Crock pot baked potatoes are one of the easiest and most foolproof ways to enjoy fluffy, tender, and flavorful potatoes. Instead of heating up the oven or worrying about timing, you can simply wrap your potatoes in foil, place them in the slow cooker, and let them cook to perfection while you go about your day.
The result is soft, creamy potatoes on the inside with a delicious, slightly seasoned skin. These potatoes make the perfect side dish for almost any meal and can even be transformed into a hearty main course with the right toppings.
Whether you want a simple potato with butter and salt, or a fully loaded meal with chili, cheese, and sour cream, the crock pot makes it easy to get consistent results every time. They are also ideal for parties, family dinners, or meal prepping, since you can cook several at once and keep them warm until serving.
Ingredients
4–6 large russet potatoes (or as many as fit in your crock pot)
1–2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
Salt to taste (optional)
Aluminum foil
Instructions
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt, then pat them dry with a kitchen towel. If you like extra flavor, rub each potato lightly with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt, making sure the skins are coated.
This step will give the skins a nice taste and texture. Wrap each potato individually in aluminum foil, ensuring they are sealed tightly so they can steam inside while cooking. Place the foil-wrapped potatoes into the crock pot, stacking them if necessary, and cover with the lid. Cook on Low for 7–8 hours or on High for 4–5 hours.
The potatoes are ready when they are easily pierced with a fork. Carefully unwrap each potato, being cautious of the steam, and serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Topping Ideas
One of the best parts about baked potatoes is how versatile they are. For a classic option, serve with butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and chives. If you want something more filling, try topping your potato with chili and shredded cheese for a comforting chili-cheese potato. A taco-style baked potato can be made with seasoned ground beef, salsa, shredded lettuce, and a sprinkle of cheddar. For a healthier version, try steamed broccoli and melted cheese for a broccoli-cheddar potato. You can also make a breakfast potato by topping it with scrambled eggs, crumbled bacon, and a drizzle of hot sauce. The possibilities are endless, and each version turns a simple potato into a satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations
To keep the potatoes warm for serving at a party or family dinner, you can leave them in the crock pot on the warm setting after they are fully cooked. If you prefer crispy skin, remove the potatoes from the foil after slow cooking and place them on a baking sheet in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 5–10 minutes. This will give them a nice golden finish while keeping the insides soft and fluffy. Sweet potatoes can also be cooked the same way for a naturally sweeter variation, perfect with a pat of butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of honey. Cooking multiple potatoes at once is ideal for meal prep, as you can store them in the refrigerator and reheat them in the microwave or oven when needed.
Crock pot baked potatoes are a simple, hands-off recipe that delivers delicious results every time. With just a few minutes of prep, you can have a side dish or main course ready without fuss. They’re budget-friendly, healthy, and endlessly customizable, making them a staple recipe worth keeping in your kitchen routine.