Slow Cooker Ranch Potatoes are a perfect side dish that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of baby potatoes, ranch seasoning, and olive oil results in tender, flavorful potatoes that make the ideal accompaniment to almost any meal. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these Slow Cooker Ranch Potatoes will be a hit.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. With the hands-off cooking method, you’ll have more time to focus on other aspects of your meal. The ranch seasoning adds a tangy, herby flavor to the potatoes, while the slow cooking ensures that they turn out perfectly tender and infused with all the delicious flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Effortless Preparation

This recipe requires only a few minutes of prep time. Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it!

2. Tender, Flavorful Potatoes

Slow cooking the potatoes ensures they become perfectly tender while absorbing all the rich flavors from the ranch seasoning.

3. Minimal Ingredients

With just a few pantry staples like olive oil, ranch seasoning, and baby potatoes, this dish is both simple and flavorful.

4. Versatile Side Dish

These ranch potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with just about any main dish, from grilled meats to casseroles.

5. Perfect for Busy Days

Since this dish cooks itself in the slow cooker, it’s ideal for busy days when you want a delicious side without much hands-on effort.

Ingredients

Baby potatoes (halved)
Olive oil
Ranch seasoning mix
Salt and pepper
Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

Add Garlic: For an extra layer of flavor, add minced garlic or garlic powder to the seasoning mix.
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
Spicy Ranch Potatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
Herb-Infused Potatoes: Sprinkle some dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a more aromatic flavor.
Bacon Ranch Potatoes: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the potatoes during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a smoky flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Place them in the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix the Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil with the ranch seasoning mix. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Coat the Potatoes

Pour the ranch and olive oil mixture over the potatoes. Toss the potatoes gently to ensure they are evenly coated.

Step 4: Season to Taste

Season the potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Mix again to distribute the seasoning.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Potatoes

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the potatoes are cooked, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Check for Doneness: Potatoes can vary in size, so check for doneness by poking them with a fork. They should be soft and tender when fully cooked.
Layering the Potatoes: Make sure the potatoes are evenly spread out in the slow cooker to ensure they cook uniformly.
Use a Liner: For easy cleanup, use a slow cooker liner. It will save you time and effort when it’s time to wash the dishes.
Don’t Overcrowd: If your slow cooker is too full, the potatoes may not cook as evenly, so consider halving the recipe if you’re cooking for fewer people.

How to Serve

Serve these Slow Cooker Ranch Potatoes as a side dish alongside roasted meats, chicken, or steak. They also pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables, baked chicken, or even as part of a potluck spread. For a heartier meal, serve them with a fresh green salad or some grilled shrimp for a complete dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover ranch potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil to keep them moist.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the potatoes after they’ve cooled. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave for a quick option, or warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of oil or butter to maintain their creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use any type of potato. Russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes can be substituted, but the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size and type of potato.

2. Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?

Yes, you can make your own ranch seasoning by combining dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust to taste.

3. Can I cook this on high heat?

Yes, you can cook the potatoes on high for 2-3 hours, but keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook or burn.

4. Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, adding shredded cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking can make these potatoes even more delicious and creamy.

5. How can I make this recipe spicy?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture for a spicy kick.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe to serve more people. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased ingredients.

7. Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of the slow cooker?

Yes, you can bake these potatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until tender, tossing occasionally for even cooking.

8. Can I add other vegetables?

Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots or onions, to the slow cooker along with the potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary.

9. Can I use low-fat ranch seasoning?

Yes, low-fat ranch seasoning can be used in this recipe. It will still provide great flavor with fewer calories.

10. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the potatoes and seasoning mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to cook them fresh for the best texture.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Ranch Potatoes are the ultimate easy and flavorful side dish. With minimal effort, you can have tender, perfectly seasoned potatoes ready to serve with your favorite meal. This dish is customizable, versatile, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal, these ranch potatoes will be a hit with everyone at the table.