surprisingly easy to make.

1. Ingredients:
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 pounds floury potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
2. Instructions:
• In the slow cooker, combine the sausage, onion, carrots, celery, chicken broth, potatoes, tomatoes, thyme, and pepper.
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Season with salt to taste.
• Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Slow Cooker Potato and Bacon Hash:

This classic potato and bacon hash gets a slow cooker makeover. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

1. Ingredients:
• 1 pound bacon, chopped
• 2 pounds floury potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
2. Instructions:
• In the slow cooker, cook bacon until crisp. Remove bacon from the slow cooker and set aside.
• Add potatoes, onion, green pepper, and red pepper to the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper.
• Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until potatoes are tender.
• Stir in the cooked bacon.

Just remember to adjust the cooking times based on the size and type of potatoes you're using, and always check to make sure they're cooked through.

(Part 8) FAQs: Your Potato-Related Questions Answered

Now, I know you're probably thinking, "What if I use a different type of potato?" or "Can I add other ingredients?". So, let's get some of your potato-related questions answered.

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen potatoes in the slow cooker? Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the potatoes completely before adding them to the slow cooker. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
2. Can I add other ingredients to my slow cooker potatoes? Absolutely! You can add any vegetables, herbs, spices, or meat you like. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For example, if you're adding meat, it may need to cook longer than the potatoes.
3. What if my potatoes are getting too mushy? If your potatoes are getting too mushy, you can try draining off some of the excess liquid. You can also switch to a higher setting for the last 30 minutes of cooking to help them crisp up.
4. Can I cook potatoes in a slow cooker on high? Yes, you can! Just remember that they'll cook much faster, so you'll need to keep a closer eye on them.
5. How long can I keep slow cooker potatoes in the fridge? Slow cooker potatoes can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat them thoroughly before serving.

I hope this article has helped you to understand the basics of slow cooker potato cooking. Now go forth and create some delicious potato dishes!