Super Easy Slow Cooker Baked Potato: A Simple and Delicious Side Dish
Introduction
The slow cooker is a versatile kitchen appliance that can make meal prep a breeze, and one of its underrated uses is for making perfectly cooked baked potatoes. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or as the main event topped with your favorite toppings, slow cooker baked potatoes are easy to prepare and always turn out fluffy and delicious. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make super easy slow cooker baked potatoes that are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- As many potatoes as you want
- Olive oil
- Salt to taste
- A fork
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes clean under cold water and pat them dry with a towel. Prick each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during cooking.
- Season the Potatoes: Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt to taste. This will help create a crispy skin and add flavor to the potatoes as they cook.
- Wrap in Aluminum Foil: Individually wrap each seasoned potato in aluminum foil, ensuring that they are tightly sealed to trap the heat and steam inside.
- Place in Slow Cooker: Arrange the wrapped potatoes in a single layer in the slow cooker. Depending on the size of your slow cooker and the number of potatoes, you may need to stack them slightly.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the potatoes on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the slow cooker and unwrap them from the foil. Serve them hot with your favorite toppings such as butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon, chives, or chili.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Toppings: Get creative with your toppings and try different combinations such as broccoli and cheddar, Greek yogurt and salsa, or pulled pork and barbecue sauce.
- Seasonings: Experiment with different seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
- Keto Version: Baked potatoes can be part of a keto diet, but you’ll want to be mindful of portion sizes and toppings. Stick to low-carb toppings like butter, sour cream, cheese, and bacon, and avoid high-carb options like barbecue sauce or sweet chili.
- Low-Carb Version: If you’re looking to reduce carbs further, you can try substituting regular potatoes with sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a lower-carb alternative. These options will still provide a similar texture and flavor without as many carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make baked sweet potatoes in the slow cooker using this method? A: Yes, you can absolutely make baked sweet potatoes in the slow cooker using the same method. Simply follow the instructions and adjust the cooking time as needed based on the size of the sweet potatoes.
Q: Can I add other seasonings or herbs to the potatoes before cooking? A: Definitely! Feel free to customize the flavor of your baked potatoes by adding your favorite seasonings or herbs before wrapping them in foil. Just be mindful of any high-sodium seasonings if you’re watching your salt intake.
Q: Can I cook other vegetables alongside the potatoes in the slow cooker? A: While you can cook other vegetables alongside the potatoes, keep in mind that they may require different cooking times. If you choose to do so, opt for vegetables that have similar cooking times to potatoes, such as carrots or parsnips.
Q: How should I store leftover baked potatoes? A: Leftover baked potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. To reheat, simply wrap them in aluminum foil and warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Q: Can I freeze baked potatoes for later use? A: Yes, you can freeze baked potatoes for later use. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Super easy slow cooker baked potatoes are a convenient and delicious side dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings or as a simple accompaniment to any meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy perfectly cooked baked potatoes that are tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a comforting dish, slow cooker baked potatoes are sure to satisfy. So fire up your slow cooker, grab some potatoes, and get ready to enjoy this effortless and versatile dish!