Crock Pot Potatoes (Easy, Fail-Safe Method for Any Cut)

Cooking potatoes in a crock pot is one of the simplest ways to get a side dish on the table. Whether you’re making diced potatoes, whole baby potatoes, or new potatoes for salad, the slow cooker gives you soft centers and rich flavor with almost no effort.

This guide covers:

• Exact cook times for diced, cubed, baby, and whole potatoes in the crock pot and slow cooker.
• Best potatoes for slow cooking without turning mushy.
• Variations for garlic-herb, ranch, and potluck potatoes.
• FAQs and troubleshooting so you get perfect results every time.

If you’ve searched “how long do potatoes take in a crock pot” or “easy crockpot potato recipes”, this page gives you the clear answers in one place. Serve with our slow cooker steak bites for a full dump-and-go dinner.

Quick Answer

How long do potatoes take in a crock pot?

• Diced ½-inch potatoes: 2–3 hr on High, 4–5 hr on Low
• Baby or mini potatoes, whole: 3–4 hr on High, 6–7 hr on Low
• Medium whole potatoes: 4–5 hr on High, 8–9 hr on Low

Best potatoes for crock pot cooking:

• Yukon Gold and Red potatoes hold shape best.
• Russet potatoes work for mashed or creamy dishes but can break down.

When to add potatoes in stews and roasts:

• Add them for the last half of cooking. This keeps them from overcooking while the meat tenderizes.

Ingredients by Use Case

Different meals call for different potato setups. Below are the best crock pot potato combinations with seasoning blends, prep tips, and potato type swaps.

Base Seasoned Potatoes (Everyday Side)

Simple, all-purpose, and perfect with chicken, beef, or fish.

• 2 lb potatoes (diced, cubed, or baby whole)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley or Italian seasoning
• Optional: ½ cup broth for softer edges
• Pairs with honey garlic chicken thighs for a 30-min main.

Prep Tips

• Leave skins on for baby or new potatoes (saves time and adds texture).
• Peel if using russets, since skins toughen in long cooks.
• Swap Yukon Gold for a buttery finish or red potatoes for firmer cubes.

Potatoes and Carrots (Set-and-Forget Meal Base)

Balanced, hearty, and great for family dinners.

• 1½ lb baby potatoes, whole
• 1 lb carrots, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ cup broth

Prep Tips

• Use baby carrots for speed, but whole carrots taste sweeter.
• Red potatoes hold better than russets in this combo.
• Add parsnips or turnips for variation.
• Got leftovers? Turn them into 4-ingredient potato soup tomorrow.

Potatoes and Onions (Roast-Style Flavor)

Classic flavor pairing, ideal for beef roast or chicken.

• 2 lb red or Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• Optional: 1 tsp Worcestershire

Prep Tips

• Slice onions thick so they don’t melt away.
• Red potatoes keep shape best; Yukon Gold gives creamy edges.
• For bolder flavor, add 2 cloves garlic.
• Craving classic comfort? Try our cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole.

Party or Potluck Potatoes

Feeds a crowd with minimal effort.

• 3 lb mini potatoes, whole
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp ranch seasoning or onion soup mix
• Optional: ½ cup sour cream + ½ cup shredded cheddar, stirred in at the end

Prep Tips

• Keep skins on for bite-sized ease.
• Add bacon bits or chives at the end for party flavor.
• Double the batch for a 6-quart slow cooker.
• Serve alongside slow cooker country-style ribs at your next potluck.

Step-By-Step: Potatoes in Slow Cooker

Each potato type cooks a little differently. Follow these tested steps for the best texture every time.

Diced or Cubed Potatoes (Fastest Method)

Best for: Weeknight sides, meal prep, or potato casseroles.

Steps

1. Spray crock lightly with oil or line with parchment sling.
2. Add 2 lb diced potatoes (½-inch cubes).
3. Toss with 2 tbsp oil or melted butter, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder.
4. Add ¼–½ cup broth if you prefer softer edges.
5. Cook: 2–3 hr on High or 4–5 hr on Low.
6. Doneness: fork slides in but cubes still hold shape.
7. Optional crisp finish: spread on a baking sheet and broil 3–5 min.

Love crispy sides? Don’t miss our white sweet potatoes wedges guide.

Prep Hacks

• Russets break down quickly – best if you plan to mash.
• Yukon Gold and red potatoes keep their shape.
• Peel if using russets; leave skin on for red or Yukon.

Baby, Mini, or New Potatoes (Whole)

Best for: Holiday dinners, potlucks, and simple sides.

Steps

1. Rinse and dry potatoes. Do not peel.
2. Toss 2 lb baby potatoes with 2 tbsp oil, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, herbs of choice.
3. Cook: 3–4 hr on High or 6–7 hr on Low.
4. Doneness: skin wrinkles slightly, fork goes in clean.
5. For extra flavor, toss in melted butter and parsley before serving.

Prep Hacks

• Baby red potatoes hold up best for “potato salad in crock pot”. For dessert, make crock pot apple crisp while dinner cooks.
• New potatoes stay creamy inside.
• If potatoes are mixed sizes, cut the largest in half.

Whole Medium Potatoes

Best for: Meal prep (baked potato style), potato salad base.

Steps

1. Pierce each potato 3 times with a fork.
2. Rub with oil and salt. Place on onion rings or foil balls to lift from liquid.
3. Cook: 4–5 hr on High or 8–9 hr on Low.
4. Doneness: probe slides through center without resistance.
5. Serve as baked potatoes or chill for salad use.

Meal prep bonus: next-day banana cottage cheese pancakes.

Prep Hacks

• Works best with Yukon or russet.
• For loaded potatoes, split and add toppings just before serving.

Salt Potatoes (NY-Style in Crock Pot)

Best for: Summer cookouts or simple salty-skin sides.

Steps

1. Mix ½ cup kosher salt with 2 cups water. Stir until mostly dissolved.
2. Toss 2 lb small potatoes in the brine.
3. Cook: 3–4 hr on High or 6–7 hr on Low.
4. Drain. Add 2 tbsp butter to finish.

Prep Hacks

• Keep skins on – that’s where the salt crust forms.
• Small new potatoes give the best creamy bite.

Perfect with delicate fish like steelhead trout

Time & Temperature Guide (Print-Friendly)

Getting the timing right is the key to perfect crock pot potatoes. Here’s the breakdown by cut, size, and setting.

High vs Low: Exact Times by Cut

Fresh vs Frozen Potatoes

• Frozen diced potatoes: add 20–30 minutes to listed time.
• Do not thaw in the crock pot; add straight from freezer.
• Frozen potatoes work best in casseroles or creamy recipes.

Add-Ins That Change Time

• Carrots: add 15–25 minutes (denser than potatoes).
• Large meat cuts: add 20–40 minutes (potatoes absorb juices).
• Dairy: add cream, sour cream, or cheese in the last 15 minutes on Low.

Doneness Test

• Potatoes are done when a fork slides into the center easily.
• If undercooked after listed time, extend by 30 minutes.
• For firmer potatoes (salads or roasts), cook at the shorter end of the range.

Best Potato Types for the Crock Pot

Not all potatoes behave the same in a slow cooker. Here’s how the main varieties compare.

Learn more about waxy vs. starchy potatoes in this overview from the Harvard Nutrition Source.

Planning holiday sides? Try sweet potato casserole with frozen OJ & pecans.

Pro Tips:

• For firm potatoes in crock pot stews: choose red or Yukon Gold.
• For creamy sides or mashed: use Russet.
• For easy potluck or holiday dishes: baby or fingerling potatoes shine.
• Avoid waxy potatoes if you plan to mash – they won’t get fluffy.

FAQ: Best Potatoes for Slow Cooking

Are red potatoes good in a crock pot?

• Yes. Red potatoes are waxy and firm, which means they hold their shape during long slow cooking. They are the best choice for stews, roasts, and potato salads made in a crock pot.

What potatoes hold up best in a slow cooker?

• Red and Yukon Gold potatoes keep their structure the best. They stay firm on the outside but tender inside, so they don’t turn to mush.

Can you use russet potatoes in a crock pot?

• You can, but russets are starchy and break down faster. They’re perfect if you want soft or mashed-style potatoes but not ideal for stews or salads.

What are the best potatoes for crock pot potato salad?

• Small red or baby new potatoes are the top choice. They stay firm, peel easily, and taste creamy once cooled.

Which potatoes are best for a slow cooker roast?

• Red potatoes or Yukon Gold are best because they don’t fall apart while the meat cooks for several hours.

Can I mix potato types in a crock pot?

• Yes, but cut them to similar sizes. Expect russets to cook faster than waxy potatoes.

Variations You’ll Use

Potatoes are a blank canvas in the crock pot. Here are four tried-and-true variations that work every time.

Garlic-Herb Potatoes

Best for: Everyday dinners and holiday sides.

• 2 lb diced or baby potatoes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper
• 1 tsp dried rosemary or thyme

Steps: Toss everything together and cook for 3 hr on High or 6 hr on Low. Finish with chopped parsley.

Prep Hacks:

• Swap dried rosemary for Italian seasoning if short on time.
• For garlic lovers, roast whole cloves in foil and stir in at the end.
• Finish with a drizzle of Mexican hot sauce for brightness.

Ranch Packet Potatoes

Best for: Family-friendly dinners and picky eaters.

• 2 lb cubed or baby potatoes
• 1 oz ranch seasoning packet
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 2 tbsp water or broth

Steps: Stir seasoning into butter, coat potatoes, cook 3–4 hr on High or 6–7 hr on Low. Toss before serving.

Prep Hacks:

• Add ½ cup sour cream and shredded cheddar at the end for creamy ranch potatoes.
• Swap in onion soup mix for a bolder flavor.
• For your dessert board, add silky pistachio cream on toast or fruit.

Crispy Finish Potatoes

Best for: When you want crunch without frying.

• Prepare any base recipe.
• Once tender, transfer potatoes to a baking sheet.
• Broil 3–5 minutes, turning once, until edges brown.

Prep Hacks:

• Toss in 1 tbsp grated Parmesan before broiling for a crispy-cheesy finish.
• Air fryer works too: 5 minutes at 400°F.
• Round out the plate with chicken fried rice in 20 minutes.

Dairy-Free, Vegan, or Gluten-Free Swap

Best for: Allergy-friendly meals and lighter sides.

• Replace butter with olive oil or avocado oil.
• Use coconut cream instead of dairy cream.
• Check seasoning packets for hidden gluten.

Prep Hacks:

• Nutritional yeast adds cheesy flavor without dairy.
• A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavor.

FAQs People Ask About Crock Pot Potatoes

How do you cook potatoes in a crock pot?

• Wash, cut (or leave whole if baby potatoes), season, and cook with a splash of broth. Use 2–3 hr on High or 4–5 hr on Low for diced, or longer for whole potatoes.

How long do potatoes take in a crock pot on high vs low?

• Diced ½-inch: 2–3 hr High / 4–5 hr Low
• Baby whole: 3–4 hr High / 6–7 hr Low
• Medium whole: 4–5 hr High / 8–9 hr Low

Can you cook potatoes in a crock pot without liquid?

• Yes. A light coating of oil is enough. Add ¼ cup broth only if you want softer edges. Too much liquid makes potatoes mushy.

Do you need to peel potatoes for a slow cooker?

• No. Baby, red, or Yukon Gold can stay unpeeled. Peel russets if you want them to hold shape.

Can you boil potatoes in a crock pot?

• Technically yes, but it’s not efficient. Instead, cook them with minimal water until fork-tender. For “salt potatoes,” cook them whole in a salted brine.

When do you add potatoes to a crock pot stew?

• Add during the last half of the cooking time. This prevents overcooking while the meat tenderizes.

What are the best potatoes for crock pot stew or roast?

• Red and Yukon Gold. They stay firm, even in long cooks. Russets will fall apart and thicken the broth.

How do you keep potatoes from turning mushy in the slow cooker?

• Cut potatoes into larger chunks.
• Use waxy types (red, Yukon).
• Don’t overfill with liquid.
• Cook on Low for firmer potatoes.

Can you put raw potatoes in a slow cooker?

• Yes. Potatoes cook through safely in a slow cooker, as long as you follow the time guidelines.

How to cook baby red potatoes in a slow cooker?

• Season, add a little oil, and cook 3–4 hr on High or 6–7 hr on Low until fork-tender.

Troubleshooting Crock Pot Potatoes

Even when you follow the recipe, potatoes can sometimes misbehave in the slow cooker. Here’s how to fix the most common issues.

Mushy or Watery Potatoes

Cause: Too much liquid, wrong potato type, or overcooking.
Fix:

• Use red or Yukon Gold (they hold shape better).
• Cut larger chunks if cooking long.
• Reduce broth to ¼ cup or less.
• Cook on Low for firmer texture.

Potatoes Not Cooked Through

Cause: Potatoes cut too large, crock pot running cool, or lid lifted too often.
Fix:

• Cut into smaller cubes for faster cooking.
• Extend time by 30–60 minutes.
• Always keep the lid closed.
• Test with a fork before serving.

Dairy Split or Sauce Looks Grainy

Cause: Adding milk, cream, or cheese too early.
Fix:

• Stir in dairy during the last 15 minutes on Low.
• For creamy results, whisk in a spoonful of flour or cornstarch before adding dairy.
• Use evaporated milk for extra stability.

Too Salty

Cause: Over-seasoning or using salted broth plus seasoning packets.
Fix:

• Add cubed raw potatoes and cook 30 minutes longer to absorb salt.
• Stir in unsalted mashed potatoes to balance.
• Add a splash of cream or unsalted butter.

Potatoes Turned Grey

Cause: Cut potatoes exposed to air before cooking.
Fix:

• Soak cut potatoes in cold water for 15 minutes, then drain before adding to the slow cooker.
• Always cook within 1–2 hours of cutting.

Troubleshooting at a Glance (Quick Fix Table)

Storage, Reheat, and Freezer Notes

Slow cooker potatoes keep well if stored correctly. Here’s how to handle leftovers safely while keeping the best texture. For safe temps and reheating rules, see the USDA slow cooker food-safety guidelines.

Storing in the Fridge

• Transfer potatoes to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking.
• Store up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep plain seasoned potatoes separate from dairy sauces for longer shelf life.

Reheating Potatoes

• Microwave: Heat covered on medium, stirring once, 2–3 minutes per portion.
• Oven: Spread on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
• Air Fryer (crispy option): Reheat at 375°F for 5–7 minutes until warmed and crisp.
• Reheat potatoes while noodles stir-fry for shrimp lo mein.

Pro Tip: Add 1–2 tbsp broth or butter when reheating to prevent dryness.

Freezing Crock Pot Potatoes

• Best for: mashed or diced potatoes in broth.
• Not ideal for: whole baby potatoes (texture turns grainy after thawing).
• To freeze: cool completely, portion into freezer bags, press flat, and freeze up to 3 months.
• To thaw: place in fridge overnight, then reheat using methods above.

Safety Notes

• Do not leave potatoes on “Warm” in the slow cooker for more than 4 hours.
• Always reheat to at least 165°F internal temperature before eating.

Scaling for 2, 6, or 12 Servings

Crock pot potatoes are easy to scale up or down. Use this quick guide to adjust quantities and cook times for different crowd sizes.

Serving Size Conversion Table

Scaling Tips

• Don’t overfill past ¾ full – potatoes need space to cook evenly.
• Stir halfway if cooking a large batch in a 6–8 quart slow cooker.
• Larger batches often need +30 minutes to reach fork-tender doneness.
• For potluck potatoes, whole baby potatoes are easiest to scale.

Scaling FAQs

Can I double crock pot potatoes?
Yes. You can double the amount as long as your slow cooker is large enough. A 6–8 quart model fits 6 lb comfortably.

Do cook times double if I double the recipe?
No. Cook time stays nearly the same. Add only 30 minutes extra for very large batches.

What’s the maximum amount of potatoes for a crock pot?
Fill no more than ¾ full of your crock. Overfilling traps steam and causes uneven cooking.

How many potatoes fit in a 6-quart slow cooker?
About 6 lb (12 medium or 48 baby potatoes) fits comfortably without crowding.

Can I cook just 1 or 2 potatoes in a crock pot?
Yes. Use a small 2–3 quart slow cooker, or place them on a bed of foil balls to prevent drying.

Serving Ideas for Crock Pot Potatoes

Potatoes in the crock pot fit almost any occasion. Here are ways to serve them for everyday meals, parties, and holidays.

Everyday Dinner Sides

• Pair garlic-herb potatoes with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
• Use diced crockpot potatoes as a base for breakfast hash with eggs and bacon.
• Ranch potatoes are perfect with BBQ.
• We also love them with honey sesame chicken (copycat).

Holiday & Special Occasions

• Baby potatoes with butter and parsley make an elegant Thanksgiving or Christmas side dish.
• Salt potatoes are a summer cookout tradition, easy to serve from the crock.
• Cheesy ranch potatoes work for Easter and potluck spreads.

Potluck & Crowd-Friendly Ideas

• Serve crispy-finish potatoes with dipping sauces (ranch, ketchup, garlic aioli).
• Make party potatoes in a 6–8 quart slow cooker for large gatherings.
• Keep on “Warm” for up to 3 hours at events – just stir occasionally.

Creative Leftover Uses

• Turn extras into potato salad by chilling whole or cubed potatoes.
• Mash leftovers with butter and garlic for quick mashed potatoes.
• Add diced potatoes to soups or stews for another meal.

Serving Ideas at a Glance

How to Cook Potatoes in a Crock Pot

Ziko Wilson

This complete guide shows you exactly how to cook diced, baby, or whole potatoes in a slow cooker. With tips on best potato types, cook times, flavor variations, and doneness tests, it’s your ultimate crock pot potato reference.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 minutes mins

Total Time 4 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

• Crock pot or slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet (optional, for broiling)

Ingredients

  

• 2 lb potatoes (diced, cubed, or baby whole)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley or Italian seasoning
• 0.5 cup broth (optional, for softer edges)

Instructions

 

• Lightly oil or line your crock pot with a parchment sling for easy cleanup.
• Add potatoes to the crock pot and toss with olive oil or melted butter, salt, pepper, and seasonings.
• If desired, pour in broth for extra moisture. Stir to combine everything evenly.
• Cover and cook: 2–3 hours on High or 4–5 hours on Low, until fork-tender but not mushy.
• For a crispy finish, transfer cooked potatoes to a baking sheet and broil 3–5 minutes until golden.
• Serve warm. Garnish with fresh herbs, sour cream, or cheese if desired.

Notes

Want crisp edges? Broil cooked potatoes 3–5 minutes. For creamier sides, stir in sour cream or butter before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze mashed-style potatoes for later.

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Printable Cook-Time Chart for Crock Pot Potatoes

How to use this chart:

• Choose your potato cut/size.
• Set crock pot to High or Low.
• Test doneness with a fork at the low end of the range. Extend as needed.

Related Recipes to Try Next

If you liked these crock pot potatoes, you’ll love these other slow cooker ideas:

• Crock Pot Cheesy Potatoes – creamy, family-friendly, and perfect for holidays.
• Slow Cooker Potatoes and Carrots – a hearty side dish for roasts and chicken.
• Potato Salad in the Crock Pot – cook potatoes perfectly for cold salads.
• Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Potatoes – tender meat and potatoes in one pot.
• Easy Crockpot Mashed Potatoes – fluffy, buttery, and great for Thanksgiving.
• Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Baby Potatoes – simple, elegant, and holiday-ready.

Navigation tip:

• Link “cheesy potatoes” → /crock-pot-cheesy-potatoes
• Link “potatoes and carrots” → /slow-cooker-potatoes-carrots
• Link “beef stew with potatoes” → /slow-cooker-beef-stew
• Link “mashed potatoes” → /crockpot-mashed-potatoes

Final Wrap-Up

Slow cooker potatoes are one of the easiest ways to get a perfect side dish with almost no work. Whether you choose diced, cubed, baby, or whole potatoes, the crock pot gives you tender results every time – and with the right potato type, you’ll never have mushy or undercooked potatoes again.

Now it’s your turn:

• Tried this recipe? Leave a star rating and a comment below – your feedback helps others get the best results.
• Have a favorite variation? Share your go-to seasonings or family twists.
• Want more ideas? Browse the related crock pot recipes above for stews, sides, and holiday favorites.

Bookmark this page or print the cook-time chart – so you’ll always have the answer to “how long do potatoes take in a crock pot” ready at a glance.

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