Introduction
Crockpot Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that brings a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful twist to your Thanksgiving feast. Slow-cooked to perfection, these potatoes are infused with garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese, making them an irresistible addition to any holiday spread.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Easy to Prepare: The crockpot does most of the work, making it a hassle-free dish.
- Rich and Flavorful: Parmesan, butter, and garlic create a perfect balance of flavors.
- Crispy and Tender: Slow cooking ensures the potatoes are soft inside while maintaining a crispy outer layer.
- Great for Gatherings: Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Origin of the Dish
Roasted potatoes have been a staple in European cuisine for centuries, often paired with roasted meats and hearty meals. The addition of Parmesan cheese brings an Italian influence, enhancing the dish’s savory profile. Cooking them in a crockpot modernizes the preparation, allowing for easy, hands-free cooking during the busy holiday season.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and halve the baby potatoes.
- In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, melted butter, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Add grated Parmesan and mix well until the potatoes are evenly coated.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Potatoes
- Lightly grease the crockpot with non-stick spray or butter.
- Transfer the seasoned potatoes into the crockpot.
- Cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
Step 3: Finish and Serve
- Once the potatoes are tender and golden, sprinkle additional Parmesan and fresh parsley on top.
- Serve warm as a side dish for Thanksgiving turkey, ham, or roasted meats.
Cooking Tips
- Use Baby Potatoes: Their thin skins become crispy, and they cook evenly.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Spread the potatoes evenly in the crockpot to ensure they roast properly.
- Stir Occasionally: This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Add Cheese at the End: For extra crispiness, sprinkle more Parmesan before serving.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying Potatoes Properly: Excess moisture can lead to mushy potatoes.
- Using Too Much Liquid: Stick to olive oil and butter to maintain a crispy texture.
- Overcooking on High: While faster, high heat can overcook the potatoes and make them too soft.
- Skipping the Stirring: Stirring helps the potatoes cook evenly and prevents burning.
Serving Tips
- Serve as a side dish with Thanksgiving turkey, ham, or roasted meats.
- Pair with sour cream or a garlic aioli for extra flavor.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley for presentation.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Potatoes: A great source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C.
- Olive Oil: Provides heart-healthy fats.
- Garlic: Supports immune health and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Parmesan Cheese: Rich in protein and calcium.
- Herbs (Oregano & Thyme): Contain antioxidants and enhance flavor naturally.
Interesting Facts
- Parmesan cheese has been produced in Italy for over 900 years.
- Roasted potatoes are one of the most popular side dishes worldwide.
- The slow cooker was invented in the 1940s and became a household staple for easy meal prep.
- Baby potatoes cook faster and hold their shape better than larger varieties.
Summarized Recipe
Ingredients: Baby potatoes, olive oil, butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, parsley.
Steps:
- Toss halved baby potatoes with olive oil, melted butter, garlic, and seasonings.
- Add grated Parmesan and mix well.
- Transfer to a greased crockpot and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours.
- Sprinkle extra Parmesan and parsley before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Crockpot Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are a must-try Thanksgiving side dish, offering crispy, cheesy goodness with minimal effort. Whether paired with turkey or enjoyed on their own, these potatoes bring a delightful combination of flavors to your holiday table!
