Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Easy Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe: Warm Comfort in Every Bite

Creamy crockpot cheesy potatoes spark memories of cozy family dinners and comfort food magic.

Soft potato chunks nestle perfectly in a rich, gooey cheese sauce that melts hearts instantly.

Weeknight cooking becomes effortless with this simple, delectable dish.

Minimal ingredients combine to create a crowd-pleasing side that feels like a warm embrace.

Cheesy goodness awaits in every slow-cooker bite, promising pure satisfaction.

Minimal prep means maximum enjoyment, so you can spend less time cooking and more time savoring.

Dive in and let these potatoes become your new favorite kitchen companion.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh shredded potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute frozen hash browns. Just thaw them completely and drain excess moisture before mixing with other ingredients.

  • Is it okay to skip the cream of mushroom soup?

Not recommended. The soup adds flavor and helps bind the ingredients together, creating a creamy texture for the dish.

  • How can I make this recipe healthier?

Consider using low-fat sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and a lighter cream soup alternative to decrease overall calories and fat content.

  • What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

Cheddar cheese is ideal, but you can also use a blend of cheddar and monterey jack for extra flavor and melting qualities.

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes For Easy Family Meals

  • Simplify Meal Prep: Dump all ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic, making dinner preparation a breeze without constant monitoring.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Cheesy, creamy potatoes satisfy everyone from kids to adults, transforming a basic side dish into a heartwarming favorite that brings smiles around the table.
  • Versatile Serving Option: Perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, holiday gatherings, or as a delicious accompaniment to main courses like roasted chicken or grilled meats.
  • Minimal Kitchen Cleanup: One-pot cooking means fewer dishes to wash, allowing you to spend more quality time with loved ones instead of scrubbing multiple cooking vessels.

Ingredients To Prep Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes

Main Potato Ingredients:
  • Shredded Potatoes: The core base of the dish that provides hearty texture and classic potato flavor.
  • Butter: Adds rich creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together.
Dairy and Creamy Ingredients:
  • Sour Cream, Cream of Mushroom Soup, Cheese: Create a luxurious and smooth sauce that coats the potatoes with tangy and rich flavors.
  • Garlic Salt: Enhances the overall seasoning and adds a subtle garlic kick.
Aromatic Ingredients:
  • Onions: Provides a mild, sweet background flavor that complements the creamy potato mixture.
Additional Ingredients:
  • Non-Stick Cooking Spray: Ensures easy removal and prevents sticking in the crockpot.

Slow Cooker Steps For Cheesy Potatoes Magic

Slow Cooker Steps For Cheesy Potatoes Magic

Step 1: Prepare Crockpot

Grab your slow cooker and give it a quick spray with non-stick cooking spray to prevent any stubborn sticking.

Step 2: Create Creamy Potato Mixture

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
  • Shredded potatoes
  • Melted butter
  • Diced onions
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Garlic salt

Mix everything together until all ingredients are thoroughly blended and coated.

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Pour the creamy potato mixture into the prepared slow cooker.

Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly across the bottom, ensuring a smooth and consistent layer.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat.

Let the potatoes cook for 4-5 hours.

During this time, the flavors will meld together and the potatoes will become tender and deliciously soft.

Step 5: Add Final Cheese Layer

When the cooking time is almost complete, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the potatoes.

Allow the cheese to melt for the last 30 minutes of cooking, creating a golden, bubbly top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop out the hot, cheesy potatoes onto plates.

The dish is best served warm, straight from the slow cooker, making it a perfect comfort food for family dinners or potluck gatherings.

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Tips For Creaminess

  • Always use non-stick spray to ensure easy removal and cleanup of your cheesy potato dish.
  • Sprinkle extra cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a perfectly golden and gooey top layer.
  • Use fresh, frozen shredded potatoes for the best texture and consistent cooking results.
  • Add crispy bacon bits or chopped green onions before serving to boost the overall taste and presentation.
  • Maintain a consistent low temperature to ensure potatoes become tender without burning or drying out.

Crockpot Cheesy Potato Additions For Flavor Fun

  • Cauliflower Swap: Replace shredded potatoes with riced cauliflower for a low-carb version that's keto-friendly and packed with nutrients.
  • Vegetarian Comfort: Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery and add diced bell peppers for extra vegetable goodness.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Mix in diced green chilies, use pepper jack cheese, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a zesty southwestern kick.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut cream instead of sour cream, plant-based butter, and dairy-free cheese to create a lactose-free option for sensitive diets.

Serving Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes At Parties

  • Hearty Meat Pairing: Serve alongside grilled steak, roasted chicken, or honey-glazed ham for a complete comfort meal that satisfies every meat lover.
  • Vegetable Companion: Add steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or crisp green salad to balance the rich, cheesy potato texture and boost nutritional value.
  • Brunch Delight: Transform this recipe into a weekend brunch star by topping with crispy bacon bits, chopped chives, or a poached egg for extra indulgence.
  • Potluck Champion: Transport in a portable slow cooker to family gatherings, church events, or neighborhood potlucks where creamy, cheesy dishes are always crowd-pleasers.

How to Store Crockpot Potatoes Right

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent odor absorption.
  • Transfer cooled potatoes to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing excess air, and store for 2-3 months for best quality.
  • Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly.
  • Spread potatoes in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of milk to restore moisture if needed.
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Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe


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4.9 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Crowd-pleasing Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes bring comfort straight from Southern kitchens to dinner tables nationwide. Creamy, golden layers of potatoes blend perfectly with melted cheese, creating a hearty side dish that welcomes hungry guests with pure deliciousness.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 20 ounces (567 grams) shredded potatoes (frozen and pre-packaged)
  • 2 cups cheese (reserve 1/2 cup for topping)
  • 1.5 cups onion (diced)

Dairy and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 teaspoons garlic salt

Canned Ingredient:

  • 1 10.5 ounces (298 grams) cream of mushroom soup

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crockpot by thoroughly coating the interior with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. In a spacious mixing vessel, combine shredded potatoes with melted butter, finely chopped onions, majority of the cheese, tangy sour cream, creamy mushroom soup, and aromatic garlic salt. Blend ingredients until uniformly distributed.
  3. Transfer the potato mixture into the prepared crockpot, ensuring an even surface for consistent cooking.
  4. Securely place the crockpot lid and set the temperature to low. Allow the potatoes to slowly simmer and tenderize for approximately 4-5 hours, periodically checking for desired softness.
  5. When the cooking cycle approaches completion, approximately 30 minutes prior to serving, generously scatter the remaining cheese across the potato surface.
  6. Let the cheese melt completely, creating a golden, bubbling top layer that adds richness and visual appeal.
  7. Once the cheese has melted and potatoes are fork-tender, remove from the crockpot and serve immediately while piping hot, allowing guests to enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Notes

  • Enhance the texture by using freshly shredded potatoes instead of frozen hash browns for a more authentic, crispy-edged dish.
  • Customize the flavor profile by experimenting with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, gruyère, or a blend of monterey jack and parmesan.
  • For a lighter version, substitute full-fat ingredients with low-fat sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and a lighter cream soup alternative.
  • Make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 hours
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 302
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 21 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 17 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

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