Crockpot Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes
Looking for a side dish that’s easy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor? Look no further than these Crockpot Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, as the slow cooker does all the work.
The combination of creamy ranch dressing mix, melty cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon creates a flavor profile that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, this recipe is easily customizable. Prefer a richer dish? Add a dollop of sour cream.Don’t have ranch dressing mix? Whip up your own with common pantry staples.
This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free adaptable. For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free ranch dressing mix.To make it dairy-free, choose a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a vegan sour cream substitute (if using).
So ditch the stress and throw these ingredients into your slow cooker. In a few hours, you’ll have a delicious and comforting side dish ready to enjoy!
Questions I often get asked about this recipe:
Can I use a different type of potato?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests russet or red potatoes, you can experiment with Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture or even sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness.
I don’t have ranch dressing mix. What can I use instead?
No problem! You can make your own ranch seasoning by combining dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. There are many online recipes for homemade ranch seasoning with specific measurements.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon. You can add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
How can I make this dish crispier?
If you prefer a bit more crispness to the potatoes, you can brown them slightly in a pan with some oil before adding them to the slow cooker.
Can I cook this recipe on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook this recipe on high for 3-4 hours. However, cooking on low for a longer time will result in more tender potatoes.
Can I add any other toppings?
Of course! Chopped green onions, crumbled cooked sausage, or a dollop of sour cream are all delicious additions.
What you need to make Crockpot Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes:
6 slices bacon, chopped
3 pounds russet potatoes (or red potatoes), peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
How to make it:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels to drain.
Lightly grease your crockpot with cooking spray. Add the chopped potatoes to the slow cooker.
In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix with 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour this mixture evenly over the potatoes in the slow cooker.
Sprinkle the cooked bacon over the potatoes.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Cover the crockpot and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes.
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh chives (optional).
Tips:
You can use any type of potato you like for this recipe. Russet potatoes will become creamier, while red potatoes will hold their shape a bit better.
If you don’t have ranch dressing mix, you can make your own by combining 1/2 teaspoon dried dill, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, and a pinch of black pepper.
For a richer flavor, you can add a cup of sour cream to the crockpot with the ranch dressing mix and cheese.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Latest Reviews:
This recipe is a lifesaver! Busy mom of three here, and these potatoes are perfect. Throw everything in before work and dinner is practically done! Kids devoured them, will definitely make again. Eileen R.
Made this for a potluck last weekend and it was a huge hit! Everyone loved the cheesy bacon flavor. Added some chopped green onions for a pop of color and it looked beautiful. Definitely recommend! John M.
Skeptical about slow cooker potatoes at first. But these changed my mind! So creamy and flavorful, and the bacon adds a nice salty touch. Used my homemade ranch mix and it worked perfectly. Thanks for the recipe! Lisa M.
Printable Recipe:
Crockpot Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes
This recipe is a delicious and easy side dish perfect for any occasion. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with creamy, cheesy potatoes bursting with bacon flavor.
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 pounds russet potatoes (or red potatoes), peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels to drain.
- Lightly grease your crockpot with cooking spray. Add the chopped potatoes to the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix with 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour this mixture evenly over the potatoes in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the cooked bacon over the potatoes.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Cover the crockpot and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh chives (optional).
If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it on your social media! I would love for more people to try this delicious and easy-to-make recipe. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Shhh… Join our secret foodie group on Facebook
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