Foil-wrapped potato bombs are a fun, comfort-food twist on classic baked potatoes, inspired by old-school slow cooking over embers and gentle heat. This slow cooker version keeps things effortless with just five ingredients, minimal prep, and hands-off cooking that fits perfectly into busy schedules. Each foil packet steams the potatoes until they’re soft, creamy, and infused with buttery seasoning, creating a side dish that feels special enough for guests but easy enough for weeknights. Perfect for holidays, grilling days, potlucks, or anytime you want a cozy, no-oven side.
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Foil-Wrapped Potato Bombs
Servings: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red, 1–2 inches), rinsed and dried | 1 1/2 pounds |
| Unsalted butter, cut into small pieces | 4 tablespoons |
| Kosher salt (or fine sea salt) | 1 1/2 teaspoons (or 1 teaspoon fine) |
| Freshly ground black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried seasoning blend (Italian, Herbes de Provence, or garlic-herb) | 1 teaspoon |
| Heavy-duty aluminum foil | For wrapping |
Instructions
Set the slow cooker to LOW while preparing the potatoes so it begins warming. No liquid is needed, as the potatoes will steam inside the foil.
Place the baby potatoes in a bowl and toss with salt, black pepper, and the dried seasoning blend until evenly coated.
Add the butter pieces and toss again so each portion will have some butter for flavor and moisture.
Cut heavy-duty foil into roughly 12 x 12-inch sheets. Divide the potatoes into four portions and place one portion in the center of each foil sheet, making sure butter is included.
Fold and crimp the foil tightly to seal each packet, trapping steam inside.
Arrange the packets seam-side up in the slow cooker in a single layer if possible, slightly overlapping if needed.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender.
Carefully remove packets, open away from steam, and serve potatoes with the buttery juices or let guests open their own packets.
Variations & Tips
For garlic flavor, mix in minced garlic or garlic powder before seasoning. Add smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a subtle smoky kick. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley are best stirred in at the end to keep their brightness. For extra richness, tuck a small cube of cheese into each foil packet before sealing. To lighten the dish, reduce butter and add a drizzle of olive oil instead. Thinly sliced onions or bell peppers can be added for extra flavor and color. When cooking for a crowd, double the recipe and stack packets in layers, rotating halfway through for more even cooking.
