Cheesy potato crock pot recipe with hash browns, sour cream, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, onions, and butter for melty, crave-worthy comfort.
Ingredients for Cheesy Potato Crock Pot Recipe
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen hash browns (diced or shredded) | 30-32 oz bag | No need to thaw, keeps the texture perfect in slow cooker cheesy potatoes |
| Shredded sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups (divided) | Use 1.5 cups in the mix, save 0.5 cup for topping |
| Sour cream | 1 cup | Full-fat works best for creamy texture |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 (10.5 oz) can | Condensed, undiluted; swap for cream of mushroom if vegetarian |
| Melted butter | 1/2 cup | Adds richness to the cheesy sauce |
| Diced onion | 1/2 cup | Fresh or frozen – I use yellow onion for mild flavor |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | Or mince 2 fresh cloves if you prefer |
| Salt and black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon each | Adjust to taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
This cheesy potato crock pot recipe comes together fast, mostly mixing and letting the slow cooker do its thing for those perfect slow cooker cheesy potatoes.
Prep the Slow Cooker
Line your crockpot with a disposable liner for easy cleanup, or spray it with nonstick spray. This keeps the cheesy hashbrown casserole from sticking.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, diced onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything’s evenly coated, takes about 2 minutes. If you’re adding bacon for loaded cheesy potatoes, mix it in now.
Cook and Finish
Pour the mixture into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, stirring once halfway. In the last 15 minutes, sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup cheese on top to melt. Serve hot as a comforting holiday side dish.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesy Potato Crock Pot Recipe Results
Keep the Texture Creamy
Stir just once or twice during cooking, too much and the potatoes can get mushy. If your slow cooker runs hot, stick to low heat for these slow cooker cheesy potatoes to avoid any separation in the cheesy sauce.
Easy Cleanup Hack
Always use a slow cooker liner. It saves so much scrubbing, especially with all that melted cheese sticking to the sides.
Make-Ahead Option
You can mix everything the night before and keep it in the fridge. In the morning, just dump it in and start cooking, perfect for busy days or when you’re prepping a holiday side dish.
Avoid Common Issues
Don’t peek too often; lifting the lid lets heat escape and adds cooking time. If the top isn’t browning enough, remove the lid for the last 20 minutes.
Nutrition Information for Cheesy Potato Crock Pot Recipe
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 320 | – |
| Total Fat | 22g | 28% |
| Saturated Fat | 12g | 60% |
| Cholesterol | 55mg | 18% |
| Sodium | 680mg | 30% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 24g | 9% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g | 7% |
| Total Sugars | 2g | – |
| Protein | 10g | 20% |
| Vitamin D | 0mcg | 0% |
| Calcium | 250mg | 20% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 400mg | 9% |
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
Short-Term Storage
Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually get better the next day.
Freezing Instructions
Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, it freezes great for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Best Reheating Methods
Microwave individual portions with a splash of milk to keep the creamy texture, or warm in the oven at 350°F covered with foil. For larger amounts, put back in the slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
FAQs About Cheesy Potato Crock Pot Recipe
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, peel and dice 6-7 medium russet potatoes into small cubes. They’ll need an extra hour on low for this cheesy potato crock pot recipe to get tender.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Just swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or celery. These slow cooker cheesy potatoes stay just as creamy.
What’s the difference from traditional funeral potatoes?
This is the crock pot version, same cheesy hash brown casserole flavour, but easier with no oven required.
Can I add bacon?
Definitely. Mix in ½ cup crumbled cooked bacon for loaded cheesy potatoes that everyone loves.
How long does it take to cook?
4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Stir once halfway for even results in your crock pot cheesy potatoes.
Is it good for holidays?
Absolutely, one of the best holiday side dishes that keeps the oven free.
