There is something wonderful about serving a dish of warm, cheesy potatoes alongside a homemade dinner. These Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Hasselback Potatoes are the kind of side dish that makes an ordinary meal feel a little more special. With tender russet potatoes, fragrant garlic, melted cheddar and mozzarella, and crispy turkey bacon, every bite is packed with comforting flavor.

What makes this recipe especially convenient is that the slow cooker takes care of most of the work. A little slicing, a quick garlic and olive oil mixture, and a handful of cheese are all you need to get started. As the potatoes cook, they become soft and flavorful, while the cheese melts into the little spaces between the slices.

Whether you’re preparing Sunday dinner, planning a family gathering, or bringing something delicious to a potluck, these cheesy Hasselback potatoes are a lovely addition to the table. They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, beef brisket, or just about any main dish.

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy slow cooker preparation: Let the crockpot cook the potatoes while you focus on the rest of dinner.
• Loaded with cheesy goodness: Cheddar and mozzarella melt together for a delicious, gooey topping.
• Wonderful garlic flavor: Fresh minced garlic and olive oil give every potato plenty of savory flavor.
• A beautiful presentation: The Hasselback cuts make these potatoes look impressive without complicated preparation.
• Easy to customize: Add herbs, different cheeses, or extra toppings to make the recipe your own.

 

Recipe Details

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
• Total Time: Approximately 6 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
• Cooking Method: Slow Cooker
• Calories: Approximately 400 per serving

 

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup cooked turkey bacon, crumbled
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

 

Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and dry the russet potatoes thoroughly. Place each potato on a cutting board and carefully make thin, evenly spaced slices across the top, stopping before cutting all the way through. The bottom should remain intact so the potato holds its shape while cooking.

2. Make the Garlic Oil

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to distribute the garlic throughout the oil. Brush or drizzle the mixture over each potato, making sure some of it gets between the slices.

3. Add the First Layer of Cheese

Combine the shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Gently tuck about half of the cheese mixture between the potato slices. Reserve the remaining cheese for the finishing step.

4. Arrange in the Slow Cooker

Carefully place the prepared potatoes inside your slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer when possible, leaving a little space between each potato to help them cook evenly.

5. Cook Until Tender

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for approximately 3–4 hours. Cooking times can vary depending on the size of your potatoes and your slow cooker. Check with a fork to make sure the centers are tender.

6. Add the Remaining Cheese and Turkey Bacon

During the final 15–20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella over the potatoes. Add the crumbled cooked turkey bacon on top. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt completely.

7. Garnish and Serve

Carefully transfer the potatoes to a serving platter. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve while the cheese is warm and melted.

 

Variations & Tips

• Choose similar-sized potatoes: Using potatoes of approximately the same size helps them cook more evenly.
• Try different cheeses: Monterey Jack, Gouda, or pepper jack are delicious alternatives to cheddar and mozzarella.
• Add fresh herbs: Rosemary, thyme, or chives bring another layer of flavor to the garlic oil.
• Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a little heat without overpowering the cheese.
• Skip the turkey bacon: Leave it out for a meat-free version or use your favorite plant-based bacon alternative.
• Add extra toppings: Chopped green onions, sour cream, or a little Parmesan cheese make lovely finishing touches.
• Get crispy edges: If you enjoy slightly crispier potato edges, carefully transfer the cooked potatoes to an oven-safe dish and place them under the broiler briefly. Watch closely to prevent burning.

 

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerating: Allow leftover potatoes to cool, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked potatoes in a freezer-safe container, although the texture of the potatoes and cheese may change slightly after thawing. For the best quality, enjoy within 2 months.
• Reheating: Place the potatoes in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm at 325°F until heated through. You can also use the microwave for individual portions, heating in short intervals until warm.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Yukon Gold potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

Yes! Yukon Gold potatoes are a good alternative. They have a naturally buttery flavor and a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that their smaller size may require a slightly shorter cooking time.

Can I prepare Hasselback potatoes ahead of time?

Yes. You can wash and slice the potatoes and prepare the garlic oil a day in advance. Store the potatoes covered in the refrigerator and add the garlic oil and cheese when you’re ready to cook.

Can I make these potatoes without turkey bacon?

Absolutely. The turkey bacon is optional and can easily be left out. You can also use plant-based bacon or simply add extra fresh herbs and green onions.

How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?

Insert a fork or thin knife into the center of a potato. It should slide in easily without much resistance. Larger potatoes may need additional cooking time.

Can I make these cheesy potatoes in the oven?

Yes. Arrange the prepared potatoes in an oven-safe baking dish and bake at 375°F until tender, approximately 45–60 minutes depending on their size. Add the remaining cheese and cooked turkey bacon toward the end of baking.

How do I keep Hasselback potatoes from falling apart?

The most important step is not cutting all the way through the potatoes. Leave the bottom intact so the slices remain connected. A pair of wooden spoons placed on either side of the potato can help prevent the knife from cutting too deeply.

 

Final Thoughts

These Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Hasselback Potatoes bring together everything we love about a comforting homemade side dish. They’re buttery and tender, filled with garlic flavor, and finished with plenty of melted cheese and savory turkey bacon.

The slow cooker makes preparation wonderfully simple, leaving you with more time to enjoy the rest of your day. Serve them with your favorite family dinner, bring them along to a potluck, or make them whenever you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and satisfying. Don’t be surprised if everyone comes back asking for another potato!