If you’re searching for a side dish that’s bursting with flavor yet ridiculously easy to prepare, then the Slow Cooker Baby Potatoes with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. These tender baby potatoes soak up a fragrant blend of garlic, rosemary, thyme, and a touch of paprika, all enhanced by the creamy richness of Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers comforting, mouthwatering results with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Slow Cooker Baby Potatoes with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is straightforward but plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. These simple pantry staples come together to make something truly special and comforting.

Baby potatoes (2 lbs): Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best for their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape.
Olive oil or melted butter (3 tbsp): Adds richness and helps the herbs and spices cling to the potatoes.
Garlic cloves, minced (4): Imparts a wonderfully fragrant base flavor that complements the herbs beautifully.
Dried rosemary (1 tsp): Brings an earthy pine-like note that pairs perfectly with potatoes.
Dried thyme (1 tsp): Adds a subtle herbal brightness with a hint of lemony zest.
Paprika (1/2 tsp): Introduces a gentle smokiness and a hint of warmth without overpowering the dish.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, optional): Offers a nutty, salty finish that makes each bite irresistible.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a burst of fresh color and a mild, refreshing herbaceous touch.

How to Make Slow Cooker Baby Potatoes with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Start by washing and drying your baby potatoes. If any are larger than a bite or two, cut them in half so they cook evenly. Place all the potatoes directly into your slow cooker—no peeling or fuss required, which saves you time and keeps the skin texture intact for that lovely rustic feel.

Step 2: Mix Seasoning

In a bowl, whisk together your olive oil or melted butter with the minced garlic, dried rosemary, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. This aromatic mixture is where the magic begins, infusing the potatoes with layers of flavor as they cook slowly. Pour this seasoning blend over the potatoes in the slow cooker, then toss gently to ensure each piece is beautifully coated.

Step 3: Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it on high for about 3 to 4 hours, or low for 6 to 8 hours. The slow, gentle cooking melts all the flavors into the potatoes, resulting in a tender, fork-friendly texture you’ll absolutely love. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork.

Step 4: Optional Crisp Finish

If you love a bit of crispy, golden charm on your potatoes, transfer them to a baking sheet after cooking. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top, then broil for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts and browns slightly. This final step adds a savory, crunchy layer that’s the perfect contrast to the soft potatoes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, scatter fresh chopped parsley over the potatoes. It brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that lifts the entire plate. Now you’re ready to plate up this crowd-pleaser!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Baby Potatoes with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that works wonders here, but you can also experiment with chopped chives, a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness, or even a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil to add a silky finish. These touches elevate the final presentation and flavor profile beautifully.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs perfectly with roasted or grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork tenderloin. It’s also excellent alongside steamed green vegetables or a simple leafy salad for a well-rounded meal. The creamy, herb-infused potatoes complement practically any main dish that benefits from a hearty, flavorful side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more festive presentation, serve the potatoes in a rustic cast iron skillet right from the oven, topped with a sprinkling of more Parmesan and herbs. Alternatively, skewer the potatoes for a fun appetizer or serve them in small bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream and chives for a loaded potato feel that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover Slow Cooker Baby Potatoes with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When stored properly, the flavors stay vibrant and the potatoes remain tender.

Freezing

While you can freeze cooked potatoes, note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing, becoming a bit softer. To freeze, spread the cooked potatoes on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a sealed freezer-safe bag or container. Use within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore some of the crispy texture, especially if you have added the Parmesan topping. Alternatively, a quick sauté in a skillet or a short microwave stint works well if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?

Regular potatoes can be used, but you will need to cut them into smaller, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Baby potatoes are preferred because they cook evenly and retain their tender skin, which adds texture.

Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese?

No, Parmesan is optional, but it adds a wonderful nutty, salty flavor and a crispy finish when broiled. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can skip it or try a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Can I add fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely! Fresh rosemary and thyme can be used. Just use about three times the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated than dried ones. Add them at the start for infusing flavor during cooking, and some fresh herbs at the end for garnish.

Can this recipe be made vegan?

Yes! Simply use olive oil instead of butter and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute. The herbs and garlic provide plenty of flavor to make this a delicious vegan side dish.

How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the slow cooker?

Ensure you coat the potatoes evenly with the oil or melted butter and seasoning mix before cooking. You can also lightly grease the slow cooker insert to help prevent sticking.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Baby Potatoes with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe has become such a beloved staple in my kitchen because it’s effortless, adaptable, and delivers incredible flavor every time. If you haven’t tried it yet, I truly encourage you to give it a go—you’ll find these potatoes are the perfect cozy companion to almost any meal, making dinner feel special without any hassle.

Slow Cooker Baby Potatoes with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 49 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious and easy slow cooker potatoes cooked to tender perfection with garlic, herbs, and a crispy Parmesan finish. Perfect as a comforting side dish that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red, halved if large)
3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prep the Potatoes: Wash and thoroughly dry the baby potatoes. If any are large, halve them to ensure even cooking. Place all the potatoes into your slow cooker.
Mix Seasoning: In a separate bowl, combine the olive oil or melted butter with minced garlic, dried rosemary, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk well to create a flavorful seasoning mixture.
Coat the Potatoes: Pour the seasoning mixture over the potatoes in the slow cooker. Toss gently to ensure every potato is evenly coated with the aromatic blend.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 8 hours, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Optional Crisp Finish: For a crispy, cheesy crust, transfer the cooked potatoes onto a baking sheet. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly on top, then broil in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from broiler and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the potatoes. Serve warm as a savory side dish.

Notes

You can use either olive oil or melted butter depending on your preference for flavor and richness.
Halving larger potatoes ensures faster and more even cooking in the slow cooker.
If you prefer a crispier texture without broiling, you can sauté the cooked potatoes in a hot pan with a bit of oil before serving.
Parmesan is optional but adds a delightful savory crust. For a dairy-free version, omit or use a plant-based cheese.
Adjust herbs and spices to suit your taste; fresh herbs can be substituted if available.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Category: Side Dish
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American