Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes

Hey there, my comfort food buddy! Get ready to dig into these Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes—a creamy, cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth side dish that’s pure cozy perfection! Imagine tender potatoes smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce with a hint of garlic and herbs, all slow-cooked to gooey, golden bliss. Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a no-fuss weeknight dinner side, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that practically makes itself. Trust me, this recipe is a total game-changer, and you’ll be scooping up every last cheesy bite!

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes
This dish isn’t just a side—it’s a warm, indulgent hug that steals the show. Whether you’re serving it with roasted meats or enjoying it as a hearty standalone, here’s why it’s a must-make:

• Versatile: Pairs perfectly with ham, chicken, or BBQ, or serve as a main with a salad for a vegetarian meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable staples like potatoes, cheese, and cream soup, making it a wallet-friendly crowd-feeder.
• Quick and Easy: Just 10 minutes of prep, then let the slow cooker do the work—no babysitting required.
• Customizable: Add bacon, swap cheeses, or toss in veggies to make it your own.
• Crowd-Pleasing: The cheesy, creamy texture and familiar flavors are a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients in Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes

This dish is all about simple ingredients that create a rich, cheesy, comforting side. Here’s what makes it so special:

Potatoes

Diced Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes form the hearty base, turning tender and creamy in the slow cooker.

Cheddar Cheese

Shredded sharp cheddar adds bold, melty flavor that’s the heart of this dish.

Cream of Chicken Soup

A can of this pantry staple creates a creamy, savory sauce without needing a roux.

Sour Cream

Adds tangy richness and keeps the dish ultra-creamy.

Butter

Melted butter brings extra indulgence and helps the sauce coat the potatoes.

Onion

Finely diced onion (or onion powder) adds subtle sweetness and depth.

Garlic Powder

A pinch enhances the savory flavors with a warm, aromatic note.

Salt and Pepper

Essentials to season and balance the cheesy richness.

Optional Add-Ins

Crumbled bacon, green onions, or broccoli for extra flavor and texture.

Ingredients List

• 2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced (about 6 cups)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup finely diced onion (or 1 tsp onion powder)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Optional: ½ cup crumbled bacon or 2 tbsp chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Let’s make these irresistibly cheesy potatoes:

Prep the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Prep the Potatoes

Peel and dice potatoes into ½-inch cubes for even cooking. Place in the slow cooker.

Mix the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, diced onion (or onion powder), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Add 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and mix well.

Combine and Cook

Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes in the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat evenly. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender.

Add Final Cheese

About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese on top. Cover and let melt until gooey.

Finishing Touches

Stir gently to mix the melted cheese into the potatoes. If using, sprinkle with crumbled bacon or green onions for garnish. Let rest for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot as a side dish or a hearty main. Pair with your favorite protein or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 320 kcal (without optional add-ins)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes

How to Serve Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes

This dish is a star side, but here’s how to make it even more irresistible:

• Fresh Salads: Pair with a crisp green salad or coleslaw to balance the creamy richness.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with dinner rolls or garlic bread to scoop up the cheesy sauce.
• Protein Pairings: Complements roasted chicken, ham, pork chops, or BBQ ribs beautifully.
• Vegetable Sides: Steamed green beans or roasted carrots add color and a fresh contrast.
• As a Main: Top with extra bacon and serve with a side of broccoli for a hearty vegetarian meal.

Presentation matters! Serve in a colorful casserole dish or straight from the slow cooker with a sprinkle of green onions for a cozy, inviting look.

Additional Tips

Here’s how to make these cheesy potatoes even better:

• Prep Ahead: Dice potatoes and mix the sauce the night before. Store separately in the fridge, then combine in the slow cooker in the morning.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne, smoked paprika, or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
• Dietary Adjustments: Use cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian version, or swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter option. For gluten-free, ensure the soup and cheese are GF-certified.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or a 350°F oven, adding a splash of milk if needed.
• Potato Tip: Dice potatoes uniformly for even cooking, and don’t skip peeling if using Russets—their skins can be tough after slow cooking.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?
A1: Yes! Use 30 oz of frozen diced hash browns (thawed) and reduce cooking time to 3-4 hours on low or 1.5-2 hours on high.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Prep the ingredients the night before or cook fully and reheat in the slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven with a bit of milk to restore creaminess.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, adding milk if needed.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this?
A5: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. Add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes, but use an 8-quart slow cooker to ensure even cooking. Double all ingredients and add 30-60 minutes to the cooking time.

Q7: Can I add other vegetables?
A7: Sure! Stir in steamed broccoli, diced bell peppers, or peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition.

Q8: Is this dish kid-friendly?
A8: Totally! The cheesy, creamy texture is a hit with kids. Skip spicy add-ins for a milder flavor.

Q9: Can I use a different cheese?
A9: Yes! Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheddar blend. Shred fresh for the best melt and flavor.

Q10: Why are my potatoes mushy?
A10: Avoid overcooking—check at the lower end of the cooking time. Also, don’t stir too much during cooking to keep the potatoes intact.

Conclusion

These Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes are your new go-to for a creamy, comforting side that’s as easy to make as it is to love. With tender potatoes, a rich cheesy sauce, and the hands-off magic of the slow cooker, every bite is pure comfort food heaven. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday feast, a potluck, or a simple family dinner, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the table. So grab your slow cooker, toss in those potatoes, and get ready to savor a cheesy masterpiece!

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