Get ready to transform your ordinary side dish into a mouth-watering sensation that will have everyone begging for seconds! These Creamy Ranch Crock Pot Potatoes are the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe that combines the rich, tangy flavors of ranch with perfectly tender potatoes. Whether you're hosting a family dinner, a potluck, or just craving some serious comfort food, this recipe is about to become your new go-to crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum deliciousness!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 lbs potatoes, diced
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped chives
Instructions
- Wash and dice the potatoes into approximately 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are relatively uniform in size for even cooking. Leave the potato skins on for added texture and nutrition.
- Grease the interior of your 6-quart slow cooker with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream cheese, milk, and ranch dressing mix. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated, with no lumps remaining.
- Add the diced potatoes to the slow cooker, then pour the creamy ranch mixture over the potatoes. Gently stir to ensure all potato pieces are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 5-6 hours, stirring occasionally (about every 2 hours) to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check potato tenderness by piercing with a fork. When potatoes are soft and easily pierced, they are ready.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle chopped chives over the top of the potatoes for added flavor and garnish.
- Once done, turn off the slow cooker and let the potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional fresh chives or a sprinkle of black pepper.
Tips
- Potato Selection Matters: Choose firm, waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes that hold their shape during slow cooking.
- Size Consistency is Key: Dice your potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking throughout.
- Prevent Sticking: Always grease your slow cooker thoroughly before adding ingredients.
- Stir Occasionally: Don't forget to gently stir the potatoes every couple of hours to distribute the creamy sauce and prevent burning.
- Cream Cheese Tip: Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smoother sauce.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh chives for garnish to add a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken and set.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These potatoes can be prepared in advance and reheated, making them perfect for meal prep or large gatherings.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
