Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes: A Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food Delight
Welcome to a culinary journey where comfort meets convenience. Today, we’re diving into the realm of slow cooker magic with our tantalizing recipe for Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a hearty side dish, these potatoes are sure to impress with their irresistible combination of flavors. From the savory bacon to the creamy cheddar cheese and zesty ranch seasoning, each bite promises pure satisfaction. So, grab your slow cooker and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon
- 3 pounds red potatoes, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon Ranch Seasoning and Salad Dressing Mix
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
Instructions:
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Allow it to cool, then crumble it into small pieces.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Place the chopped red potatoes in the slow cooker.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for later. Then, evenly distribute the Ranch seasoning mix over the cheese.
- Layer with Bacon: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon pieces over the cheese and seasoning.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
- Finish with Cheese and Chives: In the final hour of cooking, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes. Close the lid and allow the cheese to melt. Once melted, sprinkle chopped chives over the top for added flavor and freshness.
- Serve: Once the potatoes are cooked to perfection, serve them hot directly from the slow cooker.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Customize with Additional Toppings: Feel free to customize your Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes with additional toppings such as sour cream, diced green onions, or chopped jalapenos for an extra kick.
- Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gouda cheese would all make delicious alternatives to cheddar.
- Make it Vegetarian: Omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish. You can also add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: To make this recipe keto-friendly, use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, and opt for a low-carb Ranch seasoning mix. Additionally, reduce the amount of potatoes or substitute them with cauliflower florets to lower the carb content.
- Low-Carb Option: For a lower-carb version, simply reduce the amount of potatoes in the recipe and increase the ratio of cheese and bacon. You can also substitute cauliflower or turnips for the potatoes to further reduce the carb count.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use russet potatoes instead of red potatoes? A: Yes, you can substitute russet potatoes for red potatoes in this recipe. However, keep in mind that russet potatoes tend to be starchier and may result in a slightly different texture.
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, simply place the insert into the slow cooker and cook as directed.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food dish that will leave your taste buds singing with delight. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavorful and satisfying side dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it alongside your favorite main course or enjoying it as a standalone meal, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. So, fire up your slow cooker and treat yourself to the irresistible combination of cheesy, bacony goodness. Your taste buds will thank you!