Slow Cooker Baked Potato Casserole Recipe

If you love everything about loaded baked potatoes but wish they were just a bit more effortless, you need this Slow Cooker Baked Potato Casserole in your life. Imagine tender, fluffy potatoes layered with gooey cheese, smoky bacon, and tangy sour cream, all melding together while you go about your day. This casserole captures that dreamy comfort food vibe, perfect for feeding a crowd or simply transforming humble potatoes into something truly special. With each scoop, you’ll get all the classic flavors you adore—no oven required, and minimal fuss!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how a handful of simple, familiar ingredients become something show-stopping. Every element brings its own pop of flavor and sets up the beautiful texture and color of the finished dish.

• Russet potatoes: These starchy, fluffy potatoes soften beautifully and soak up all the creamy flavors—don’t skip peeling for the perfect texture!
• Cooked bacon: Crispy bacon crumbles infuse the casserole with a smoky, savory bite in every forkful.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty cheese gives the casserole a gooey interior and golden finish—sharp cheddar adds an extra pop!
• Sour cream: This is essential for that signature tang and creamy consistency you want in every bite.
• Cream cheese: A bit of cream cheese makes the potatoes extra luscious and rich.
• Milk: Helps transform everything into a perfectly scoopable, creamy consistency without becoming heavy.
• Butter: Just enough for that classic, indulgent baked potato flavor.
• Green onions: Sprinkled in and on top, they add color, freshness, and a gentle onion zing.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings bring all the flavors into balance—taste as you go!

How to Make Slow Cooker Baked Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes

Start by peeling the russet potatoes and cutting them into bite-sized cubes, about an inch each. This ensures they cook evenly and soak up all the rich flavors in your Slow Cooker Baked Potato Casserole. If you like a rustic feel, leave a bit of skin on for texture and color!

Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Add the potatoes to your slow cooker, followed by a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Dot bits of butter and cream cheese throughout, so they slowly melt and mingle with the potatoes as everything cooks. Pour in the milk for moisture, then scatter half of your bacon, green onions, and cheddar cheese across the top. Give everything a gentle mix to ensure goodness in every layer.

Step 3: Cook Until Tender

Set your slow cooker on high for 3-4 hours, or low for 6-7 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are fork tender and the cheeses have melted into a creamy sauce. Avoid lifting the lid too often; we want to lock in all that warmth and moisture! The kitchen will start to smell amazing, and that’s how you’ll know something delicious is on the way.

Step 4: Mash and Mix

Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the sour cream to finish off the creamy baked potato vibe. You can mash the potatoes a little if you like, or leave some chunks for heartiness—it’s totally up to you. Now is the time to taste and check seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed. Top with the remaining cheese, bacon, and green onions, then let everything warm together for another 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once that last layer of cheese is gooey and bubbling, scoop generous spoonfuls of your Slow Cooker Baked Potato Casserole straight from the pot. It’s incredible served piping hot, with all your favorite garnishes and sides. Prepare for everyone to ask for seconds!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Baked Potato Casserole

Garnishes

No Slow Cooker Baked Potato Casserole is complete without a few finishing touches. Try a layer of sliced green onions, extra cheddar, a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper, or even a dollop of sour cream on each serving to mimic a loaded baked potato at its best.

Side Dishes

This casserole truly shines alongside a crisp green salad, buttery dinner rolls, or even some simple roasted veggies. It’s hearty enough to be the main dish but plays beautifully as a standout side with ham, steak, or roasted chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling fun, scoop the casserole into individual ramekins for a dinner party, or serve it in potato skins for a playful twist. Turn leftovers into breakfast by topping with a fried egg! However you serve it, you’ll get smiles all around.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Slow Cooker Baked Potato Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen with time, so your next-day serving might be even better! Just be sure it’s cooled before popping it in the fridge.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, let the casserole cool completely, transfer it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re craving cozy comfort food, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave, covered, in short bursts so the potatoes don’t dry out. Or, pop it in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil. A splash of milk stirred in helps restore that creamy, freshly-made texture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes?

Absolutely! Yukon Golds add a buttery flavor and creamy texture, while red potatoes will create a firmer bite. Just keep in mind that russets are ideal for that classic “baked potato” feel in a Slow Cooker Baked Potato Casserole.

How can I make this vegetarian?

Simply skip the bacon or swap in your favorite plant-based alternative. Amp up the smoky flavor with a pinch of smoked paprika for a vegetarian version that’s just as comforting.

Can I assemble this ahead of time?

Definitely. You can prep all your ingredients and layer them in the slow cooker insert the night before. In the morning, just pop the insert into your slow cooker and start cooking—so convenient for busy days or when you’re hosting!

What if my casserole is too thick?

If your Slow Cooker Baked Potato Casserole is looking a bit dense, just stir in an extra splash of milk or broth to loosen things up. Potatoes continue soaking up moisture as they rest, so this is totally normal and easy to fix.

Is this recipe gluten free?

Yes! This casserole is naturally gluten free as long as you double-check your bacon and cheese for hidden gluten in any seasonings or additives. It’s a great option for gatherings with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend making Slow Cooker Baked Potato Casserole enough—it’s just one of those recipes that brings everyone together for seconds and big smiles. If you’re craving cozy, classic flavors without any fuss, give it a go! I know it’ll quickly become a go-to comfort food favorite in your home.