Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Smashed Potato Bake
If you love comfort food that is easy to prepare and full of flavor, the Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Smashed Potato Bake is the perfect recipe for you. This dish combines crispy, golden potatoes with melted butter and fresh chives, making it a treat for any meal. Plus, it only requires four simple ingredients!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for many reasons. Firstly, it is incredibly easy to make. With only four ingredients, you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. Secondly, using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it while you carry on with your day. Ultimately, this smashed potato bake is delicious and comforting, making it a fantastic side dish or even a main dish for gatherings.
How to Make Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Smashed Potato Bake
To prepare the Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Smashed Potato Bake, gather the ingredients and follow these simple steps:
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds small baby gold potatoes, rinsed and dried
- 1 cup salted butter (2 sticks), melted and divided
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/3 cup finely chopped fresh chives, divided
Directions:
- Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with melted butter.
- Place the rinsed and dried baby gold potatoes in an even layer in the slow cooker.
- Pour about 3/4 cup of melted butter over the potatoes and sprinkle kosher salt.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 to 3 1/2 hours or on LOW for 5 to 6 hours until tender.
- Once tender, drain any excess liquid and smash each potato using a fork or potato masher in the slow cooker.
- Drizzle remaining melted butter over the smashed potatoes and sprinkle half of the chives on top.
- Prop the lid slightly open and cook on HIGH for another 45 to 75 minutes until golden-brown and crisp.
- Before serving, sprinkle the remaining chives over the potatoes.
How to Serve Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Smashed Potato Bake
This smashed potato bake can be served hot as a side dish with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a part of a cozy dinner with friends and family. You can also enjoy it on its own for a satisfying snack!
How to Store Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Smashed Potato Bake
Once prepared, let the smashed potato bake cool completely. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. It can be kept for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can also freeze the potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Smashed Potato Bake
- Make sure to rinse and dry the potatoes well to ensure they cook evenly.
- You can adjust the amount of butter and salt according to your taste preferences.
- For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or cheese when you smash the potatoes.
Variation
For a twist, you can add cooked bacon bits or cheese to the smashed potatoes before serving. This will add more rich flavors and textures to the dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other potatoes like red or russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that the cooking time might vary a bit.
2. Is it necessary to use a slow cooker?
While using a slow cooker gives the best results for this recipe, you can also make similar smashed potatoes on the stovetop. Just boil the potatoes until tender and then smash them in a pot.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the potatoes in advance, smash them, and then reheat them just before serving. You might need to add a little more butter or milk when reheating to keep them creamy.
Enjoy this simple and delicious Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Smashed Potato Bake at your next meal or gathering!
Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Smashed Potato Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with melted butter.
- Place the rinsed and dried baby gold potatoes in an even layer in the slow cooker.
- Pour about 3/4 cup of melted butter over the potatoes and sprinkle kosher salt.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 to 3.5 hours or on LOW for 5 to 6 hours until tender.
- Once tender, drain any excess liquid and smash each potato using a fork or potato masher in the slow cooker.
- Drizzle remaining melted butter over the smashed potatoes and sprinkle half of the chives on top.
- Prop the lid slightly open and cook on HIGH for another 45 to 75 minutes until golden-brown and crisp.
- Before serving, sprinkle the remaining chives over the potatoes.
