The Ultimate Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

I remember those holiday seasons when my oven was so packed, I struggled to find room for all the dishes. That’s when I discovered this crockpot cheesy potatoes recipe—simple, creamy, and perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s a dump-and-go meal that cooks low and slow for about 4-5 hours, freeing up oven space and saving me precious time on busy days.

Table of Contents

The Easiest Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes You’ll Ever Make

This crockpot cheesy potatoes recipe has become my go-to when I need something comforting without the fuss. It’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or those hectic holiday meals when oven space is tight. Just mix a few ingredients, set your slow cooker, and you’re done. The cheesy, creamy goodness practically cooks itself, making your dinner routine so much easier and way more delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Foolproof Recipe

• It’s a “fix it and forget it” dish that frees up your hands to manage other cooking tasks or enjoy time with your family.
• Keeps your oven free, which is a lifesaver during holiday cooking marathons or busy weeknights.
• Everyone loves it—kids and adults alike—making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
• The slow cooker method means no constant stirring or last-minute watching, just set and relax until mealtime.

Ingredients for the Best Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes

• 1 package frozen hash browns (28 oz., shredded)
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz.)
• 1 cup milk
• ½ onion, chopped (optional)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 oz. sour cream

Pro Tips: I always recommend shredding your own cheddar cheese from a block when possible. It melts better and won’t have the anti-caking agents found in pre-shredded cheese, giving you a creamier, smoother texture in your potatoes.

How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker

Spray the inside of a 6-quart crock pot generously with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. Break Up the Frozen Hash Browns

Open the bag and break up the frozen hash browns into smaller chunks to ensure even cooking throughout.

3. Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, and sour cream until smooth and well combined.

4. Combine Ingredients

Stir in the shredded hash browns, chopped onions (if using), and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the creamy mixture.

5. Transfer to Crockpot and Add Cheese Topping

Pour the potato mixture into the prepared crockpot. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.

6. Cook to Perfection

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

7. Serve Warm

Scoop out portions and serve immediately for a comforting, cheesy side everyone will love.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Spray the crockpot generously to prevent any sticking issues.
• Break up the frozen potatoes well before mixing to avoid any lumps or undercooked spots.
• For a crispy top, if your crockpot insert is oven-safe, transfer it to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes just before serving.
• Avoid thawing the frozen potatoes to prevent excess water and sogginess.

Fun Variations to Try

Variation	How to Make It
Spicy Jalapeño Popper	Add diced jalapeños and substitute pepper jack cheese for cheddar.
Bacon Cheddar	Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon pieces before cooking.
From-Scratch Sauce	Replace canned soup with a homemade sauce of melted butter, flour, and milk.

What to Serve with Your Cheesy Potatoes

These crockpot cheesy potatoes pair beautifully with dishes like Easter ham, BBQ pulled pork, or a simple weeknight meatloaf. They add creamy texture and warmth to any meal. Check out the Aisha Recipes blog for delicious mains that complement this dish perfectly. There are many other delicious and easy crock pot recipes available, perfect for any occasion.

For more recipes click here

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?

Yes, you can substitute about 2 lbs of Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes. Keep in mind the cooking time may need to be extended slightly for fresh potatoes to become tender.

How do I prevent my cheesy potatoes from being watery or greasy?

Two key tips help avoid this: don’t thaw the frozen potatoes, as thawing adds extra moisture; and use freshly shredded, full-fat block cheese which melts more evenly and is less oily than pre-shredded cheese.

Why are my potatoes still hard after the cook time?

This often happens if the potatoes were packed in one large frozen block or if your slow cooker runs cooler. Make sure to break the potatoes up well before mixing, and if necessary, continue cooking on high for an additional 30-60 minutes until tender.

How do I get a crispy top in a slow cooker?

The best way is to use an oven-safe slow cooker insert and broil the potatoes for a few minutes before serving. Some multi-cookers also have a “brown/sear” function that works well for this.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time or freeze it?

Yes! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours ahead and store it covered in the fridge until ready to cook. It’s best to freeze the potatoes after cooking; store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

This crockpot cheesy potatoes recipe is my ultimate no-fail comfort dish for busy days and special gatherings alike. It’s easy, forgiving, and always a hit. Now I want to hear from you—what’s your favorite mix-in or topping for cheesy potatoes? Share your ideas in the comments below, and if you try this recipe, don’t forget to leave a star rating and follow me on Pinterest @aisharecipes