If you’re craving a hearty Southern-style comfort dish with bold flavor and minimal effort, Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes are just the thing. This recipe combines tender potatoes, crisp green beans, smoky sausage, and a buttery Cajun kick—all slow-cooked to perfection. I first tried a version of this dish at a family reunion in Louisiana, where everyone kept going back for “just one more scoop.” The beauty of this recipe is how the flavors mingle as it simmers away in your slow cooker, giving you a side (or even a main dish) that’s pure comfort in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:
- One-Pot Wonder – Potatoes, veggies, and protein all in the same crock pot.
- Smoky Cajun Flavor – A little spice, a lot of richness from butter and sausage.
- Effortless Cooking – Just chop, layer, and let the slow cooker do its thing.
- Feeds a Crowd – Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or Sunday gatherings.
With these simple ingredients and easy prep, you’ll be serving up Southern comfort without breaking a sweat.
The Story Behind Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes
Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes have roots in Southern Cajun cooking, where bold flavors and simple ingredients shine.
- The “swamp” in the name comes from the buttery, seasoned juices at the bottom of the pot.
- Traditionally made in a big cast-iron skillet over an open flame, now adapted for slow cookers.
- A popular side for fish fries, BBQs, and holiday gatherings across Louisiana and beyond.
- Often served as a stand-alone meal thanks to the sausage and hearty veggies.
Key Ingredients in Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes
- Small Potatoes – Tender, bite-sized, and perfect for soaking up buttery Cajun seasoning.
- Fresh Green Beans – Add color, crunch, and freshness to balance the richness.
- Smoked Sausage – Infuses the whole dish with a savory, smoky depth.
- Onion – Sweetens and enriches the broth-like cooking liquid.
- Butter – Creates the signature “swamp” of savory flavor at the bottom.
- Cajun/Creole Seasoning – Delivers the bold Southern flavor profile.
How to Make Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes
- Prep the Potatoes – Cut small potatoes in half, then place them in a large crock pot. Sprinkle with pepper and half of the Cajun/Creole seasoning.
- Add Butter – Place the stick of butter right on top of the potatoes so it melts down into the dish.
- Prep the Veggies – Cut green beans into 2–3 inch pieces (halving long beans, leaving short ones whole). Dice the onion.
- Layer Veggies – Add green beans and onion over the potatoes, then sprinkle with the remaining seasoning.
- Add the Sausage – Slice smoked sausage into rounds and layer over the vegetables.
- Slow Cook – Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 6 hours. Stir gently once each hour to mix flavors without breaking up the potatoes.
- Taste and Adjust – Before serving, taste for seasoning and add more if needed.
- Serve Warm – Enjoy straight from the crock pot or keep on the Warm setting until ready to eat.
Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes Tips and Twists
Cooking Tips:
- Use baby potatoes for the best texture.
- Stir gently to keep potatoes intact.
- Adjust seasoning to your spice tolerance.
- Use tongs to serve, letting excess liquid drip off.
- For more sauce, add ½ cup chicken broth before cooking.
Variations:
- Swap smoked sausage for andouille for extra Cajun kick.
- Add corn on the cob pieces for a low-country boil vibe.
- Stir in shredded cheese just before serving for a creamy twist.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
- Make-Ahead: Prep all ingredients the night before, store in separate containers, and assemble in the crock pot the next day.
Serving Suggestions
Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes make a fantastic side for BBQ ribs, smoked chicken, or grilled fish. For a full Cajun feast, serve with cornbread and coleslaw. You can also enjoy them as a one-bowl meal—just pair with a simple green salad and sweet iced tea for balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, but they may be softer than fresh.
2. What’s the best sausage for this recipe?
Smoked sausage or andouille both work well.
3. Can I skip the butter?
It’s key to the flavor, but you can reduce the amount slightly.
4. Is this dish spicy?
It’s mildly spicy—reduce Cajun seasoning for less heat.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need a larger crock pot (7–8 quarts).
Enjoy Your Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes
These Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes are Southern comfort food at its finest—tender potatoes, crisp green beans, smoky sausage, and Cajun-spiced buttery goodness in every bite. They’re perfect for family dinners, holiday spreads, or anytime you want a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that tastes like you’ve been in the kitchen all day.
Explore More Recipes
Love slow-cooked comfort food? Try our Smoked Spatchcock Chicken for a flavorful main, or pair with Grilled Chicken Wraps for a casual dinner. For dessert, our Best Carrot Cake Cookies make a sweet finish to the meal.
Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes with Sausage & Veggies
Ingredients
- 1.5 –2 lbs fresh green beans trimmed and cut into 2–3″ pieces
- 1.5 lbs small potatoes halved
- 1 large onion diced
- 1 lb smoked sausage sliced into rounds
- 1/2 cup 1 stick butter
- 1 tablespoon Cajun or Creole seasoning divided
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Add halved potatoes to a large crock pot. Sprinkle with pepper and half the Cajun seasoning.
- Place the stick of butter on top of the potatoes.
- Add green beans and diced onion over the potatoes. Sprinkle with remaining seasoning.
- Layer sliced smoked sausage on top.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 6 hours, stirring gently once each hour.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Keep on Warm setting until ready to serve.
Notes
Calories: 370
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 950mg
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 4g