Crock Pot Baked Potatoes with Toppings

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Crock Pot baked potatoes with savory, delicious toppings served in a rustic bowl

Why Make This Recipe

Crock Pot Baked Potatoes are an easy and delicious way to enjoy a hearty meal without much fuss. You simply place the potatoes in the slow cooker, and let it do all the work. This method makes the potatoes tender and fluffy, allowing them to be the perfect base for your favorite toppings. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option for feeding a crowd or for a simple weeknight dinner.

How to Make Crock Pot Baked Potatoes with Toppings

Ingredients:

  • 4-6 large russet potatoes
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Butter
  • Sour cream
  • Cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Fresh chives, chopped
  • Optional: bacon bits or other preferred toppings

Directions:

  1. Scrub the potatoes clean and prick them several times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
  2. Rub each potato with olive oil and season them generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Place the potatoes in the crock pot.
  4. Cook on high for 4-5 hours or on low for 7-8 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
  5. Once cooked, carefully slice open each potato, fluff the insides with a fork, and top with butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, chives, and any optional toppings you prefer.
  6. Serve warm and enjoy your budget-friendly DIY potato bar!

How to Serve Crock Pot Baked Potatoes with Toppings

Serving these baked potatoes is simple. Place them on a platter or individual plates. Offer a variety of toppings like butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and chopped chives. If you have guests, they can build their own loaded potatoes. This interactive meal makes it fun and enjoyable for everyone.

How to Store Crock Pot Baked Potatoes with Toppings

If you have leftovers, allow the potatoes to cool to room temperature before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again. It’s best to add fresh toppings after reheating, so they taste great each time.

Tips to Make Crock Pot Baked Potatoes with Toppings

  • Choose potatoes of similar size to ensure they cook evenly.
  • Don’t skip the olive oil and seasoning; it enhances the flavor.
  • Make sure to pierce the potatoes well; this prevents them from bursting while cooking.
  • Experiment with different toppings to keep things interesting.

Variation

You can make sweet potatoes using the same method. They will cook in the same time frame and can be topped with cinnamon, brown sugar, or even marshmallows for a sweeter twist.

FAQs

  1. Can I cook more than 6 potatoes at once?
    Yes, as long as they fit in your crock pot, you can cook as many potatoes as you like. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.

  2. Do I need to wrap the potatoes in foil?
    No, you don’t have to wrap them. The crock pot will steam them perfectly on its own.

  3. What other toppings can I use?
    You can use a variety of toppings like Greek yogurt, salsa, or even chili for a heartier meal. Get creative with what you have on hand!

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