Description

Indulge in this rich and flavorful side dish featuring tender red potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese, all brought together with a touch of zesty ranch seasoning. Cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, this recipe is an effortless way to elevate your meals. Serve with sour cream and fresh chives for a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs red potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 (1 oz) package ranch dressing seasoning mix
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (reserve 1/2 cup for topping)
• Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
• Sour cream (for serving)

Preparation Method

Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, water, and the ranch dressing seasoning mix. Add the cubed potatoes and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Layer in the Slow Cooker:
In the bottom of your slow cooker, add a layer of the seasoned potatoes. Sprinkle a portion of the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese over the potatoes. Repeat this process two more times, creating layers of potatoes, bacon, and cheese.

Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 7-8 hours. The potatoes should be tender and the flavors fully melded together.

Add the Finishing Touches:
Once the potatoes are cooked, sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top. Cover the slow cooker again and let it sit for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely.

Serve:
Transfer the cheesy bacon ranch potatoes to a serving dish or serve directly from the slow cooker. Garnish with freshly chopped chives and offer a dollop of sour cream on the side for added creaminess and flavor.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra smoky flavor, try using smoked cheddar cheese or adding a dash of smoked paprika.

Substitute red potatoes with Yukon gold or baby potatoes for a creamier texture.

Add a layer of sautéed onions or bell peppers for additional flavor and color.

To make it vegetarian, replace the bacon with meat-free bacon crumbles or omit it entirely and add a sprinkle of smoked salt.

Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, blending the savory flavors of cheese and bacon with the heartiness of tender potatoes. Perfect as a side dish for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious. Try it today and discover why it’s a crowd-pleaser. For more simple and flavorful recipes, keep exploring and sharing the joy of cooking!