Robyn’s Crock Pot Herb Roasted Potatoes: A Hug in a Bowl
There are certain dishes that, with just a whiff, transport me back to simpler times. For me, those are the potatoes. Not just any potatoes, but the kind that have been coaxed into tenderness, infused with the comforting aroma of herbs and butter, and cooked with a patience that only a slow cooker can provide. I remember my Aunt Robyn making these for our family gatherings, especially during those crisp autumn weekends when the air turned nostalgic. The way the steam would rise from the crock pot, carrying that irresistible scent, was always the signal that good food and even better company were imminent. It’s more than a recipe; it’s a memory etched in butter and herbs, a testament to how humble ingredients, prepared with care, can create something truly magical.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Yield: Serves 4-6
- Dietary Type: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon instant minced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 4 tablespoons butter
Equipment Needed
- Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring Cup
- Stirring Utensil
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your potatoes. Chop them into half moons. The easiest way to achieve this is to slice each potato in half lengthwise, and then slice each of those halves into pieces. Aim for a consistent size to ensure even cooking.
- Carefully place the chopped potatoes into your crock pot.
- Next, add the 1/4 cup of water to the crock pot.
- Now, it’s time to layer in the flavor. Sprinkle the salt, pepper, garlic powder, instant minced onion, dried dill, Italian seasoning, and dried parsley evenly over the potatoes.
- Using a stirring utensil, gently stir the potatoes to ensure the herbs and seasonings are well distributed throughout. You want every piece of potato to get a taste of that delicious blend.
- To introduce richness and create a wonderfully tender texture, add the 4 tablespoons of butter. Place these butter pieces in separate spots on top of the potatoes. Don’t worry about them melting immediately; they will do so as the cooking progresses.
- Secure the lid on your crock pot.
- Cook on the low setting for 5 hours, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
A Note on Cooking Time: It’s important to acknowledge that crock pot cooking times can vary. While the recipe calls for 5 hours on low, it might take less time to cook depending on your specific crock pot and the size of your potato pieces. I’ve often found that they are ready sooner than the full 5 hours. Conversely, I’ve also let them cook for up to 8 hours, and they remain wonderfully delicious, just that much more tender. The key is to check for tenderness rather than strictly adhering to the clock, especially if you are home to monitor.
Expert Tips & Tricks
For those who like to get a head start, the potatoes can be chopped and placed in the crock pot insert the night before. Cover the insert with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning, simply add the water, seasonings, and butter before starting the cooking cycle. This makes for an even easier weeknight meal. If you find you’re short on time or simply prefer the intensity of fresh herbs, you can substitute some of the dried herbs with fresh. A good rule of thumb is to use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried. For instance, if a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, use about 3 teaspoons of fresh, finely chopped parsley. Add fresh herbs towards the end of the cooking time to preserve their bright flavor and color.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
These Robyn’s Crock Pot Herb Roasted Potatoes are incredibly versatile and make a fantastic side dish for almost any meal. They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or a hearty vegetarian stew. For a delightful presentation, transfer the cooked potatoes to a serving bowl, ensuring you scoop up all the flavorful juices from the bottom of the crock pot. A final garnish of fresh parsley or chives can add a pop of color and freshness.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat, covered, or microwave them until heated through. While they are still delicious reheated, the texture might be slightly softer than when they were freshly made. I generally avoid freezing these potatoes as the texture can become quite mushy upon thawing.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 353.5 kcal | |
| Calories from Fat | ||
| Total Fat | 11.8 g | 18% |
| Saturated Fat | 7.4 g | 36% |
| Cholesterol | 30.5 mg | 10% |
| Sodium | 703.8 mg | 29% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 57.1 g | 19% |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.3 g | 29% |
| Sugars | 2.6 g | 10% |
| Protein | 6.8 g | 13% |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Variations & Substitutions
While this recipe is wonderful as is, feel free to explore variations. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can easily substitute the butter with your favorite dairy-free butter alternative or a good quality olive oil. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of paprika or a dash of onion powder along with the other seasonings. If you have a particular affinity for a certain herb, don’t hesitate to adjust the quantities or add others like rosemary or thyme. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese stirred in at the very end, after cooking but before serving (if not aiming for dairy-free), adds a lovely savory note.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different types of potatoes?
A: Yes, you can. While medium-sized potatoes work best for consistent results, you can use varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just ensure you cut them into roughly uniform pieces.
Q: My crock pot is usually faster. Should I still cook for 5 hours?
A: It’s always best to check for doneness. Pierce a potato with a fork; if it’s easily pierced and tender, they’re ready, regardless of the exact cooking time.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: While this recipe focuses on potatoes, you could experiment with adding hearty root vegetables like carrots or parsnips, cut to a similar size. Be mindful that they might alter the cooking time.
Q: Is it okay to leave the lid off the crock pot for a bit to check on them?
A: While it’s tempting to peek, try to keep the lid on as much as possible. Each time you lift the lid, you release precious heat, prolonging the cooking time.
Q: How can I make these potatoes a bit crispy?
A: These are designed to be tender and infused with flavor. For crispier potatoes, you would typically roast them in a hot oven. However, after cooking in the crock pot, you could transfer them to a hot oven (around 400°F/200°C) for a few minutes to achieve a slight crisp on the edges.
Final Thoughts
There’s a quiet satisfaction in preparing a dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul. Robyn’s Crock Pot Herb Roasted Potatoes are precisely that – simple, comforting, and utterly delicious. They are a testament to the magic that happens when good ingredients meet a little bit of time and a lot of heart. I encourage you to make these for your next family meal, potluck, or even just a quiet weeknight dinner. They are guaranteed to bring smiles and happy sighs to the table. Serve them alongside your favorite protein or a crisp green salad, and savor the comforting embrace of a truly home-cooked classic. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative twists you discover – I always love hearing how recipes evolve in your kitchens!