These Slow Cooker Bacon Cheese Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with smoky bacon and tender potatoes. With just 10 minutes of prep, your slow cooker does the heavy lifting, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas for 6 hours. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of rich, savory flavors and satisfying textures, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Loaded with melty cheese, crispy bacon, and hearty potatoes, this dish is a flavor-packed side or main that’s as easy as it is delicious. The slow cooking process ensures every potato is infused with smoky, cheesy goodness, while the golden edges add a delightful crunch. It’s a warm, comforting meal that feels indulgent yet simple to prepare—perfect for busy days or cozy nights in.
What You’ll Need
- 8 strips of bacon, diced (use thick-cut for extra flavor)
- 1 onion, thinly sliced (yellow or white onions work best)
- 4 medium potatoes, cut into large cubes (Yukon Gold or Russet are great options)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 Tablespoons butter, divided (unsalted is preferred)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How to Make Slow Cooker Bacon Cheese Potatoes
- Prepare the slow cooker: Line the slow cooker with foil, leaving enough to cover the potatoes later. This prevents sticking and helps the potatoes steam evenly.
- Layer the ingredients: Start with half of the diced bacon, sliced onions, cubed potatoes, and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper, then dot with 1 Tablespoon of butter.
- Repeat the layers: Add the remaining bacon, onions, potatoes, and cheese. Dot with the remaining 1 Tablespoon of butter.
- Cover and cook: Overlap the foil to cover the potatoes, then place the lid on the slow cooker. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve warm. Enjoy!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
These Slow Cooker Bacon Cheese Potatoes are a hearty side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli. They also make a fantastic addition to brunch menus—try them with scrambled eggs or a fluffy omelet!
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish and warm on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. For a crispier texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil until warmed through and slightly golden.
Recipe Variations to Try
Switch up the flavors by using smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. Add a kick with diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. For a lighter version, swap half the potatoes with cauliflower florets. You can also use turkey bacon or skip the bacon entirely for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
To save time, prep your ingredients the night before. Dice the bacon, slice the onions, and cube the potatoes, then store them in separate containers in the fridge. In the morning, simply layer everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you tackle your day!
Equipment Guidance for Best Results
Using a slow cooker liner or foil, as suggested, is key to preventing sticking and ensuring easy cleanup. If your slow cooker tends to cook unevenly, consider stirring the potatoes halfway through the cooking time. A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe, but adjust the quantities if using a smaller or larger model.
Slow Cooker Bacon Cheese Potatoes Recipe
Equipment
- slow cooker
Ingredients
- 8 strips bacon, diced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, (cut into large cubes)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Line slow cooker with foil, leaving enough foil to cover potatoes when finished (this will help the potatoes not to stick to the edges and to help them steam. It will also keep them from getting mushy.)
- Layer half each of the bacon, onions, potatoes and cheese in the slow cooker. Season to taste and dot with 1 Tablespoon of butter.
- Repeat layers of bacon, onions, potatoes and cheese. Dot with 1 Tablespoon of butter.
- Overlap with remaining foil. Place lid on slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Sprinkle with green onions and serve.