Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes filling your kitchen. This creamy, cheesy dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, or as a side for your family’s favorite meals. The best part? It’s all made in your slow cooker, saving you time and effort while delivering unbeatable flavor.

I first made this recipe for a family gathering, and it disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. The combination of tender potatoes, melted cheese, and a hint of garlic makes it irresistible. Let me show you why this recipe deserves a spot in your meal rotation!

Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to side dish! These Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes are a game-changer for busy cooks and potato lovers alike.

First off, this dish is incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Perfect for busy days when oven space is at a premium!

It’s also a versatile crowd-pleaser. Whether you're serving it alongside a holiday ham, roast chicken, or burgers on a casual weeknight, this recipe complements just about any main course. Even picky eaters can’t resist its cheesy goodness.

And let’s not forget how budget-friendly it is. Using affordable ingredients like frozen hash browns and shredded cheese, this dish feeds a crowd without breaking the bank.

Best of all, it’s perfect for meal prep or potlucks. Keep it warm in the slow cooker for hours, and it stays just as creamy and delicious as when you first made it.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary. Let’s break it down:

• Hash Brown Potatoes: I recommend using frozen diced hash brown potatoes for ease and consistency. You can also use shredded hash browns if you prefer a softer texture. No need to thaw; just add them straight to the slow cooker.
• Cheese: The star of the show! Sharp cheddar cheese adds bold flavor, while a touch of mozzarella makes the dish extra gooey. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Colby Jack or Pepper Jack for a twist.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and depth of flavor. You can substitute it with cream of mushroom or cream of celery if you prefer.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream gives the dish its signature tang and silky texture. Greek yogurt works as a lighter alternative.
• Butter and Seasonings: A bit of melted butter enhances the richness, while garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper round out the flavor.

Special Equipment: You’ll need a slow cooker (4-quart or larger) for this recipe. A silicone spatula is handy for stirring without scratching the slow cooker’s surface.

How To Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes

Making Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes is as simple as layering, stirring, and letting the slow cooker do the rest. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Ingredients
   Start by gathering your ingredients. Dice an onion (if you’re adding one for extra flavor), and measure out the butter, cheese, sour cream, and seasonings. There’s no need to thaw the frozen hash browns—just toss them in straight from the freezer.
2. Layer the Ingredients
   In your slow cooker, layer the frozen hash browns, followed by the shredded cheese, sour cream, melted butter, and cream of chicken soup. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If using onion, scatter it evenly over the top.
3. Mix Everything Together
   Use a large spoon or spatula to gently mix all the ingredients until the potatoes are evenly coated with the cheesy mixture.
4. Cook on Low
   Cover and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is fully melted. Stir halfway through the cooking process to ensure even distribution of heat and flavors.
5. Garnish and Serve
   Once done, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top and let it melt for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

This recipe takes only about 5 minutes of prep time, leaving you free to focus on other tasks while your slow cooker works its magic!

Storage Options

One of the best things about this dish is how well it stores. Here’s how to keep your cheesy potatoes fresh:

• Refrigerate: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the potatoes have cooled completely before sealing the container.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze your cheesy potatoes in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm the potatoes in the microwave, on the stovetop, or back in the slow cooker on low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Variations and Substitutions

The flexibility of this recipe makes it easy to customize. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Add Protein: Mix in cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or shredded chicken for a heartier dish that can double as a main course.
• Spicy Twist: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or swap out the cheddar for Pepper Jack cheese to give the dish a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken and toss in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
• Toppings Galore: Top with crispy fried onions, crushed potato chips, or buttery breadcrumbs before serving for a crunchy contrast.
• Healthier Swap: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use a reduced-fat cheese blend to cut calories without sacrificing flavor.

Experiment with your favorite ingredients to make this dish uniquely yours!

Whether you're serving it at a holiday gathering or a casual family dinner, Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes are guaranteed to steal the spotlight. Their creamy, cheesy goodness and easy preparation make them a recipe you’ll come back to time and again. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s get cooking!

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