1-First Step: Wash and dry the potatoes Start by scrubbing the 6 medium baking potatoes under cool running water. You want to remove any dirt since the skins stay on for cooking. After washing, dry each potato well with a clean towel or paper towel. Dry skins help the olive oil stick better and keep the potatoes from steaming too much on the outside.

2-Second Step: Poke the potatoes Use a fork to poke each potato 4 to 6 times. This lets steam escape while they cook in the slow cooker. It is a small step, but it helps prevent splitting and keeps the texture nice and even. If the potatoes are extra large, add a couple more fork holes.

3-Third Step: Coat with olive oil and season Place the potatoes in a bowl or on a plate, then rub them with 1 tablespoon olive oil. You do not need a heavy coating, just a light film over the outside. After that, sprinkle salt and black pepper to taste over all sides. The oil helps with texture, while the seasoning adds that simple baked potato flavor people love.

4-Fourth Step: Place in the slow cooker Set the seasoned potatoes into the crock pot. You can arrange them in a single layer if possible. If your slow cooker is large enough, try not to crowd them too tightly. A little space helps the heat move around each potato. If you want, you can line the bottom with a small piece of parchment for easier cleanup, but it is not required.

5-Fifth Step: Cook until tender Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours. Cooking time can vary a bit depending on the size of your potatoes and the power of your slow cooker. The potatoes are ready when a fork slides in easily with little resistance. If you like to plan ahead, slow cooker baked potatoes are perfect because they do not need much attention once they start cooking.

6-Sixth Step: Check for doneness Before serving, test one potato by pressing gently with a towel or oven mitt. It should feel soft and give a little when squeezed. You can also insert a knife into the center. If it goes in smoothly, the potatoes are done. If they still feel firm in the middle, give them another 20 to 30 minutes and check again.

7-Final Step: Serve and add toppings Carefully remove the potatoes from the crock pot. They will be hot, so use tongs or a fork. Slice each one open lengthwise and fluff the inside with a fork. Add your favorite toppings and serve right away. Sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, butter, bacon, chili, or broccoli all work beautifully. If you want a great meal idea to go with these potatoes, try them with juicy grilled chicken breast or a hearty dish like oven baked ribs.