Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Potatoes with Bacon
Tender red potatoes slow-cooked with ranch seasoning, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon pieces. This comforting side dish requires minimal prep and cooks hands-off in your slow cooker. The potatoes become perfectly tender while absorbing the savory ranch flavors, with melted cheese creating a creamy coating. The bacon adds smoky richness and crispy texture contrast. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or holiday gatherings when you need a crowd-pleasing side that frees up oven space.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds red potatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 oz ranch seasoning mixonion soup mix1:1
Different flavor profile but works well
- 1 ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¾ cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ½ cup green onion, diced
Instructions
- 1
Line slow cooker with foil
- 2
Wash and dice red potatoes and place in mixing bowl
- 3
Toss potatoes with oil to coat completely
- 4
Add ranch seasoning and toss until potatoes are coated
- 5
Mix in 1 cup of cheese and all cooked bacon
- 6
Transfer seasoned potatoes to slow cooker
- 7
Top with remaining cheese
- 8
Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours
- 9
Serve garnished with diced green onions
Tips
Line the slow cooker with foil for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking
Cut potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking throughout
Cook bacon ahead of time and store in refrigerator until ready to use
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days in covered container
Can assemble potatoes with seasonings up to 1 day ahead; add to slow cooker when ready to cook
Serve hot as side dish with grilled meats or roasted chicken
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the foil liner to avoid potatoes sticking to slow cooker
Cut potatoes uniformly to prevent some pieces from overcooking
Add cheese in stages to prevent it from burning on bottom
Substitutions
Different flavor profile but works well
FAQ
Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first. Cooking time may be slightly shorter, so check for doneness after 6 hours on low.
What if my potatoes seem too dry during cooking?
Add 2-3 tablespoons of butter or chicken broth if needed. The cheese should provide enough moisture normally.
How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in microwave or oven until heated through.