Introduction
Welcome to a cozy recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite! These Slow Cooker Amish Evaporated Milk Baby Potatoes are not only simple to prepare, but they also offer a delightful burst of creaminess that will warm your heart and fill your home with an irresistible aroma. Imagine tender baby potatoes bathed in rich evaporated milk, complemented by the subtle flavor of butter and a sprinkle of salt. These potatoes make an excellent side dish for any meal, and they’re especially perfect for gatherings when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 pounds small baby potatoes, scrubbed and left whole (or halved if large)
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes to 6 hours
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Rinse the baby potatoes under cool water, scrubbing away any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. If any potatoes are larger than 1 1/2 inches, slice them in half to ensure even cooking.
- Lightly grease the inside of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker with a small dab of butter or a quick spray of cooking oil, which helps prevent sticking and simplifies cleanup.
- Place the raw baby potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker, nestled snug but still in a single layer or slightly mounded.
- Scatter the remaining pieces of butter evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle the kosher salt on top, ensuring it seasons both the potatoes and the cooking liquid.
- Slowly pour the can of evaporated milk over the raw potatoes, allowing it to drizzle through the gaps – the potatoes should not be fully submerged; they will release their moisture while cooking.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on LOW for 4 1/2 to 5 1/2 hours, or on HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, until the potatoes are very tender when pierced with a fork. Avoid lifting the lid during the first couple of hours to maintain heat and steam.
- Once the potatoes are tender, gently stir from the bottom with a broad spoon, ensuring each potato is coated in the thickened evaporated milk and butter sauce. Taste the sauce and add a pinch more salt if desired.
- Let the potatoes sit on the WARM setting for 10 to 15 minutes before serving; this resting time allows the sauce to thicken slightly as the starch from the potatoes mingles with the milk.
- Serve the potatoes hot, directly from the slow cooker, making sure to spoon plenty of that creamy sauce over each portion for an extra indulgent bite.
Notes or Tips
For added flavor, consider tossing in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before serving. You can also sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for a rich, savory finish. If you prefer your potatoes with a bit more texture, leave some of them uncut. Enjoy experimenting with this comforting dish!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe is a fantastic way to utilize the slow cooker, which helps develop flavors with minimal effort. The evaporated milk creates a beautifully creamy sauce that captures the essence of home cooking. Keeping the lid closed during the first hours of cooking ensures that steam builds up for perfectly tender potatoes. Stirring gently at the end helps to combine the flavors without breaking the potatoes.
FAQ
Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?
While you can use regular milk, it won’t create the same richness and creamy texture that evaporated milk provides. If necessary, consider thickening regular milk with a bit of cornstarch.
What can I serve with these potatoes?
These creamy potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. They make an excellent side dish for barbecue nights or holiday feasts!
Conclusion
These Slow Cooker Amish Evaporated Milk Baby Potatoes are a true testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together in a cozy, effortless way. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to bring smiles and satisfied appetites to the table. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s create some creamy comfort on a plate that everyone will love!