Why You’ll Love these Bacon-Loaded Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that practically makes itself, these Bacon-Loaded Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes might just become your new obsession.
What’s not to love about tender red potatoes bathed in melty cheddar and ranch seasoning, then crowned with crispy bacon bits?
I’m talking about set-it-and-forget-it convenience that transforms humble ingredients into a showstopper side dish.
Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings when you’d rather mingle than monitor the stove.
The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you kick back, maybe sip something invigorating, and enjoy the mouthwatering aroma filling your home.
What Ingredients are in Bacon-Loaded Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes?
The beauty of this crowd-pleasing comfort dish lies in its straightforward ingredient list. You probably have most of these items already hanging out in your kitchen, which makes it perfect for those nights when grocery shopping feels like climbing Mount Everest.
The combination of savory bacon, creamy cheese, and zesty ranch creates a flavor trifecta that transforms ordinary potatoes into something truly crave-worthy.
- 6 slices bacon
- 3 pounds red potatoes, chopped
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (1 cup for layering, ½ cup for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Ranch Seasoning and Salad Dressing Mix (or more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives (for garnish)
- Nonstick cooking spray
- Aluminum foil
When shopping for these ingredients, quality matters in a few key areas. Opt for thick-cut bacon if you can—it holds up better and provides more substantial bacon bits throughout the dish.
And while pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheddar melts more smoothly without those anti-caking agents getting in the way.
For the potatoes, red varieties work beautifully here because they hold their shape during the long cooking process, but Yukon golds would make a worthy substitute if that’s what you have on hand. The starch content is just right for creating that perfect tender-but-not-mushy texture we’re after.
How to Make these Bacon-Loaded Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes
Making these loaded potatoes couldn’t be simpler, and your slow cooker does most of the heavy lifting. Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees and lining a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Arrange 6 slices of bacon in a single layer on the prepared sheet, then bake until they’re irresistibly brown and crispy, about 12-14 minutes. Let the bacon cool before crumbling it into perfect little morsels of porky goodness. Honestly, you might want to cook an extra slice or two because “bacon tax” is real—we all know a few pieces mysteriously disappear between cooking and adding to recipes.
Next comes the slow cooker prep, which is all about creating delicious layers. Line your slow cooker with aluminum foil, leaving enough overhang to wrap around the potatoes later, and give it a generous coat of nonstick spray.
Layer one-third of your 3 pounds of chopped red potatoes evenly across the bottom, then sprinkle with one-third of your shredded cheddar (remember, we’re using 1 cup of the 1½ cups total here), one-third of the tablespoon of Ranch seasoning, and one-third of your crumbled bacon.
Repeat this layering process two more times until all ingredients are used, except for that reserved ½ cup of cheese we’ll need later. Can we take a moment to appreciate the beauty of these layers? Like a potato lasagna of sorts, with each layer promising pockets of flavor.
Cover the potato mixture with the overhanging foil, put the lid on your slow cooker, and let time work its magic. Cook on low heat for 7-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are perfectly tender when pierced with a fork.
For the grand finale, uncover your masterpiece, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top, and replace the lid for another 1-2 minutes until it melts into a gooey blanket. Garnish with 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Who knew something requiring so little effort could look so impressive when it hits the table?
Bacon-Loaded Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes Substitutions and Variations
While following the classic recipe creates a crowd-pleasing dish, creative substitutions can transform these bacon-loaded cheesy crockpot potatoes to suit nearly any dietary need or flavor preference.
Need a lighter version? Try turkey bacon or even vegetarian bacon bits.
Yukon gold potatoes offer a buttery alternative to red potatoes, and sweet potatoes bring a nutritional boost with gorgeous color.
Not a cheddar fan? Pepper jack adds heat, while gouda creates smokiness without the bacon.
The Ranch seasoning can be swapped for Italian herbs, taco seasoning, or a simple salt-pepper-garlic blend.
Dairy-free? Nutritional yeast provides that cheesy flavor without actual cheese.
What to Serve with Bacon-Loaded Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes
Because these hearty, indulgent bacon-loaded cheesy potatoes often serve as the star of any meal, pairing them with complementary dishes creates a balanced and satisfying spread.
I recommend serving these decadent potatoes with something light and fresh—perhaps a crisp green salad with vinaigrette or steamed broccoli to cut through the richness.
Grilled chicken, a simple roast, or even meatloaf makes for protein pairings that won’t compete with the potato’s bold flavors.
For brunch? Try alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
The key is balance. With something this cheesy and savory, you’ll want contrasting textures and lighter flavors nearby on the plate.
Final Thoughts
These bacon-loaded cheesy crockpot potatoes have become my go-to recipe for potlucks, family gatherings, and those nights when comfort food just calls your name.
There’s something magical about the combination of crispy bacon, melty cheese, and tender potatoes that simply can’t be beat.
I love how the slow cooker does all the work while I’m off handling other things. Isn’t that what we all need more of—delicious meals that practically make themselves?
The ranch seasoning adds that perfect flavor boost without any fuss. Trust me, you’ll want to bookmark this recipe for those times when you need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
