This cozy, hands-off recipe transforms humble russet potatoes into a complete, hearty meal. The slow cooker does all the work, melding flavors together while you go about your day.
Ultimate Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Dinner
Ingredients
For the Potatoes:
· 4 large russet potatoes (about 2½–3 lbs), scrubbed and sliced into ½-inch rounds
· 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
· 4 cloves garlic, minced
· 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
· 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
· 1 teaspoon dried thyme
· 1 teaspoon paprika
· Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Toppings/Add-Ins (choose your favorites):
· 1 lb cooked protein: crumbled cooked sausage, diced ham, cooked shredded chicken, or canned beans (for vegetarian)
· 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack)
· 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
· 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
· 3 green onions, sliced
· Optional: steamed broccoli florets, corn, sautéed mushrooms
Instructions
- Prepare & Layer:
· In the slow cooker, whisk together broth, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, paprika, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp pepper.
· Layer half the potato rounds and half the onion slices in the bottom. Repeat with remaining potatoes and onions.
· Pour the broth mixture evenly over the top. Do not stir.
- Cook:
· Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3.5–4 hours, until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
· If adding cooked meat (like ham or cooked sausage), stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to warm through.
- Serve:
· Carefully stir the potatoes once—they’ll be tender and may break apart slightly, which is fine.
· Scoop portions into bowls and top with shredded cheese so it melts. Add other desired toppings: bacon, sour cream, green onions, etc.
Alternative: Slow Cooker Potato & Smoked Sausage Bake
A simple all-in-one version:
Ingredients
· 4 russet potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
· 1 (14 oz) package smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into rounds
· 1 onion, chopped
· 1 bell pepper, chopped
· 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
· 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup + ½ cup milk (or 1 cup broth)
· 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Toss everything except cheese in the slow cooker.
- Cook on LOW 6–7 hours or HIGH 3.5–4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
- Stir, top with cheese, cover for 5 minutes to melt, and serve.
Key Tips for Success
· Potato Prep: Slice potatoes evenly (about ½-inch thick) so they cook at the same rate. No need to peel unless you prefer it.
· Broth is Key: It provides steam to cook the potatoes and creates a flavorful base. Don’t skip it.
· Avoid Overcooking: Check at the lower end of the time range. Overcooked potatoes can become mushy.
· For Crispy Edges (Optional): Transfer the cooked potatoes to a baking sheet, top with cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes for a crispy, golden finish.
· Make it a Complete Meal: Add a bag of steamed green beans, a simple side salad, or crusty bread to round out the dinner.
Why This Recipe Works
· Convenience: Truly “set it and forget it.”
· Customizable: Easily adapts to what you have on hand.
· Crowd-Pleasing: Comfort food at its simplest and most satisfying.
This slow cooker potato dinner is the ultimate in easy, comforting cooking. The potatoes become tender and infused with flavor, and everyone can customize their own bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights!