Slow Cooker Cowboy Potatoes 🥔🤠

These Slow Cooker Cowboy Potatoes are a hearty and flavorful dish that will make your taste buds dance! Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy nights in, these potatoes are loaded with flavor and easy to prepare. The combination of crispy bacon, zesty cheese, and savory spices makes this dish irresistibly delicious. Serve as a side or even as a main meal alongside your favorite protein!

Ingredients

For the potatoes

• 3 lbs russet potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 lb crispy bacon, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

• In a medium skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

🥓 Feel free to save some bacon drippings in the skillet for extra flavor! Just be mindful not to use too much; about a tablespoon should do it.

• In a large bowl, combine the cubed potatoes, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all potatoes are well-coated.

• Transfer the potato mixture to the slow cooker, spreading it evenly.

⏳ For best results, make sure you layer the potatoes gently rather than pressing them down tightly, which allows for even cooking.

• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.

• Once cooked, stir the mixture gently to combine and let it sit for 10 minutes. This will allow it to cool slightly and the flavors to meld together.

• Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor!

🌿 You can also top with a dollop of additional sour cream or more shredded cheese if you’re feeling indulgent!

Variations

• Loaded Cowboy Potatoes: Add some jalapeños or diced bell peppers for a spicy kick. You can also top them with more cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a melty finish! 🌶️🧀
• Veggie-packed: Stir in some frozen corn, diced tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra veggies and flavor.
• Meatless: Omit the bacon and try adding some black beans for protein. You can also roast veggies like zucchini and mushrooms separately and mix them in for a hearty vegetarian option!
• Zesty: Add a splash of hot sauce or your favorite salsa to give these potatoes an extra zing!

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Slow Cooker Cowboy Potatoes! They are sure to become a new family favorite! 🥔❤️