Crockpot Cheesy Potato Casserole

Crockpot Cheesy Potato Casserole is a comforting, hands-off side dish made with frozen hash browns, melted cheese, and a creamy base. It’s the perfect low-effort, crowd-pleasing recipe for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy with minimal prep
• Made entirely in the slow cooker
• Rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy flavor
• Uses frozen hash browns—no peeling required
• Great for feeding a crowd
• Stays warm for serving right in the crockpot
• Customizable with toppings or add-ins
• Comfort food classic
• Frees up oven space during busy meals
• Always a hit at gatherings

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Frozen shredded or diced hash brown potatoes
• Condensed cream of chicken (or mushroom/celery) soup
• Sour cream
• Milk
• Butter, melted
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: chopped onions, bacon bits, green onions, crushed potato chips or cornflakes for topping

directions

this recipe

1. Spray a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine soup, sour cream, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in frozen hash browns, chopped onions (if using), and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
4. Transfer mixture to the slow cooker and top with remaining cheese.
5. Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until hot and bubbly.
6. Optional: Top with crushed chips or cornflakes before serving for extra crunch.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8–10
• Prep time: 10–15 minutes
• Cook time: 4–6 hours (low) or 2–3 hours (high)
• Total time: 4–6 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Add cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor
• Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Gouda
• Stir in green chiles or diced peppers for spice
• Top with French fried onions for a crispy twist
• Make it vegetarian with cream of mushroom or celery soup
• Use fresh diced potatoes (adjust cooking time slightly)
• Go extra creamy with a splash of heavy cream
• Add chopped herbs like parsley or thyme
• Sprinkle paprika on top for color
• Make it a main dish by adding shredded chicken

storage/reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat in the microwave or in the slow cooker on warm
• Freeze for up to 3 months—thaw in fridge before reheating
• Stir and add a splash of milk when reheating to maintain creaminess

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes?

Yes, just dice or shred them finely and increase the cook time slightly.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be if you use a gluten-free condensed soup and toppings.

How do I make it extra cheesy?

Add more cheese on top or mix in multiple cheese varieties.

Can I prepare it the night before?

Yes, assemble the ingredients and refrigerate overnight. Cook fresh the next day.

Can I cook it on high to save time?

Yes, 2–3 hours on high works well for faster results.

How do I keep it from drying out?

Cover tightly and don’t overcook. Stir halfway through if needed.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your crockpot is large enough.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

You can use plain Greek yogurt or softened cream cheese as substitutes.

What are the best toppings?

Crushed potato chips, cornflakes, bacon bits, or chopped green onions.

Can I make it in the oven instead?

Yes—bake at 350°F for about 45–60 minutes in a 9×13-inch dish.

Conclusion

Crockpot Cheesy Potato Casserole is a simple, satisfying dish that delivers creamy, cheesy goodness every time. It’s an effortless way to bring comfort food to the table—ideal for any gathering or dinner rotation.

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