Indulge in a comforting and flavorful dish with Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes. This recipe combines the rich taste of cheddar cheese, savory bacon, and the tangy goodness of ranch seasoning, all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon
- 3 pounds red potatoes, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon Ranch Seasoning and Salad Dressing Mix
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven until the bacon is brown and crispy, usually about 12-14 minutes. Allow the bacon to cool before crumbling it; then set it aside.
- Line your slow cooker with aluminum foil, leaving enough to overhang to wrap the potatoes on top, and coat it with nonstick spray.
- Layer the chopped potatoes evenly into the slow cooker. Top the potatoes with a portion of the shredded cheese, Ranch Seasoning, and crumbled bacon. Repeat these layers two more times, reserving 1/2 cup of cheese.
- Cover the potatoes with aluminum foil and cook them on low heat for 7-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top. Cover the slow cooker again and cook until the cheese is melted, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes.
- Serve the delicious cheesy bacon ranch potatoes immediately, garnished with chopped chives.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of additional ranch seasoning before serving.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
- Ensure that the aluminum foil is properly sealed around the potatoes to keep them moist and tender during cooking.
- Consider adding diced onions or minced garlic for added depth of flavor.
Conclusion:
Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes are a delightful combination of savory ingredients that make for a satisfying and easy-to-prepare meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the creamy textures, the crispy bacon, and the zesty ranch flavor in every bite!
- Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
- Absolutely! While red potatoes work well due to their creamy texture and thin skin, you can certainly use other types of potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes are another excellent choice for their creamy texture and slightly buttery flavor. Russet potatoes can also be used, but they may require longer cooking times due to their denser texture. Feel free to experiment with different potato varieties based on your preference and availability.
- Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate it before cooking?
- Yes, you can definitely prepare the layers of potatoes, cheese, and bacon ahead of time and refrigerate them before cooking. Simply follow the instructions up to the point of covering the slow cooker with aluminum foil. Once you’ve layered the ingredients, cover the slow cooker with plastic wrap or its lid and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to cook, simply place the slow cooker insert back into the base and cook according to the recipe instructions. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly if the ingredients are cold from refrigeration, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
- Absolutely! While bacon adds a delicious savory flavor to this dish, you can easily make it vegetarian-friendly by omitting the bacon altogether. Instead, you can add other flavorful ingredients such as diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or caramelized onions to enhance the taste of the potatoes. Additionally, consider incorporating vegetarian bacon alternatives made from ingredients like tempeh or seitan for a similar smoky flavor. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, and you’ll still end up with a deliciously cheesy and flavorful potato dish that everyone can enjoy.
- Can I convert this recipe for the oven instead of using a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the oven if you prefer. To do so, follow the instructions for layering the potatoes, cheese, and bacon in a baking dish instead of a slow cooker. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown slightly. Once done, garnish with chopped chives and serve hot. This method produces equally delicious cheesy bacon ranch potatoes with a slightly different texture compared to the slow cooker version.