Indulge in a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion! These Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes combine tender potatoes with crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and the irresistible flavor of ranch seasoning. Simple to prepare and a delight to savor, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes or 6-8 small red or yellow potatoes
- 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
- ½ pound bacon (1 pound makes it that much better)
- 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package dry ranch seasoning packet
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- ½ cup sliced green onions
Directions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Cook the bacon until it is just done but not too crisp. A convenient method is to line a cookie sheet with foil and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 16 minutes while prepping the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Line your slow cooker with aluminum foil, leaving enough overhang to wrap the potatoes on top once in the slow cooker. Spray the inside of the foil with cooking spray.
3. Layer the Ingredients:
Layer half of the potatoes along the bottom of the slow cooker. Follow with half of the bacon, green onions, onion, ranch packet, and top with cheese. Repeat the layers, topping with cheese and reserving 1/2 cup for later. Pour the melted butter over the top.
4. Cook:
Cover the potatoes with the remaining foil, ensuring they are well wrapped. This helps them to steam and cook perfectly. Cook on low for 4-6 hours in your slow cooker.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once finished, top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese and let it melt. Garnish with fresh green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Details:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Kcal: Approximately 350 per serving
- Servings: 8
Serving and Storage Tips :
Serving Tips:
- Garnish Creatively:
Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. - Accompaniments:
Serve these potatoes alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad to balance the rich, cheesy flavors. - Party-Friendly:
For gatherings, keep the slow cooker on the “warm” setting so guests can enjoy the potatoes throughout the event. - Customization:
Offer additional toppings like sour cream, extra cheese, or hot sauce so guests can customize their servings.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration:
Allow the potatoes to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. - Freezing:
To freeze, place the cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date for easy reference. - Reheating:
- Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the potatoes to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
- Slow Cooker: Return the potatoes to the slow cooker and heat on low until warmed.
- Avoiding Dryness:
If the potatoes seem dry upon reheating, add a splash of milk or a bit of melted butter to bring back some moisture.
These tips will help you enjoy the delicious Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes even after the initial meal, making them a convenient and tasty option for any time!
Variations :
1. Loaded Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes:
- Ingredients Addition: Add a layer of sour cream and chopped green onions on top after cooking.
- Toppings: Include extras like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or avocado for a loaded potato experience.
2. Spicy Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes:
- Spices: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the ranch seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Peppers: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or hot peppers within the layers for extra heat.
3. Garlic Herb Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes:
- Garlic: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the melted butter before pouring over the potatoes.
- Herbs: Sprinkle fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley between the layers for an herbaceous twist.
4. Vegetarian Cheesy Ranch Potatoes:
- Bacon Substitute: Use vegetarian bacon or omit the bacon entirely and add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor without the bacon.
5. Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Potatoes:
- Chicken Addition: Add cooked, shredded chicken in the layers for a hearty, protein-packed dish.
- Extra Cheese: Incorporate a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for added creaminess.
6. Sweet and Savory Potatoes:
- Potato Swap: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweet and savory combination.
- Honey Drizzle: Drizzle a bit of honey over the top before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
7. Mediterranean Cheesy Potatoes:
- Mediterranean Flavors: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese to the layers for a Mediterranean twist.
- Herbs: Use oregano and basil for seasoning along with or instead of the ranch packet.
8. BBQ Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes:
- BBQ Flavor: Mix in a couple of tablespoons of your favorite BBQ sauce with the melted butter before pouring over the layers.
- Toppings: Add chopped fresh cilantro and a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce before serving.
9. Breakfast Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes:
- Breakfast Twist: Add scrambled eggs or cooked sausage in the layers to turn this into a hearty breakfast casserole.
- Toppings: Serve with a side of salsa or hot sauce.
10. Italian Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes:
- Italian Flavors: Substitute the ranch seasoning with Italian seasoning and add a layer of marinara sauce.
- Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for an Italian touch.
These variations allow you to customize the Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring there’s a version for everyone to enjoy!
FAQs :
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Answer: Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is recommended for its flavor and melting properties, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different twist.
2. Do I need to peel the potatoes?
- Answer: It’s up to you. Leaving the skins on can add texture and nutrients, especially if you’re using red or yellow potatoes. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel the potatoes before slicing.
3. Can I make this dish in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
- Answer: Yes, you can. Layer the ingredients in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the potatoes are tender. Remove the foil for the last 15 minutes to let the cheese brown.
4. How can I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the foil in the slow cooker?
- Answer: Spraying the foil with cooking spray before adding the ingredients helps prevent sticking. You can also use non-stick aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
5. Can I prepare this recipe the night before and cook it the next day?
- Answer: Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to cook, simply place the insert in the slow cooker and start cooking.
6. What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?
- Answer: If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can make your own by mixing dried dill, parsley, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of salt and pepper. Alternatively, use a different seasoning blend that you enjoy.
7. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
- Answer: Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use dairy-free butter. Ensure the ranch seasoning you choose is also dairy-free.
8. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
- Answer: Certainly! Vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be added to the layers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces as the potatoes for even cooking.
9. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Answer: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of milk or a bit of melted butter if the potatoes seem dry.
10. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
- Answer: Yes, for a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or use vegetarian bacon. For a vegan version, use dairy-free cheese, vegan butter, and ensure the ranch seasoning is vegan. Adding extra veggies can enhance the dish and make it heartier.
These FAQs cover a range of common questions and provide helpful tips to ensure your Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes turn out perfectly every time.