If you have a soft spot for creamy, cheesy, comforting sides, then let me introduce you to the ultimate game-changer: the Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe. This dish effortlessly combines the rich, melty goodness of cheddar cheese with tender, fluffy hash brown potatoes, all lovingly slow-cooked to perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or just craving something heartwarmingly satisfying, this recipe will become your go-to for bringing pure joy to the table without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavor and texture. Each plays a vital role, from the creamy soup base to the sharp cheddar, creating that irresistible cheesy hug around every potato bite.
- Frozen diced hash brown potatoes: The star of the show providing the perfect tender-but-not-mushy texture after slow cooking.
- Cream of chicken soup: Adds luscious creaminess and binds everything together beautifully, making the dish rich and smooth.
- Sour cream: For tangy depth that balances the cheese’s richness, giving the potatoes a luscious consistency.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: A sharp, melty cheese that brings unmistakable comfort food vibes and a gorgeous golden color.
- Chopped onion: Adds subtle sweetness and a hint of crunch that elevates the casserole beyond basic.
- Garlic powder: Infuses a gentle savory warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Black pepper: Just enough to add a mild kick and enhance the overall taste.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and highlighting every ingredient’s best qualities.
- Melted butter: Boosts richness and adds a silky smooth mouthfeel to the dish.
- Optional chopped green onions or parsley: Fresh garnishes for a pop of color and a mild burst of herbal brightness.
How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Crockpot
Start by spraying the inside of your 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. This simple step ensures your cheesy potatoes won’t stick to the sides and makes clean-up a breeze afterward.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and melted butter. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until the ingredients create a smooth, cheesy mixture that smells divine already.
Step 3: Add the Hash Browns
Toss in the frozen diced hash browns and stir until each piece is completely coated with the luscious cheese mixture. This step is key to making sure every bite is perfectly flavorful and creamy.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared crockpot, spreading it out evenly so it cooks uniformly. Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or if you’re short on time, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. The potatoes should be tender and the cheese bubbling beautifully when it’s done.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped green onions or parsley are fantastic garnishes that add a burst of color and a light, herbaceous note. Sprinkle them on just before serving for that perfect finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This crockpot cheesy potatoes recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. Think juicy roasted chicken, baked ham, or even grilled veggies. It really shines as a comforting side that complements both casual weeknight dinners and holiday spreads.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try serving the cheesy potatoes in individual ramekins or cast iron skillets straight from the crockpot. You can also layer the dish with crispy bacon or diced ham to turn it into a heartier casserole. No matter how you present it, this recipe always invites smiles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your crockpot cheesy potatoes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days and will taste just as comforting when reheated.
Freezing
If you want to keep this delicious dish on hand for a busy day, it freezes well. Scoop the potatoes into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat your cheesy potatoes, warm them gently in a microwave or in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly again. Adding a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese on top before reheating can revive that fresh-from-the-crockpot magic.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup to keep all the creamy goodness while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
Is it necessary to thaw the hash browns before cooking?
Nope! This recipe works perfectly with frozen diced hash browns straight from the bag, making it super convenient and saving you prep time.
Can I add other mix-ins to the potatoes?
You bet! Cooked crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even sautéed mushrooms make excellent additions if you want to customize your cheesy potatoes with extra flavors and textures.
What size crockpot should I use?
A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe. It allows the potatoes to cook evenly without overflowing and gives you the perfect cheesy layer everyone loves.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep everything the night before, combine all ingredients in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate. Then cook as directed the next day for a stress-free meal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and this Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe delivers just that. It’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and utterly delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your kitchen as it is in mine. You’re going to love how effortlessly it brings everyone to the table with smiles and satisfied sighs.
Print
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes recipe is a creamy, comforting side dish perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy dinners. Made with frozen hash brown potatoes, rich cheddar cheese, sour cream, and a blend of seasonings, this slow cooker casserole is easy to prepare and yields tender, cheesy potatoes with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen diced hash brown potatoes
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Optional Garnish
- Chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Spray the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and melted butter. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Add Potatoes: Stir in the frozen diced hash brown potatoes, ensuring they are fully coated with the creamy mixture.
- Transfer to Crockpot: Pour the potato mixture into the prepared slow cooker and spread it out evenly for uniform cooking.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 hours, or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours. The potatoes should be tender, and the cheese melted and bubbly when done.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired to add a fresh touch and color.
Notes
- For extra flavor, mix in cooked crumbled bacon or diced ham before cooking.
- Substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a vegetarian version.
- This casserole makes a great side dish for holidays, potlucks, or comfort food dinners.
