Easy Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes Recipe

Easy Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes are a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you need a side dish without fuss. Using a slow cooker to bake potatoes gives them a tender, fluffy interior without the need to turn on the oven. This hands-off method is perfect for making baked potatoes while you focus on other things, and the best part is that you can cook several potatoes at once with little effort. Top them with your favorite fixings for a simple and satisfying meal.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Baked potatoes are a timeless side dish that pairs well with almost any main course. They can also easily be transformed into a full meal by adding a variety of toppings. By using a slow cooker, you not only free up your oven but also get consistently tender potatoes that can be prepared ahead of time and kept warm until ready to serve. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a family meal, slow cooker baked potatoes are sure to be a hit.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Tips for Perfect Baked Potatoes
• Recipe Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 4-6 medium russet potatoes
• 1-2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Aluminum foil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. Use a fork to poke a few holes into each potato to allow steam to escape during cooking. This step is crucial to prevent the potatoes from bursting during cooking.
2. Season the Potatoes: Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt. This will help create a flavorful skin. The olive oil also helps the skin become slightly crispy, adding texture to the finished potato.
3. Wrap in Foil: Wrap each potato individually in aluminum foil to keep the moisture in and help the potatoes cook evenly. Wrapping the potatoes also helps keep them warm longer after cooking, making them perfect for serving at gatherings.
4. Slow Cook: Place the wrapped potatoes in the slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer if possible, but it’s okay if they’re stacked. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
5. Cook: Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Cooking on low heat yields the best results, as the potatoes cook gently and evenly, resulting in a perfectly fluffy interior.
6. Serve: Carefully unwrap the potatoes (they will be hot!) and serve with your favorite toppings, such as butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, bacon bits, or chives. You can also cut a slit down the middle of each potato and fluff the interior with a fork to make it extra fluffy before adding toppings.

Tips for Perfect Baked Potatoes

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best for baking because of their starchy texture, which results in a fluffy interior. Yukon Gold potatoes can also work, but they will have a creamier texture compared to russets.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the slow cooker. If you need to cook a large batch, be mindful that it may take a bit longer for them to cook evenly. Ensure there is enough space for the heat to circulate around each potato.
• Check for Doneness: Use a fork to check for tenderness. The potatoes should be soft all the way through when done. If they are still firm in the center, continue cooking for another 30-60 minutes.
• Keep Them Warm: If your meal isn’t quite ready when the potatoes are done, you can keep them warm in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting for up to an hour without overcooking them.

Recipe Variations

• Herb-Infused Potatoes: Rub the potatoes with dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano along with the olive oil for extra flavor. This gives the potatoes a fragrant aroma and pairs well with roasted meats.
• Loaded Baked Potatoes: Top with shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for a classic loaded baked potato. This variation can easily turn a simple side dish into a satisfying main course.
• Garlic Parmesan Potatoes: Add garlic powder and grated Parmesan to the olive oil before rubbing the potatoes for a garlicky, cheesy flavor. This variation adds a rich umami flavor that complements the fluffy potato interior.
• Chili-Stuffed Potatoes: Slice the baked potatoes open and fill them with a hearty chili. Top with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream for a comforting and filling meal.
• BBQ Chicken Potatoes: Shred cooked chicken and mix with barbecue sauce. Stuff the baked potatoes with the BBQ chicken mixture and top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions for a flavorful twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other types of potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use other types of potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but the texture will be slightly different compared to russet potatoes. Yukon Golds will have a creamier texture, while red potatoes will be more waxy.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also slice them and fry them up for a quick hash the next morning.

Q: Can I cook more than six potatoes at once?
A: Yes, but be mindful that cooking a larger quantity may increase the cooking time slightly. Ensure the potatoes are cooked until tender by testing with a fork. If cooking a lot, it may be helpful to rotate the potatoes halfway through cooking for even results.

Q: Do I need to add water to the slow cooker?
A: No, you don’t need to add water to the slow cooker. The moisture from the potatoes and the sealed environment of the slow cooker will keep them from drying out.

Q: Can I cook sweet potatoes in the slow cooker using this method?
A: Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can be cooked in the slow cooker using the same method. They may cook a bit faster than russet potatoes, so check for tenderness earlier.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Toppings: Serve with butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, and bacon bits for a classic baked potato experience.
• Vegetarian Option: Top with steamed broccoli, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a delicious vegetarian option.
• Tex-Mex Style: Add black beans, corn, salsa, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese for a Tex-Mex inspired baked potato. Finish with a dollop of guacamole or sour cream.
• Breakfast Baked Potato: Use leftover baked potatoes in the morning by topping them with scrambled eggs, crumbled sausage, and a sprinkle of cheese. It’s a hearty breakfast option that’s both filling and delicious.
• Healthy Option: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and top with sautéed spinach and garlic for a healthier twist.

Easy Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes are a hassle-free way to enjoy this classic side dish without heating up your oven. They come out perfectly tender and are easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re serving them alongside a main course or turning them into loaded baked potatoes, this simple slow cooker method will quickly become a go-to for your kitchen. The versatility of baked potatoes allows you to create a variety of meals that suit different tastes and dietary needs. Give it a try and enjoy the convenience of perfectly baked potatoes every time!

Slow cooking is an ideal way to prepare baked potatoes without the fuss of checking on them frequently. From classic flavors to creative toppings, these baked potatoes are sure to satisfy. Experiment with different seasonings, toppings, and combinations to find your favorite version of this comforting dish. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness that these slow cooker baked potatoes bring to your table