When you want tender, comforting potatoes without turning on the oven, these 2-Ingredient Slow Cooker “Baked” Potatoes are an easy solution. With just two simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can make soft, fluffy potatoes with very little preparation.
This easy crockpot potato recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, holidays, or anytime you need a simple side dish. The slow cooker gently cooks the potatoes until they are tender enough to enjoy with your favorite toppings.
Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes
Traditional baked potatoes usually require heating the oven and keeping an eye on cooking time. This slow cooker method makes the process much easier.
Here are some reasons to try this recipe:
- Only 2 ingredients
- Easy slow cooker preparation
- Minimal hands-on cooking
- No oven required
- Great for busy weeknights
- Perfect as a side dish
- Easy to customize with toppings
Ingredients
You only need two ingredients for this simple slow cooker potato recipe:
- Russet potatoes
- Olive oil
Russet potatoes are a great choice because they become tender and fluffy as they cook. The olive oil helps coat the potatoes and contributes to their finished texture.
How to Make 2-Ingredient Slow Cooker “Baked” Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash the potatoes thoroughly and dry them well.
Coat the potatoes lightly with olive oil, making sure the surfaces are evenly covered.
Step 2: Add the Potatoes to the Slow Cooker
Place the prepared potatoes into the slow cooker in a single layer when possible.
Keeping the potatoes arranged evenly helps them cook consistently.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook the potatoes according to the recommended cooking time for your recipe.
The potatoes will gradually become tender as they cook.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
Check the potatoes by inserting a fork into the center. They are ready when the fork passes through easily and the potatoes feel tender.
Larger potatoes may require additional cooking time.
Step 5: Serve
Carefully remove the hot potatoes from the slow cooker. Cut them open and serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Helpful Tips for the Best Crockpot Baked Potatoes
Choose Similar-Sized Potatoes
Using potatoes that are similar in size helps them finish cooking around the same time.
Dry the Potatoes Well
After washing the potatoes, dry them thoroughly before coating them with olive oil.
Avoid Overcrowding
If possible, arrange the potatoes so they have enough room to cook evenly.
Check the Largest Potato
When testing for doneness, check one of the larger potatoes. If it is tender in the center, the smaller potatoes should generally be ready as well.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes
These slow cooker baked potatoes are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a simple side dish alongside chicken, beef, pork, or other favorite main dishes.
You can also turn them into a filling meal by adding your favorite baked-potato toppings.
Classic options include:
- Butter
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Cooked bacon
- Chili
Because the potatoes have a simple flavor, they work well with both traditional and creative toppings.
Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes for Busy Weeknights
One of the biggest advantages of making baked potatoes in a crockpot is convenience.
You can prepare the potatoes, place them in the slow cooker, and let them cook while you focus on the rest of the meal. This makes them especially useful when the oven is already occupied or when you want to avoid heating the kitchen.
They are also a practical side dish for family dinners because everyone can customize their own potato.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover cooked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
When ready to eat, reheat the potatoes until they are heated thoroughly. You can reheat individual potatoes using a microwave or another suitable method.
For the best texture, avoid leaving cooked potatoes at room temperature for extended periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make baked potatoes in a slow cooker?
Yes. Slow cookers are an easy way to cook potatoes until they become tender and fluffy without using an oven.
What potatoes are best for slow cooker baked potatoes?
Russet potatoes are a popular choice because they have a fluffy interior when fully cooked.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No. For a traditional baked-potato texture, the potatoes can be cooked with their skins on after being washed thoroughly.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
Insert a fork into the center of a potato. It should slide in easily when the potato is fully tender.
Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes. Cooked potatoes can be refrigerated and reheated later. Store them properly in an airtight container.
What can I put on baked potatoes?
You can use classic toppings such as butter, sour cream, cheese, green onions, bacon, or chili. Choose toppings according to your preference.
Recipe Card
The Ultimate 2-Ingredient Slow Cooker “Baked” Potatoes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: Follow the original recipe’s recommended cooking time
Total Time: Depends on cooking time
Servings: Varies according to the number of potatoes
Ingredients
- Russet potatoes
- Olive oil
Directions
- Wash and thoroughly dry the potatoes.
- Lightly coat each potato with olive oil.
- Place the potatoes into the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook according to the recommended cooking time.
- Check the potatoes with a fork to make sure they are tender.
- Carefully remove the potatoes and serve with your favorite toppings.
Final Thoughts
The Ultimate 2-Ingredient Slow Cooker “Baked” Potatoes prove that an easy side dish does not need to be complicated. With just potatoes, olive oil, and your slow cooker, you can create tender potatoes that are ready for a wide variety of toppings.
Whether you are preparing a quick weeknight dinner, feeding the family, or looking for an easy holiday side dish, these crockpot baked potatoes are a simple recipe worth keeping on hand.