Crockpot Cheddar Broccoli Red Potato Bake: Easy Dump Dinner

This slow cooker casserole is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dinner. Layer red bliss potatoes, smoky bacon, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheddar sauce in the Crockpot, then let it simmer away until everything is tender and bubbling. It's a hearty, comforting meal that comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

This dump-and-go recipe turns simple ingredients into a rich, cheesy potato bake that's perfect for busy weeknights.

You'll love how the slow cooker transforms the potatoes into creamy, tender bites while the bacon adds a smoky depth and the cheddar melts into a golden crust. Just layer everything in the crock, cover, and let the magic happen. When you come back hours later, dinner is ready.

Ingredients

Why this recipe works

The slow cooker creates a gentle, even heat that cooks the potatoes perfectly without constant stirring. As the potatoes simmer in the creamy soup and bacon drippings, they absorb flavor and become incredibly tender.

The cheese melts into a velvety sauce that coats every bite, while the broccoli stays bright and slightly crisp, offering a nice contrast in texture.

This recipe is designed for convenience. Everything goes into one pot, and there's no need to pre-cook the potatoes or bacon. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to go about your day while the flavors meld together. The result is a comforting, homey dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen—but you didn't.

Notes and substitutions

Baby red bliss potatoes are ideal because their thin skins are tender and they hold their shape well during long cooking. If you can't find them, use Yukon Gold or red potatoes cut into 1-inch chunks.

The bacon adds a smoky, salty punch, but you can use turkey bacon or ham for a lighter option. The condensed cream of broccoli soup provides the creamy base; if you prefer, make a quick homemade cream sauce.

For the best texture, use a sharp yellow cheddar that melts well. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting, so shredding your own from a block is recommended.

The butter pats on top enrich the sauce and help create a golden, slightly crispy top. You can also add a pinch of black pepper or garlic powder for extra flavor, but the recipe is delicious as-is.

• smoked bacon: Turkey bacon or diced ham (cooked) can replace bacon; note that turkey bacon is leaner and may not render as much fat.
• condensed cream of broccoli soup: Use 2 cups homemade cream of broccoli sauce or substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.
• sharp yellow cheddar: White cheddar, Colby Jack, or Monterey Jack cheese work well in this recipe.
• baby red bliss potatoes: Yukon Gold or regular red potatoes cut into 1-inch chunks are good alternatives.

Equipment

• 6-quart slow cooker (Crockpot)
• Cutting board
• Chef's knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula