There’s something incredibly comforting about a baked potato. Picture it: a fluffy, steaming interior, ready to be topped with anything from butter and sour cream to a hearty chili or fresh sautéed vegetables. The beauty of this Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes Recipe is that it allows you to prepare perfectly baked potatoes effortlessly. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious side dish or a satisfying main course ready to enjoy any day of the week.

Cooking potatoes in a slow cooker not only frees up your oven for other dishes, but it also allows the potatoes to cook evenly, resulting in a tender, creamy texture that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, these baked potatoes will be a hit.

The Upside of Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes Recipe

Slow cooking potatoes comes with an array of advantages. First and foremost, it’s incredibly convenient. You can simply wash and prep the potatoes, toss them in the slow cooker, and set it to cook while you go about your day. This method also enhances the flavor and texture of the potatoes. Using a slow cooker allows them to steam in their skins, preserving moisture and resulting in a fluffy interior.

Another great benefit is that you can make large batches. If you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is perfect. Plus, slow-cooked baked potatoes are incredibly versatile. You can dress them up in numerous ways, transforming them from a simple side dish to a hearty main course.

Ingredients at a Glance

To whip up these incredible baked potatoes, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

4-6 Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes – Choose potatoes that are similar in size for even cooking.
Olive oil – This adds flavor and helps create a crispy skin.
Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing the flavor of the potatoes.

Gear Checklist

Before you dive into this delicious recipe, make sure you have the following kitchen gear on hand:

Slow Cooker – A must-have for this recipe; choose one that fits all your potatoes comfortably.
Vegetable Scrubber – To clean the potatoes thoroughly before cooking.
Knife – For any necessary trimming or cutting.
Measuring Spoon – For measuring the olive oil and salt.

How to Prepare Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes Recipe:

Step 1: Clean the Potatoes

Start by washing the potatoes under cold water. Use a vegetable scrubber to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a towel.

Step 2: Prick the Potatoes

Using a fork, prick each potato several times on all sides. This will allow steam to escape during cooking, preventing any potential bursting.

Step 3: Coat with Olive Oil and Salt

In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and kosher salt. Brush this mixture over each potato, ensuring they are well coated. This step is crucial for achieving that deliciously seasoned skin.

Step 4: Place in Slow Cooker

Arrange the potatoes in the slow cooker. Make sure they fit snugly but are not overcrowded. You want them to cook evenly.

Step 5: Set the Slow Cooker

Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The cooking time will depend on the size of your potatoes and the heat of your slow cooker.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

After the cooking time is complete, check the potatoes for doneness. They should be tender when pierced with a fork. If they need more time, continue cooking and check every 15-30 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, carefully remove the potatoes from the slow cooker. Serve them hot with your favorite toppings!

Health-Conscious Tweaks

If you’re looking to make your baked potatoes a bit healthier, consider the following tweaks:

Use extra virgin olive oil for a boost of flavor and health benefits.
Substitute sea salt for kosher salt for a more mineral-rich option.
Top with Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a protein-rich, lower-fat alternative.
Incorporate fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added flavor without extra calories.

Little Things that Matter

Cooking baked potatoes in a slow cooker is straightforward, but a few little things can make a big difference:

Choosing the right potatoes is key. Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their starchiness, while Yukon Golds provide a buttery flavor and creamier texture.
Don’t skip the step of pricking the potatoes. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents any mess in your slow cooker.
Season the potatoes generously with salt for the best flavor. You can always add more toppings later, but well-seasoned skin is a must!
Allow the potatoes to cool slightly before serving. This makes them easier to handle and prevents burns.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

If you’re planning to meal prep or store any leftovers, here’s what you need to know:

You can store cooked baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply microwave them until warmed through or place them back in the slow cooker on low for about 30 minutes.

For meal prep, consider preparing a batch at the beginning of the week and using them throughout the week. They make a great base for various meals, from breakfast hash to loaded potato skins!

FAQ

Can I cook different types of potatoes together?

Yes, you can cook different types of potatoes together, but ensure they are similar in size for even cooking. Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes can be combined, but check for doneness since they may cook at slightly different rates.

Can I add other seasonings or toppings before cooking?

While it’s best to keep it simple for this recipe, you can certainly add other seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder to the olive oil mixture. However, it’s recommended to wait until after cooking to add toppings like cheese or sour cream.

How do I know when the potatoes are done cooking?

The potatoes are done when they are tender all the way through. You can check this by inserting a fork or knife into the center. If it goes in easily, they are ready to serve!

Can I use a smaller pot for fewer potatoes?

Absolutely! If you’re only making a few potatoes, a smaller slow cooker works just as well. Just make sure the potatoes are snug but not overcrowded to ensure they cook evenly.

Serve with These

Elevate your meal with these delicious pairings:

Wrap-Up

There you have it—a simple yet satisfying way to create perfectly baked potatoes using your slow cooker. This Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes Recipe is not only easy to follow but also adaptable to your taste and dietary needs. Whether you enjoy them as a side dish or dress them up as the star of your meal, you’ll love how versatile and delicious these baked potatoes can be.

Next time you find yourself in need of a cozy, comforting dish that requires minimal effort, turn to this recipe. It’s a true game-changer for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. Enjoy the fluffy goodness, and don’t forget to get creative with your toppings!