There’s something magical about the creamy, cheesy comfort of Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes. This easy-to-make side dish is perfect for potlucks, holiday feasts, or busy weeknights. Toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you focus on other things. The result? Tender potatoes smothered in melty cheese and rich, savory flavors that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
The first time I made this recipe, it was for a family gathering, and it quickly became the most requested dish at every event. The best part? It’s ridiculously simple to make!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe
This dish is a no-fuss classic, and here’s why you’ll love it:
- Minimal prep: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
- Hands-off cooking: Your slow cooker does all the work, freeing you up for other tasks.
- Crowd-pleaser: Who doesn’t love creamy, cheesy potatoes? This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side for roasted meats, barbecue, or even a holiday dinner spread.
Let’s explore the simple ingredients that make this recipe shine.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes lies in its straightforward ingredients:
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best, as they hold their shape and absorb the cheesy sauce beautifully. Dice them into small, even cubes for even cooking.
- Cheese: A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella creates a gooey, flavorful blend. You can add Parmesan for extra depth or switch it up with Monterey Jack.
- Cream of chicken soup: This classic ingredient forms the creamy base of the dish. You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different flavor profile.
- Sour cream: Adds tanginess and richness, balancing the dish’s flavors.
- Butter: A little butter enhances the sauce’s creaminess and gives the potatoes a luscious texture.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder are all you need to season the dish to perfection.
- Optional toppings: Crispy bacon bits, green onions, or extra shredded cheese make for irresistible finishing touches.
You’ll need a large slow cooker (4-6 quart) for this recipe.
How To Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes
Making these cheesy potatoes couldn’t be easier. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare the slow cooker: Grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, and seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder). Stir until the potatoes are well coated.
- Add the cheese: Fold in most of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella, reserving some for topping later.
- Cook low and slow: Transfer the potato mixture to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbling.
- Finish with toppings: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top and cover until it melts. For added crunch, top with crispy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs just before serving.
Serve these cheesy potatoes straight from the slow cooker for a warm and inviting dish everyone will love.
Storage Options
These cheesy potatoes store beautifully, making them ideal for leftovers or meal prep:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the slow cooker on low until warmed through.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Make-ahead option: Assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, refrigerate, and start cooking the next day.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to customize it to suit your preferences:
- Use hash browns: Swap the diced potatoes for frozen hash browns for an even quicker prep.
- Add protein: Mix in diced ham, cooked sausage, or shredded chicken to make it a one-dish meal.
- Experiment with cheeses: Try a mix of Gruyère, pepper jack, or smoked gouda for unique flavor profiles.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery, and use vegetable broth for added moisture if needed.
- Add veggies: Stir in chopped broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a nutrient-packed twist.
The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a holiday meal or bringing it to a potluck, Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes are guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. With their creamy, cheesy goodness and hands-off preparation, this recipe is a must-try for any occasion. Enjoy!
PrintSlow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes recipe is a simple, crowd-pleasing side dish. Made with tender potatoes, creamy cheese, and savory seasonings, this no-fuss dish is perfect for potlucks, holiday meals, or any family dinner. Let your slow cooker do all the work!
Ingredients
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen diced hash brown potatoes
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup diced green onions (optional, for garnish)
- ½ cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
Instructions
- Spray the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the frozen hash brown potatoes to the slow cooker. Pour the soup mixture over the potatoes and stir until evenly coated.
- Stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Cover and cook until the cheese is melted.
- (Optional) Before serving, sprinkle with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs and garnish with diced green onions.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, use cream of mushroom or cheddar soup instead of cream of chicken.
- Add cooked bacon bits or diced ham for a heartier dish.
- You can use fresh diced potatoes instead of frozen, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
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