Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Potato Base
- 2½ pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (plus extra for greasing)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional but highly recommended)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
For the Cornbread Topping
- 1 (8.5-ounce) box cornbread mix (such as Jiffy)
- 1 large egg (or as directed on package)
- ⅓ cup milk (or as directed on package)
For the Slow Cooker
- Nonstick cooking spray or butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Grease the Slow Cooker
Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray or rub it with butter. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier later.
Step 2: Prep the Potatoes and Aromatics
Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized 1-inch chunks so they cook evenly. Thinly slice the onion and mince the garlic if using fresh.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes
Add the potatoes and sliced onion to the slow cooker. Sprinkle in the garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Gently toss everything together so the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Add the Liquid Base
In a small bowl, whisk together the broth, milk, and melted butter. Pour this mixture evenly over the potatoes.
If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the top at this stage for extra richness.
Step 5: Slow Cook the Potatoes
Cover and cook:
- On LOW: 4–5 hours
- On HIGH: 2–3 hours
The potatoes should be fork-tender but not mushy. Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so start checking early.
Step 6: Prepare the Cornbread Batter
About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornbread topping. In a medium bowl, combine the cornbread mix, egg, and milk according to package directions. Stir just until combined—small lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 7: Add the Cornbread Layer
Once the potatoes are tender, briefly remove the lid and gently stir the potato mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Carefully spoon the cornbread batter over the top, spreading it into an even layer. Do not stir—the cornbread should sit on top like a soft crust.
Step 8: Finish Cooking
Cover and cook on HIGH for 1 to 1½ hours, or until the cornbread is fully set in the center. A toothpick inserted into the cornbread should come out clean.
Avoid lifting the lid too often, as releasing heat can slow down the cooking process.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Turn off the slow cooker and let the dish rest, covered, for 5–10 minutes. Scoop down through the cornbread to get both the fluffy topping and the creamy potatoes in each serving.
Serve warm with extra butter, shredded cheese, sour cream, or hot sauce if desired.
Variations & Helpful Tips
Make-Ahead Tip
Chop the potatoes and onions the night before. Store potatoes submerged in water in the fridge to prevent browning. Drain before using.
Add Protein
Stir in cooked bacon, diced ham, sausage, or rotisserie chicken before adding the cornbread topping to make it a complete meal.
Add More Veggies
Mix in frozen peas, carrots, corn, or broccoli during the last hour of potato cooking for extra nutrition.
Extra Cheesy Version
Add another ½–1 cup of cheese to the potatoes before topping with cornbread. Sprinkle cheese on top of the cornbread for the last 10 minutes if you like a cheesy crust.
Spice It Up
Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced green chiles for heat. A drizzle of hot sauce on top is delicious.
Lighter Option
Use low-sodium broth, 2% milk, or unsweetened almond milk. Reduce or skip the cheese if desired.
Crispier Cornbread Top
If your slow cooker insert is oven-safe, place it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes at the end for a golden top—watch closely to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Potatoes with Cornbread recipe is the definition of cozy comfort food. It’s creamy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, with just enough cornbread to soak up all that rich potato goodness. Whether you serve it as a side dish or turn it into a full meal with added protein, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.