Slow Cooker Baked Potato Bar

Skip heating up the kitchen! These slow cooker baked potatoes come out perfectly tender with fluffy centers, making them the ultimate easy dinner. Set out a topping bar with all your favorite fixings, and everyone can build their own loaded potato.

No Sweat Summer Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Easy

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Family Friendly

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Leftovers

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Budget Friendly

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 6-7 Hours

Servings: 6–8

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • No oven required

  • Perfect for busy summer days

  • Great for feeding a crowd

  • Easy to customize for picky eaters

  • Makes an inexpensive dinner

Ingredients

Potatoes

  • 6 medium russet potatoes

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Toppings

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

  • 1 cup sour cream

  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced

  • 4 tablespoons butter

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

  • Steamed broccoli

  • Chili

  • Pulled pork

  • Buffalo chicken

  • Diced tomatoes

  • Jalapeños

  • Salsa

  • Ranch dressing

  • Chives

  • Crispy fried onions

Instructions

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the potatoes.

  2. Place potato on square piece of foil.

  3. Drizzle potato with olive oil, then sprinkle all over with kosher salt.

  4. Wrap potato in the foil.

  5. Place the potatoes directly into the slow cooker. Do not add water or line the slow cooker.

  6. Cover and cook:

    • LOW: 7–8 hours

    • HIGH: 4–5 hours

  7. The potatoes are done when a fork slides easily into the center.

  8. Slice each potato open, fluff the inside with a fork, and add butter, salt, and pepper.

  9. Top with cheddar cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions—or let everyone build their own loaded potato just the way they like it!

Michelle's Tips

  • Russet potatoes work best because they bake up light and fluffy.

  • Similar-sized potatoes cook more evenly.

  • If your potatoes are extra large, they may need an additional 30–60 minutes.

  • Leftover potatoes are perfect for breakfast hash, potato soup, or twice-baked potatoes.

Make It a Meal

Serve with:

  • Fresh fruit

  • A simple garden salad

  • Coleslaw

  • Corn on the cob

  • Rotisserie chicken

  • Grilled sausage

Storage

Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating

Microwave for 2–3 minutes, or warm in the air fryer at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook more than six potatoes?

Yes! Just make sure the lid closes completely. You may need to add 30–60 minutes of cooking time if the slow cooker is packed.

Can I freeze baked potatoes?

Absolutely. Let them cool completely, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 3 months.

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