Slow-Cooker Red Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic

Crock Pot Red Potatoes are a simple, flavorful side dish with a crisp exterior and tender interior. Halved baby red potatoes are tossed with olive oil, butter, garlic, and rosemary, then slow-cooked until fork-tender and finished with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley. Minimal prep makes this a perfect weeknight or holiday side.

A bowl of sliced, roasted Crock Pot red potatoes garnished with grated cheese and fresh parsley.

Why this Crock Pot Red Potato Recipe is a Keeper

This slow cooker potato recipe is loved for several reasons:

  • Simple ingredients: Everything needed is easy to find at the grocery store or already in your pantry.
  • Great texture and flavor: Potatoes come out tender inside with nicely seasoned, slightly crisped skins and a savory herb-parmesan finish.
  • Family-friendly: Both kids and adults enjoy these potatoes, making them a versatile side for many meals.

Why Are Red Potatoes Best for this Recipe?

A bowl of the delicious side.

Baby red potatoes are small, tender, and hold their shape well during slow cooking. You can substitute other waxy varieties like baby Yukon Golds, but reds resist becoming mushy and deliver a pleasant texture for this method.

Ingredient Notes

A bottle of oil, a stick of butter, a tablespoon of oil, dried rosemary, minced garlic, and ground pepper sit on a wooden surface next to a pile of Crock Pot Red Potatoes.
  • Red potatoes: Use baby red potatoes and halve them so they cook evenly.
  • Rosemary: Fresh rosemary gives the best flavor; dried rosemary works in a pinch but is less aromatic.

See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts and full instructions.

Prep-Ahead Suggestions

  • Make ahead: Prepare and cook the potatoes earlier, then gently reheat before serving to save time on busy days.

Special Equipment

  • Crock pot / slow cooker: This recipe is designed for a slow cooker, but a large covered Dutch oven could work in the oven at low temperature if needed.

Pro Tip

For an extra-crispy exterior and tender interior, parboil the halved potatoes for 3–5 minutes before tossing with oil and seasonings and transferring to the slow cooker. This helps them cook evenly and reduces the chance of mushy pieces.

How to Make Red Rosemary Potatoes

Three images of Crock Pot Red Potatoes: sliced potatoes, red potatoes with butter and herbs in a slow cooker, and grated cheese with parsley in a bowl.

1. Add the ingredients

Lightly coat the slow cooker with nonstick spray. Place halved baby red potatoes in the crock, drizzle with olive oil, add small pieces of butter, minced garlic, and rosemary. Season with an all-purpose seasoning or salt and pepper, then toss to coat evenly.

2. Cook until fork-tender

Cover and cook on high for 2–3 hours or on low for 4–5 hours, until potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. Before serving, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley.

Storage, Reheating and Leftover Uses

  • Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
  • Use within: Leftovers stay good for 3–5 days and can be tossed into salads, breakfast hash, or reheated as a side.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for heat.
  • Cut larger potatoes: If using larger potatoes, cut them into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
  • Cheesy: Stir in shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère after cooking.
  • Garlic Ranch: Mix in minced garlic, chives, and a packet of ranch dressing mix for a tangy twist.
  • Herb swaps: Try thyme, oregano, or sage in place of rosemary.
  • Citrus brightening: A squeeze of lemon or lime before serving adds a fresh contrast.

Crock Pot Red Potatoes FAQs

What can I serve with these potatoes?

They pair well with roasted or grilled chicken, pork, ham, or vegetarian mains. Their mild, herb-forward flavor complements many entrees.

Do I need to add liquid to the crock pot?

No. The oil and butter provide enough moisture; adding extra liquid isn’t necessary and can make potatoes soggy.

Can I use yellow potatoes?

Yes. Baby Yukon or yellow potatoes can be used, but texture and flavor will vary slightly from red potatoes.

A bowl of veggies on a wooden surface.

Recipe Tips

  • Potato placement: Place cut sides down when possible to encourage a bit more browning against the crock surface.
  • Mix-ins: Top with cooked bacon or shredded cheese after cooking for added richness.
  • Season well: Don’t skimp on salt, pepper, and herbs—potatoes need seasoning to shine.
  • Aromatics: Add extra garlic or sliced green onions for more depth.
  • Fresh herbs: Whenever possible use fresh rosemary for the best aroma and flavor.
  • Texture control: For creamier potatoes add a splash of broth or milk; for a drier, roasted style use less added liquid.
A bowl of sliced, roasted Crock Pot red potatoes garnished with grated cheese and fresh parsley.

Crock Pot Red Potatoes with Rosemary

Crisp-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside red potatoes seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and Parmesan—perfect as an easy side dish.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 5 mins
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish / Side
Author: Christina Hitchcock

Equipment

  • Crock Pot or slow cooker
  • Nonstick cooking spray

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds baby red potatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
  • All-purpose seasoning or salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  • Lightly coat the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
  • Place the halved potatoes in the slow cooker. Add olive oil, butter, minced garlic, and rosemary. Season with all-purpose seasoning or salt and pepper, then toss to coat.
  • Cover and cook on high for 2–3 hours or on low for 4–5 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender.
  • Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley before serving. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Potato placement: Place cut sides down against the crock when possible for more surface browning.
  • Mix it up: Top with cooked bacon or shredded cheddar after cooking for extra flavor.
  • Season generously: Potatoes benefit from ample salt, pepper, and herbs.
  • Aromatics: Add extra garlic or green onions to boost flavor.
  • Fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary offers the best aroma; use dried if needed.
  • Adjust texture: Add a splash of broth or milk for creamier potatoes, or use less liquid for a drier texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 271 kcal
Carbohydrates: 41 g
Protein: 6 g
Fat: 10 g
Fiber: 5 g

Nutrition information are estimates and should be verified if you require precise values.