How to Get an Even Ranch Coating
Toss the quartered potatoes with the dry ranch seasoning before adding the cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon. If some potatoes are larger than others, cut them into pieces roughly the same size so they become tender at about the same time.
When to Add the Final Layer of Cheddar
Once a fork slides easily into the potatoes, stir gently to coat them in the softened cream cheese and melted cheddar. Sprinkle the reserved cheese and bacon over the top, then cover for another 10 to 15 minutes so the cheddar melts.
What to Serve with Crack Potatoes
Serve them warm alongside roast chicken, meatloaf, or grilled pork chops. A green salad or steamed green beans makes a simple side for the same meal.
Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Crack Potatoes Recipe Card
Fork-tender red potatoes in a creamy ranch sauce with cheddar and bacon.
- Prep time — About 10 minutes
- Slow cooker time — 5 to 6 hours on LOW or 3 to 4 hours on HIGH
- Finishing time — 10 to 15 minutes
- Servings — 8
Ingredients
- 3 pounds red potatoes, quartered
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1 packet dry ranch seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup real bacon bits, divided
Instructions
- Lightly coat the slow cooker insert with nonstick spray, if desired. Add the potatoes, sprinkle with the dry ranch seasoning, and toss gently to coat.
- Scatter the cream cheese cubes over the potatoes. Add 1½ cups of the cheddar and ¼ cup of the bacon bits.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Stir gently until the cheeses form a creamy sauce that coats the potatoes. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar and ¼ cup bacon bits over the top.
- Cover for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheddar melts. Serve warm from the slow cooker or transfer to a serving bowl.