Ingredients & Their Purpose

• Potatoes (any quantity) – Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their starchy texture, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes also work well.
• Olive oil – Adds flavor and helps create a beautifully crisped skin under the foil.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor and works with the oil to season the potato skin.

Tools You’ll Need

• Slow cooker (Crock Pot) – The secret weapon for consistent, hands-free baking.
• Aluminum foil – Locks in moisture and heat, ensuring soft, evenly cooked potatoes.
• Fork – Used to pierce the potatoes, which helps with even cooking and prevents bursting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Clean and Prep the Potatoes

Thoroughly scrub each potato under running water and pat dry with a towel. Use a fork to poke several holes around the surface of each potato to allow steam to escape during cooking.

2. Season the Potatoes

Rub each potato with a thin layer of olive oil to help the skin crisp slightly. Then, sprinkle with salt to your taste. This not only seasons the interior but enhances the texture and flavor of the skin.

3. Wrap in Foil

Place each potato in the center of a square of aluminum foil. Wrap tightly, ensuring no gaps, to help retain moisture and heat during cooking.

4. Place in Crock Pot

Arrange the foil-wrapped potatoes in your slow cooker. Stack as needed, but avoid overfilling. Do not add any water.

5. Cook to Perfection

• Low setting: Cook for 7–8 hours for soft, fluffy results.
• High setting: Cook for 4–5 hours if you’re short on time.

Cooking times may vary slightly based on potato size and slow cooker brand.

6. Serve and Garnish

Carefully remove the hot foil-wrapped potatoes from the slow cooker. Unwrap and place on serving plates. Top with your favorite garnishes such as sour cream, shredded cheese, crispy bacon, green onions, or butter. Let your creativity shine!

Why This Recipe Works

• Set it and forget it: Ideal for busy cooks or those wanting a hands-off approach.
• No oven required: Great during hot months or when oven space is limited.
• Consistently tender potatoes: Slow, even cooking produces the perfect texture every time.
• Fully customizable: Make each one unique with endless topping combinations.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use uniform-sized potatoes so they cook evenly.
• Don’t overcrowd the crock pot. Leave a bit of space between potatoes when possible.
• Line the slow cooker with a layer of foil or parchment if you’re worried about drips from toppings added post-cook.
• Test for doneness by gently squeezing (with oven mitts!) or inserting a fork—fully cooked potatoes will be soft and give easily.

Serving Suggestions

• As a hearty side dish – Perfect alongside grilled steak, chicken, or ribs.
• Make it a meal – Top with chili, pulled pork, or steamed veggies for a full dinner.
• Build-your-own potato bar – Great for parties or family dinners where everyone can add their own toppings.