Slow cooker potatoes coated in a rich ranch-infused cream sauce—easy, comforting, and crowd-pleasing
Description
Creamy Ranch Potatoes are the kind of effortless side dish that delivers big comfort with very little work. Made in the slow cooker, tender Yukon Gold or red potatoes simmer gently in a creamy blend of ranch seasoning, butter, cream cheese, and broth until perfectly soft and coated in a savory sauce. This dish captures classic American comfort flavors and is ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or potluck gatherings.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Home cooks who want a hands-off slow cooker side dish
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Families who love classic ranch-flavored comfort food
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Busy weeknights when oven space is limited
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Potlucks, holidays, and casual gatherings
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Anyone looking for an easy, crowd-friendly potato recipe
Why It’s Great
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Made entirely in the slow cooker
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Creamy, rich flavor with minimal prep
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Uses simple pantry ingredients
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Keeps warm easily for serving
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Pairs well with chicken, beef, or pork dishes
Ingredients
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3 pounds small Yukon Gold or red potatoes, scrubbed and quartered
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8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
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1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
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2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix
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2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
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½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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Salt, to taste (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Slow cooker
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Cutting board
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Sharp knife
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Medium mixing bowl
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Whisk or spoon
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Spatula or large serving spoon
Instructions
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Prepare the Potatoes
Scrub the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. Cut into evenly sized quarters (or smaller if the potatoes are large). Place them directly into the slow cooker in an even layer. -
Mix the Creamy Ranch Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, butter, chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, chopped chives, and black pepper. Stir until mostly smooth—small cream cheese pieces will melt during cooking. -
Add Sauce to Potatoes
Pour the ranch mixture evenly over the potatoes, scraping the bowl clean to get all the sauce into the slow cooker. -
Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking. -
Gently Toss and Adjust Seasoning
Once cooked, gently stir the potatoes to coat them fully in the creamy sauce. Taste and add salt only if needed. -
Serve Hot
Serve directly from the slow cooker or transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with additional chopped chives and serve warm.
Storage
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
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Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth
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Not ideal for freezing, as the cream sauce may separate
FAQ
Can I use russet potatoes instead?
Yes, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape better and give a creamier texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Cook fully, refrigerate, and reheat gently before serving.
Is this dish very salty?
Salt levels depend on the ranch seasoning and broth. Always taste before adding extra salt.
Can I add cheese?
Absolutely. Shredded cheddar or Parmesan can be stirred in at the end for extra richness.
Conclusion
Creamy Ranch Potatoes are proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With tender slow-cooked potatoes and a rich ranch-flavored cream sauce, this dish delivers familiar flavors with minimal effort. Whether served alongside a weeknight dinner or at a gathering, it’s a dependable recipe that’s sure to be requested again and again.
