Bacon and Cheddar Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes – The Easiest Loaded Potato Recipe Ever
If you love classic loaded baked potatoes but want a completely hands-off cooking method, these Bacon and Cheddar Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes will become your new go-to recipe. With crispy bacon, melty cheddar cheese, fluffy potato centers, and all your favorite toppings, this foolproof crockpot method delivers perfectly cooked potatoes every single time—no oven required.
Perfect for busy weeknights, game nights, potlucks, or comforting family dinners, these slow cooker loaded potatoes are simple, customizable, and incredibly satisfying.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
Almost zero prep—just season, wrap, and cook
No oven heating required
Great for feeding a crowd
Perfect fluffy interiors every time
Loaded with bacon, cheese, butter, and sour cream
Easily customizable
Ingredients You Need
4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 tablespoons butter
½ cup sour cream
4 green onions, chopped
How to Make Bacon & Cheddar Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes (Step-by-Step)
Follow this easy guide to get soft, fluffy, perfectly seasoned potatoes every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Using a fork, poke each russet potato several times.
This step is important—it allows steam to escape during cooking so the potatoes cook evenly.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
Rub each potato with olive oil, then sprinkle them with salt and pepper.
The oil helps the skins stay soft while absorbing flavor.
Step 3: Wrap the Potatoes
Wrap each potato tightly in aluminum foil.
This locks in moisture and allows the potatoes to steam gently inside the slow cooker.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Fluffy Perfection
Place the foil-wrapped potatoes into the slow cooker in a single layer.
Cook on:
LOW: 7–8 hours
HIGH: 4–5 hours
When a fork slides easily into the center, they’re done.
Step 5: Open and Fluff
Carefully remove the potatoes—they will be hot.
Unwrap each potato, slice it open, and gently fluff the inside with a fork to create a soft, cloud-like center.
Step 6: Load With Toppings
Top each potato with:
Butter
Cheddar cheese
Crispy crumbled bacon
Sour cream
Chopped green onions
The heat from the potatoes will melt the cheese beautifully.
Serve warm and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
Serving Suggestions
These slow cooker baked potatoes pair well with:
Grilled chicken or steak
BBQ ribs or pulled pork
Chili spooned on top
A side salad or steamed vegetables
Soup for a full cozy meal
They’re also great for potato bars at parties and gatherings.
Variations & Tips
Try Different Cheeses
Switch cheddar with:
Gouda
Mozzarella
Pepper jack
Colby jack
Healthier Options
Swap ingredients to lighten it up:
Greek yogurt instead of sour cream
Turkey bacon instead of regular bacon
Reduced-fat cheese
Add More Flavor
Top with:
Jalapeños
Ranch dressing
Diced tomatoes
Chives
Hot sauce
Potato Tips
Russets are the best choice because they cook fluffy and soft—perfect for loading with toppings.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers for 3–4 days.
Reheat: In the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months (best without toppings).
Final Thoughts
These Bacon and Cheddar Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes turn a simple potato into a fully loaded, flavor-packed meal. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing all the work, you get restaurant-style baked potatoes with almost no effort. Perfect for busy families, gatherings, or anyone craving comfort food!