Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Potato Delight is a heartwarming dish that brings together the comforting flavors of potatoes, cheese, and bacon. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this recipe is a staple in many Midwestern homes, where hearty meals are a way of life. The slow cooker method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal dish for busy families who want to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
This delightful dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables, offering a nice contrast to the rich, cheesy potatoes. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or pork chops. A crusty loaf of bread is also a great addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce.
Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Potato Delight
Servings: 6-8 servings
Ingredients
6 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Directions
Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute, then slowly add the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, salt, and pepper, and continue to cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by half of the chopped onion and half of the crumbled bacon.
Pour half of the cheese sauce over the first layer.
Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onion, bacon, and cheese sauce.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Variations & Tips
For a lighter version, you can use turkey bacon and substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. If you have picky eaters, consider adding some steamed broccoli or cauliflower to the layers for a bit of extra nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor twist. For a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
