Effortless Cooking with Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe for Simple & Delicious Family Meals

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal. This recipe is effortless, requiring minimal prep time while delivering a rich, creamy, and cheesy texture that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a holiday gathering, these potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to focus on other tasks while ensuring a perfectly cooked dish.

Ingredients

• 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen diced hash brown potatoes
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup melted butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash brown potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Transfer to the Slow Cooker

Pour the mixture into the prepared slow cooker, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Stir the mixture, then sprinkle with additional cheese and green onions before serving. Enjoy warm!

Variations

• Add Protein: Mix in cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken for a more filling dish.
• Extra Creamy: Swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cheddar cheese soup.
• Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
• Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs on top before serving.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
• Total Time: Up to 5 hours

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals or reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can substitute fresh potatoes. Peel and dice them into small cubes, but keep in mind they may take slightly longer to cook.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheese blend for extra flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Simply transfer it to the slow cooker and cook as directed.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough, and you may need to extend the cooking time slightly.

How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?

Cooking on low heat ensures the best texture. Avoid overcooking to maintain firmness.

Can I use a different type of soup?

Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup works well if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check the labels on the condensed soup to ensure it’s gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, mix in bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream, adding a tangy flavor while keeping it creamy.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

Use reduced-fat cheese, light sour cream, and a lower-fat soup to cut down on calories while keeping it delicious.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes are a hassle-free, flavorful side dish that brings comfort to any meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. Try different variations to match your taste, and enjoy an easy, cheesy dish with minimal effort!

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