Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes are truly a full meal in one pot! Featuring savory kielbasa, tender green beans, and perfectly seasoned potatoes, this recipe offers incredible simplicity and satisfying flavor. It’s a delightful crowd-pleaser that brings comfort to any table.
Discover the Viral Sensation: Easy Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes
If the uniquely catchy name “Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes” has recently crossed your social media feed, you’re not alone. This incredibly simple yet immensely satisfying dish took the internet by storm, achieving viral status on platforms like TikTok, thanks to innovative creators such as Southern Frugal Momma. While I can’t claim credit for originating this ingenious recipe, its undeniable appeal instantly inspired me to try it. It’s amazing how some of the most memorable dishes come with the wildest names – perhaps it’s part of their charm! And in this case, the name “Swamp Potatoes” perfectly captures its rustic, homely appearance. Don’t let the humble look fool you; beneath its unpretentious exterior lies a hearty, flavorsome meal that combines smoked sausage, succulent potatoes, and fresh green beans into a harmonious and fulfilling experience.
This recipe embodies the ultimate convenience of slow-cooker cooking. Imagine coming home to a warm, ready-to-eat dinner after a long day, with minimal prep and even less cleanup. Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes deliver exactly that. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully and cooked slowly, can transform into something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or just someone who appreciates effortless cooking, this dish promises to become a staple in your meal rotation. Its popularity stems from its foolproof nature and the comforting, deeply flavored results it consistently delivers, making it a perfect solution for weeknight dinners and casual gatherings alike.
I just finished this recipe and it was was fantastic and easy. I will be doing it more!
– William
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Swamp Potatoes Recipe
Beyond its viral fame and quirky name, Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes offer a myriad of compelling reasons to fall in love with them. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a practical solution for busy weeknights, a comforting dish for chilly evenings, and a surefire way to please even the most discerning palates. Here’s why this slow cooker delight deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire:
- Effortless Preparation: The true charm of a slow cooker meal lies in its minimal hands-on time. You simply spend a few minutes chopping and layering a handful of ingredients, toss them into the pot, and let your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting. This means significantly less stress in the kitchen and allows you to reclaim precious time for yourself, your family, or other activities you enjoy. It’s the ideal “set-it-and-forget-it” dinner.
- A True One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to a sink full of dirty dishes! This entire recipe cooks in a single pot, drastically cutting down on cleanup time. It’s a complete and balanced meal, combining protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates all in one vessel, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully as they simmer together.
- Rich and Hearty Flavor Profile: The harmonious combination of smoky, savory sausage, tender, yielding potatoes, and perfectly seasoned green beans creates a deeply satisfying and robust flavor. The Italian dressing seasoning mix is key, imparting an herbaceous, zesty, and slightly tangy kick that permeates every single bite, elevating the dish beyond simple components into a truly delightful culinary experience.
- Incredibly Customizable: While the core recipe for Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes is fantastic on its own, it’s also remarkably forgiving and adaptable. Don’t hesitate to experiment! Want to boost the vegetable content? Add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots. Prefer a different seasoning blend? Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist or Ranch seasoning for a creamy, zesty flavor both work wonderfully. This flexibility allows you to easily tailor the dish to your family’s specific tastes or make use of whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand.
- Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Featuring readily available and affordable ingredients like potatoes, smoked sausage, and canned green beans, this recipe is highly economical without making any compromises on taste or satisfaction. It’s a smart and practical choice for feeding a family generously or for efficient batch cooking to enjoy throughout the week, all without stretching your grocery budget.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: The comforting and versatile nature of Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes makes it suitable for almost any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard gathering, preparing a cozy family dinner after a busy day, or seeking an excellent option for meal prepping healthy lunches for the week, this dish fits the bill. Its warm, comforting qualities make it especially appealing during colder months, but its vibrant flavors are enjoyable all year round.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
While Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes are wonderfully fulfilling and complete as a stand-alone meal, you can easily round out your plate with a few simple additions to enhance the dining experience. A crisp, fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish, adding a touch of brightness and texture. Alternatively, some crusty French bread, garlic bread, or cornbread is perfect for soaking up the delicious, savory juices and seasonings from the slow cooker, ensuring no flavor goes to waste. For those who enjoy a bit more freshness, a simple side of steamed broccoli or a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables would also pair beautifully. If you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert, a fruit salad or a simple apple crisp would offer a delightful, light finish.
This recipe is incredibly versatile and open to a wide array of delicious additions! To significantly boost the vegetable content and introduce new textures, consider incorporating sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green work wonderfully), fresh mushrooms, diced carrots, or even corn kernels during the last hour of cooking. For an extra layer of richness and gooey goodness, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, or a blend of your favorite cheeses over the top during the final 30 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt into a luscious topping. Crumbled, crispy bacon bits make a fantastic crunchy garnish, adding another dimension of smoky flavor and texture. Fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley, chives, or thinly sliced green onions are excellent garnishes that introduce a burst of freshness and vibrant color just before serving, making the dish even more appealing.
Yukon Gold (yellow) potatoes are highly recommended for this recipe due to their creamy texture and superior ability to hold their shape well during the extended slow cooking process, preventing them from becoming overly mushy. However, if you don’t have them on hand, other types of potatoes can certainly work. Red potatoes are an excellent substitute as they also maintain their firmness and texture beautifully in the slow cooker, resulting in a satisfying bite. Small baby gold potatoes, when cut in half, are another great option as they cook evenly and offer a delightful, uniform texture. While russet potatoes are common, they tend to break down more easily and might result in a much softer, almost mashed potato-like consistency. Some people enjoy this texture, but if you prefer distinct potato chunks, opt for Yukon Golds or red potatoes.
If Italian seasoning isn’t available in your pantry, or if you’re simply looking to explore a different flavor profile, you have several delicious alternatives to keep your Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes exciting. A packet of Ranch Seasoning mix is a popular and incredibly tasty substitute, lending a creamy, garlicky, and herbaceous flavor that complements the other ingredients exceptionally well. Many users have also commented on the original viral video that Cajun seasoning would be fantastic, adding a spicy, bold kick and a touch of Southern flair. If you opt for Cajun seasoning, be mindful of its salt content, as it can often be quite high. You can also create your own custom herb blend using individual dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram, combined with garlic powder and onion powder. Always remember to taste your dish before adding any extra salt, especially when using pre-made seasoning mixes, as their sodium levels can vary widely.
Storing leftovers properly ensures you can savor this delicious meal for several days to come. Once the Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes have cooled completely, transfer them into an airtight container. They can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it’s time to reheat, you have a few convenient options. For individual servings, the microwave works efficiently; simply heat in 30-second intervals, stirring gently in between, until the dish is thoroughly warmed through. If reheating a larger portion, you can use a skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. Adding a splash of water or broth can help if the mixture seems too dry, and stir occasionally to ensure even heating. For an even more thorough reheat, especially if you desire a slightly crispy exterior on the potatoes, you can spread the leftovers evenly on a baking sheet and warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until bubbling hot.
INGREDIENTS NEEDED:
Crafting these comforting Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes requires a straightforward list of ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at any local grocery store. Here’s a detailed look at each component and why it’s essential for creating this flavorful, one-pot meal:
- Yellow Potatoes: Approximately 2 pounds, cut into quarters. Yellow potatoes, particularly varieties like Yukon Golds, are an excellent choice for this recipe. Their creamy interior and relatively firm texture ensure they hold their shape beautifully without becoming overly mushy during the long cooking process in the slow cooker. For other excellent potato options, or if you only have red potatoes available, please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions section above for suitable substitutions and textural considerations.
- Essential Seasoning Blend: This foundational blend provides a robust and well-rounded flavor to the potatoes and the entire dish.
- Salt and Black Pepper: These are fundamental flavor enhancers that bring out the best in all ingredients, balancing the richness of the sausage and butter.
- Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These offer essential aromatic depth and savory notes, infusing the potatoes and vegetables with a warm, inviting flavor as they slowly cook.
- Smoked Paprika: While the original recipe often calls for regular paprika, I highly recommend using smoked paprika. It imparts an extra layer of rich, subtly smoky flavor that complements the kielbasa beautifully and adds complexity. However, if regular paprika is what you have on hand, it will still yield a delicious dish.
- Yellow Onion: ½ cup, diced. As the onions slowly cook down in the crock pot, they caramelize slightly, adding a delicate sweetness and pungent depth that enhances the overall savory profile of the dish. If you’re not a fan of a strong onion flavor, a finely diced shallot can offer a milder alternative. Alternatively, you can choose to omit the onion entirely without significantly compromising the core flavors, especially if you’re sensitive to it.
- Smoked Sausage: A 12-ounce package, sliced into rounds. This is the star protein of this hearty dish! Varieties such as kielbasa, Andouille sausage (if you prefer a spicier kick), or even turkey sausage can work exceptionally well, each bringing its unique flavor profile. I personally used a beef smoked sausage, which contributed a fantastic savory and rich taste to the meal. Choose your favorite type of smoked sausage for the best results, as its flavor will permeate the entire dish.
- Canned Green Beans: 2 (14.5 ounce) cans, well-drained. Canned green beans are chosen here for their ultimate convenience and their ability to become wonderfully tender in the slow cooker, though they do soften considerably and might “fall apart” a bit, which contributes to the rustic, comforting appeal of this dish. The original viral recipe actually called for fresh green beans (about 1.5 pounds), snapped in half and placed at the bottom of the pot. You can certainly use fresh or even frozen green beans if you prefer a firmer texture; simply add them as directed. Ensure canned beans are thoroughly drained to prevent excess liquid in your slow cooker. If green beans aren’t your preference, feel free to exclude them.
- Italian Dressing Seasoning Mix: One 0.6-ounce packet. This seasoning mix is a powerhouse of flavor, containing a convenient blend of dried herbs and spices (like oregano, basil, thyme, garlic, and onion) that seamlessly ties all the ingredients together with a zesty, herbaceous, and slightly tangy note. You can use any brand you enjoy, or even a homemade Italian dressing seasoning blend if you prefer. As mentioned in our FAQ section, Ranch Seasoning is a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for a different, creamy flavor profile, and some culinary enthusiasts also suggest Cajun seasoning for a bolder, spicier taste.
- Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (1 stick). Butter adds a crucial element of richness and helps create a savory, luscious sauce as it melts and blends with the other ingredients, contributing to the dish’s comforting mouthfeel. While unsalted butter gives you greater control over the overall saltiness of the dish, salted butter can certainly be used if that’s what you have on hand, as it contains a relatively small amount of salt that shouldn’t overwhelm the flavors. If you’re looking to reduce the fat content, you can easily cut the amount of butter in half; the dish will still turn out nicely flavorful and moist.
HOW TO MAKE CROCK POT SWAMP POTATOES: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these comforting Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes is incredibly straightforward, making it an ideal recipe for busy days when you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal without the fuss. Follow these simple steps for a delicious and hassle-free slow cooker experience that will quickly become a new family favorite:
- Prepare and Place Potatoes: Begin by thoroughly washing approximately 2 pounds of yellow potatoes to remove any dirt. Once clean, cut the potatoes into quarters, ensuring that the pieces are relatively uniform in size for consistent cooking. Carefully place all the quartered potatoes directly into the bottom of your slow cooker. These will form the flavorful foundation of our delicious meal.
- Season the Potatoes: Evenly sprinkle the potatoes with your carefully chosen seasoning blend: 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. These aromatic spices will deeply infuse the potatoes with incredible flavor as they slowly cook to tender perfection.
- Add Onions and Mix: Distribute ½ cup of finely diced yellow onions evenly over the seasoned potatoes in the slow cooker. Take a moment to give everything a good stir, ensuring that the potatoes and onions are well combined and thoroughly coated with the spices. This step helps distribute the savory flavors evenly throughout the dish from the start.
- Layer Smoked Sausage: Next, arrange the sliced 12-ounce package of smoked sausage (whether kielbasa, Andouille, or your preferred variety) in an even, single layer over the potato and onion mixture. As the sausage cooks, it will render its savory juices, further enriching the flavors of the entire dish below.
- Incorporate Green Beans: Thoroughly drain the 2 (14.5 ounce) cans of cut green beans to remove any excess liquid. Once drained, add them into the slow cooker, scattering them gently over the layer of sausage. These green beans will become wonderfully tender and absorb the delicious flavors as they cook alongside the other ingredients.
- Season with Italian Dressing Mix: Evenly sprinkle the entire 0.6-ounce packet of Italian dressing seasoning mix over all the ingredients currently in the slow cooker. This powerful seasoning blend is a key flavor component that helps to unify and elevate all the tastes in the dish, providing a zesty and herbaceous finish.
- Add Butter: Place the ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter directly on top of the ingredients in the slow cooker. You can leave the stick whole, as it will gracefully melt down and distribute its rich flavor and moisture throughout the dish during cooking. If you prefer, you can also slice it into smaller pats for quicker melting and distribution.
- Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid firmly onto your slow cooker. Cook the Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes on the LOW setting for 6-7 hours, or, if you’re in a bit more of a hurry, cook on the HIGH setting for 3-4 hours. The goal is to cook until the potatoes are wonderfully tender and all the magnificent flavors have thoroughly melded together. Remember that cooking times may vary slightly based on your specific slow cooker model, so check for potato tenderness before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked to your liking, carefully remove the lid, give the dish a final gentle stir to combine all the tender ingredients and rich sauce. Serve hot and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions if desired for a touch of color and freshness. Enjoy this incredibly simple, hearty, and unbelievably flavorful Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes meal!
CRAVING MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES?
If you’ve enjoyed the comforting simplicity and robust flavors of Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes, you’re in for a treat with these other fantastic recipes. Explore more hearty, easy-to-make meals that celebrate flavorful ingredients and the unparalleled convenience of slow cooking, sheet pan preparation, and skillet meals. These dishes are perfect for expanding your repertoire of family favorites:
- Crock Pot Kielbasa and Potatoes
- Slow Cooker Mississippi Kielbasa
- Kielbasa and Tortellini Skillet
- Mississippi Mud Potatoes
- Baked Potato Casserole
- Funeral Potatoes
- Cowboy Butter Potatoes
- Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes
- Southern Fried Potatoes
- Crunchy Roasted Potatoes
- Bacon Cheddar Potatoes
- Scalloped Potatoes
- Crock Pot Loaded Potatoes
- Kielbasa Sheet Pan Meal
Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes
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10 minutes
6 hours
6 hours
10 minutes
6
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 2 pounds yellow potatoes (cut into quarters, see notes below)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- ½ cup diced yellow onions
- 12 ounce package smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans cut green beans (drained well, see notes below)
- .6 ounce packet Italian dressing seasoning mix
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
Instructions
- Scrub 2 pounds yellow potatoes with water and then cut them into quarters. Then place them in the bottom of a slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the potatoes with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika.
- Add 1/2 cup diced yellow onions on top of the potatoes and mix everything together.
- Layer 12 ounce package smoked sausage, sliced over the potatoes and onions.
- Drain 2 (14.5 ounce) cans cut green beans and add them to the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle .6 ounce packet Italian dressing seasoning mix evenly over the top of the ingredients.
- Place 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter on top (I leave it whole but you can slice it up if you prefer.)
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender. Serve and enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Please refer to my FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) and detailed ingredient list above for other substitutions or for answers to the most common questions.
- You can use fresh or frozen green beans. If opting for fresh or frozen, you’d want to use about 1.5 pounds for a similar quantity. I included a video in this recipe card that demonstrates how it’s made with fresh green beans.
- For an alternative potato option, you can use baby gold potatoes and simply cut them in half instead of quartering larger potatoes.
Dinner, Lunch, Main Course, Side Dish
American
Nutrition
Calories: 1271kcal
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Carbohydrates: 52g
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Protein: 24g
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Fat: 115g
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Sodium: 897mg
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Fiber: 19g
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Sugar: 7g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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