Crockpot Loaded Potatoes

These Crockpot Loaded Potatoes are a cozy, comforting dish that captures all the flavors of a classic loaded baked potato — with the bonus of slow-cooked creaminess. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, the tender potatoes soak up the rich blend of sour cream, cheese, and crispy bacon in every bite. It’s hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to prepare. What makes this dish truly special is the balance between convenience and indulgence. With just a few minutes of prep and a few hours in your slow cooker, you’re rewarded with a rich, savory creation that’s equally suited for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Whether you serve it as a crowd-pleasing side or a comforting main, it’s bound to become a favorite.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

3 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Directions:

Wash and cut the baby potatoes. Add them to the crockpot.
Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Cover and cook on high for 2.5 to 3 hours or on low for 5 to 6 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
In a bowl, mix together the sour cream and mayonnaise until smooth.
Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the sour cream-mayo mix until well combined.
Add half the shredded cheese and half the bacon. Stir again.
Top with remaining cheese and bacon, then cover and cook on low for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese melts.
Before serving, sprinkle with green onions and fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 3 hours | Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 390 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Comforting Charm of Crockpot Loaded Potatoes

Crockpot Loaded Potatoes bring together everything we love about comfort food — rich, creamy textures, savory flavors, and the heartwarming satisfaction of a homemade dish. This recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional loaded baked potato but made effortlessly in a slow cooker. It’s perfect for people who want maximum flavor with minimal effort. Using baby potatoes, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and seasonings, this dish delivers a depth of flavor that hits all the right notes.

What makes this recipe especially enticing is how it takes a classic American side dish and turns it into something even more versatile and indulgent. Whether served as a hearty side for grilled meats or as a satisfying vegetarian main (minus the bacon), Crockpot Loaded Potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser.

A Glimpse into the Origins of Loaded Potatoes

Loaded potatoes — typically referring to baked potatoes topped with butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon, and green onions — are an iconic staple in American cuisine. They gained popularity in the mid-20th century, especially at steakhouse restaurants and Southern diners. Known for their rich flavors and ability to pair with almost anything, they evolved over time to include a variety of ingredients and cooking methods.

By shifting the preparation from the oven to the slow cooker, this recipe offers all the classic flavor with a modern twist. This crockpot version captures the same decadence but adds a hands-off convenience that works perfectly for today’s busy lifestyles.

Why This Recipe Stands Out Among the Rest

This isn’t just another potato dish — this recipe is the epitome of flavor and ease. Here’s what makes it truly special:

Convenience: You can set it and forget it. Simply toss the ingredients into the crockpot, walk away, and come back to a warm, cheesy, delicious dish.
Texture: The slow cooking method allows the potatoes to become tender while still holding their shape, creating a luxurious mouthfeel with every bite.
Flavor Fusion: The combination of garlic, onion powder, sour cream, mayo, cheddar, and bacon creates a creamy, salty, and tangy experience that’s hard to beat.
Customizable: Vegetarian? Omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions. Want to spice it up? Add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean means more time to enjoy your meal.

Health Benefits (Yes, Even Comfort Food Has Some!)

While this recipe is certainly indulgent, it also offers a few surprising nutritional perks when enjoyed in moderation:

Potatoes are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber (especially if you keep the skins on).
Cheddar cheese provides calcium and protein.
Green onions and parsley add freshness, antioxidants, and a pop of color and nutrition.

You can also make this dish lighter by using reduced-fat cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Crockpot Loaded Potatoes shine in just about every setting:

Potlucks: Everyone loves a cheesy potato dish, and this one travels well.
Weeknight Dinners: Pair with grilled chicken or steak for a no-fuss meal.
Holiday Gatherings: It’s a hit on Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner tables, offering a rich and satisfying side.
Game Day: Serve with wings, sliders, or chili for the ultimate party spread.
Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store in the fridge — it reheats beautifully.

Tips and Tricks for Best Results

To elevate your Crockpot Loaded Potatoes, consider these expert tips:

Don’t overcook: Depending on your slow cooker’s strength, you may want to check the potatoes at the 2.5-hour mark to avoid mushiness.
Layer wisely: Stir in half the cheese and bacon, then top with the rest at the end. This ensures gooey bites throughout and a visually appealing presentation.
Use the right potatoes: Baby potatoes hold their shape well and don’t require peeling, making them ideal for slow cooking.
Add finishing touches: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives brighten up the dish and cut through the richness.
Go gourmet: For a fancier version, use a blend of cheeses like gruyère or smoked gouda and garnish with truffle oil or crispy shallots.

Custom Variations to Suit Every Palate

This dish’s flexibility is one of its best features. Try one of these twists to keep it interesting:

Tex-Mex Style: Add chopped jalapeños, taco seasoning, and pepper jack cheese. Top with sliced avocado and a dollop of salsa.
Broccoli Cheddar: Mix in steamed broccoli florets and swap some cheddar for sharp white cheddar.
Buffalo Ranch: Stir in buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning, and finish with blue cheese crumbles.
Mushroom & Thyme: Sauté mushrooms with fresh thyme and garlic, then stir into the potatoes for a rich, earthy flavor.

Budget-Friendly and Crowd-Approved

This dish offers amazing value — both in flavor and cost. Potatoes are affordable and filling, and you likely already have many of the other ingredients on hand. Plus, it feeds a crowd without requiring gourmet skills. Whether you’re cooking for a family of four or a group of hungry guests, this recipe delivers.

Make It Ahead or Reheat Like a Pro

Crockpot Loaded Potatoes are a dream for meal planning. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of milk or extra sour cream to refresh the creaminess if needed.
Freezing: Not recommended, as potatoes can get mealy when thawed, but leftovers will keep well in the fridge.

Conclusion

Crockpot Loaded Potatoes combine comfort, simplicity, and taste in one irresistibly cheesy dish. They honor the nostalgic flavors of a loaded baked potato while providing the hands-off cooking ease modern home cooks crave. Whether you’re looking to feed a hungry family, impress your potluck crowd, or just indulge in something delicious and easy, this recipe delivers every single time. With just a few ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a rich, flavorful side (or main dish!) that brings joy with every bite. Would you like help formatting this as a downloadable PDF or converting it into a printable recipe card for your site?