Slow Cooker Foil-Baked Potatoes are an effortless way to enjoy tender, perfectly cooked potatoes without turning on your oven. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this method produces fluffy, flavorful potatoes ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. Each potato is wrapped in foil, locking in moisture and ensuring even cooking, while olive oil and salt enhance their natural flavors.
This versatile recipe is perfect as a side dish or a base for a loaded baked potato meal. Add your favorite toppings, from classic sour cream and chives to melted cheese and crispy bacon, for a comforting, customizable treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.
• Customizable: Adjust the number of potatoes and toppings to suit your needs.
• Energy Efficient: No need to heat up your oven for a batch of baked potatoes.
Ingredients
• Potatoes (as many as you need)
• Olive oil
• Salt (to taste)
• Aluminum foil
• A fork (for piercing potatoes)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove dirt or residue.
2. Scrub the skins gently if needed and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
3. Inspect for blemishes or eyes and remove them using a small knife.
Step 2: Pierce and Season
1. Use a fork to pierce several holes around each potato. This allows steam to escape during cooking and helps ensure even doneness.
2. Drizzle olive oil over each potato, using your hands or a brush to coat evenly.
3. Sprinkle each potato generously with salt, adjusting to taste.
Step 3: Wrap in Foil
1. Place each seasoned potato in the center of a piece of aluminum foil.
2. Fold the foil securely around the potato, ensuring it’s completely wrapped with no exposed areas.
Step 4: Cook in the Slow Cooker
1. Place the foil-wrapped potatoes into the slow cooker. If making a large batch, arrange them in a single layer if possible.
2. Cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or on HIGH for 4–5 hours.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
1. The potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
2. Carefully remove the potatoes from the slow cooker and unwrap them. Use a towel or oven mitt to press lightly, checking for tenderness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
1. Serve the potatoes warm with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, cheese, chives, bacon bits, or butter.
2. For a loaded option, add chili, broccoli, or pulled pork for a hearty meal.
Tips
• Choose the Right Potatoes: Russets are ideal for their fluffy texture, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well too.
• Even Cooking: Select potatoes of similar size for consistent results.
• Flavor Boost: Add garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite herbs to the olive oil for extra seasoning.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap cooled potatoes in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as desired.
Slow Cooker Foil-Baked Potatoes are a convenient, flavorful way to enjoy a classic dish with minimal effort. Customize them to suit any meal, and enjoy the perfect baked potato every time!
