Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

The Creamiest Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Comfort meets convenience in this irresistible crockpot cheesy potatoes marvel that promises to revolutionize weeknight dinners.

Weekends feel magical when rich, creamy potato goodness bubbles without constant kitchen supervision.

Busy schedules demand smart cooking solutions that don’t compromise on flavor.

Layers of sharp cheddar and tender potato chunks create a hearty dish everyone craves.

Minimal prep means maximum enjoyment, letting cheese and herbs work their delicious alchemy.

Creamy, golden edges and melted cheese beckon you to dig in and savor each delectable bite.

One taste, and you’ll understand why this recipe becomes an instant household favorite.

FAQs

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

Yes, absolutely! Frozen hash browns work perfectly and save you time on shredding. Just make sure to thaw them slightly before mixing with other ingredients.

  • Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of potato soup, and use vegetable broth if needed. The cheese and other ingredients will maintain the rich flavor.

  • How can I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the crockpot?

Lightly spray the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray before adding ingredients. This helps create a protective layer and makes cleanup much easier.

  • Can I prepare these cheesy potatoes in advance?

You can definitely prepare the ingredients the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply transfer the mixture to the crockpot and start cooking. This makes for a convenient breakfast or side dish.

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes For Set-And-Forget Meals

  • Minimal Prep Magic: Toss ingredients directly into the crockpot without complex chopping or complicated techniques, making this recipe perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious results with minimal effort.
  • Hands-Off Cooking Convenience: Simply combine ingredients, set the crockpot, and walk away while the dish slowly transforms into a creamy, cheesy potato masterpiece without constant monitoring or complicated cooking steps.
  • Family-Friendly Comfort Food: Delivers a crowd-pleasing side dish that appeals to all ages, with its rich, cheesy flavor and soft potato texture guaranteed to satisfy picky eaters and comfort food lovers alike.
  • Time-Saving Miracle: Requires only 10 minutes of initial preparation and 4-5 hours of low-maintenance cooking, allowing you to enjoy a hearty side dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

What’s Included In Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes

Potato Base:
  • Shredded Potatoes: Hearty base of the dish, convenient frozen option works perfectly for easy preparation.
  • Onion: Adds depth and sweet flavor to the potato mixture, fresh diced onions provide the best taste.
Dairy and Creamy Components:
  • Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps prevent sticking in the crockpot.
  • Sour Cream, Cream of Mushroom Soup: Creates a creamy, luxurious texture and enhances overall taste.
  • Shredded Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a rich, tangy flavor, choose a sharp or mild variety depending on preference.
Seasoning:
  • Garlic Salt: Delivers instant seasoning and aromatic flavor, adds depth to the entire dish.

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes How To Make

Step 1: Prepare Potato Base

Grab your trusty crockpot and toss in the shredded potatoes.

Add these delicious ingredients:
  • Butter
  • Diced onion
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Garlic salt

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

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your crockpot to low temperature and let the magic happen.

Cook for 4-5 hours, giving the mixture an occasional stir to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cheese Finale

During the final 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.

This creates a golden, melty layer that will make your mouth water.

Step 4: Serve and Savor

Once cooking is complete, dish out the cheesy potatoes while they’re piping hot.

The creamy, cheesy goodness is ready to be enjoyed by everyone at the table.

This comforting side dish pairs perfectly with roasted meats or can stand alone as a delightful comfort food.

Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, you can briefly broil the top of the potatoes in the oven for 2-3 minutes after crockpot cooking.

Handy Tips for Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes

  • Shred potatoes fresh for the best texture and flavor, avoiding pre-packaged frozen hash browns which can be too watery.
  • Use block cheese and shred it yourself for superior melting and a creamier consistency compared to pre-shredded varieties.
  • Gently mix ingredients every hour to ensure even cooking and prevent potatoes from sticking to the crockpot bottom.
  • Adjust garlic salt based on personal taste preference, starting with less and adding more if needed during cooking.
  • Swap cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor variation.

Chill Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes The Easy Way

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Place potatoes in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.
  • Spread potatoes in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of milk to prevent drying out.
  • Freeze cooled potatoes in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Sides

  • Complement Creamy Comfort with Hearty Proteins: Pair these cheesy potatoes with grilled or roasted chicken breasts that provide a lean, savory contrast to the rich, creamy dish.
  • Elevate with Wine Harmony: Choose a medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay, which balances the potato's creaminess with its buttery, slightly oak-infused notes and cuts through the dish's richness.
  • Brighten with Fresh Veggie Crunch: Add a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to introduce freshness and acidity, helping to balance the heavy, cheesy potato casserole.
  • Serve with Smoky Protein Companion: Accompany the dish with grilled smoked sausage or bacon, which adds a complementary smoky flavor and protein that enhances the overall meal experience.

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Styles

  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Replace potatoes with riced cauliflower for a keto-friendly version that maintains creamy texture and cheesy flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute dairy cheese with nutritional yeast and use coconut cream instead of sour cream to create a plant-based alternative.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced green chiles, jalapeños, and swap cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken for a zesty southwestern kick.
  • Herb-Infused Gourmet: Mix in fresh chopped rosemary, thyme, and sage to elevate the classic recipe with aromatic herb notes and deeper flavor complexity.
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Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe


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4.9 from 22 reviews

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

Description

Cheesy crockpot potatoes bring comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen to your dinner table. Creamy, golden, and irresistibly rich, this simple side dish promises warmth and satisfaction that draws loved ones close for an unforgettable meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 20 ounces (567 grams) bag of shredded potatoes
  • 2 cups (226 grams) shredded cheese
  • 1 10.5 ounces (298 grams) can of cream of mushroom soup

Dairy and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (227 grams) sour cream
  • 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) butter
  • 2 teaspoons garlic salt

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1.5 cups (225 grams) diced onion

Instructions

  1. Create a smooth foundation by gently combining shredded potatoes, melted butter, finely diced onion, most of the shredded cheese, creamy sour cream, rich cream of mushroom soup, and aromatic garlic salt inside the crockpot.
  2. Thoroughly blend all ingredients, ensuring an even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the mixture.
  3. Set the crockpot to low temperature and allow the potato blend to simmer and develop deep, complementary flavors for approximately 4 to 5 hours.
  4. Periodically stir the potato mixture to prevent sticking and promote uniform cooking.
  5. During the final half-hour of cooking, generously sprinkle the remaining cheese across the surface, creating a golden, melted topping that will add delightful richness.
  6. Once the cheese has melted and the potatoes have reached a tender consistency, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes to allow flavors to settle.
  7. Serve immediately while warm, presenting a creamy, cheesy side dish that promises comfort and satisfaction.

Notes

  • Swap frozen hash browns with freshly grated potatoes for a homemade texture that feels more authentic and less processed.
  • Reduce sodium by using low-sodium cream of mushroom soup and cutting down on garlic salt, perfect for heart-conscious individuals.
  • Add crispy bacon bits or chopped chives on top for extra flavor and a gourmet touch that elevates the classic comfort dish.
  • Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar, gruyère, or pepper jack to create unique flavor profiles that keep the recipe exciting.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 hours
  • Category: Dinner, Side Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
Emily Harper

Emily Harper

Nutrition Consultant & Recipe Analyst

Expertise

Healthy Recipe Modification, Nutritional Analysis & Meal Planning, Global Cuisine & Dietary Adaptations​

Education

School: French Pastry School, Chicago, IL

Program: L’Art de la Pâtisserie

Focus: Intensive training in traditional French pastry techniques, baking theory, and confectionery arts. ​


Emily’s journey started in a pastry kitchen but took a detour into the world of health and flavor science.
Graduating from the French Pastry School and studying nutrition opened her eyes to a new mission: making healthy food taste like something you’d actually crave.
At Dining At Home, Emily’s the go-to for smart, feel-good recipes that don’t trade flavor for nutrition.
She’s all about adding a fresh spin on old favorites and finding small ways to make everyday meals a little brighter.
Outside of the kitchen, Emily is most at home walking forest trails, testing plant-based recipes, or sharing a picnic under a wide-open sky.

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