There’s nothing quite like the creamy, cheesy goodness of Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes. The rich aroma of melted cheese, buttery potatoes, and savory spices fills your kitchen and sets the stage for a comforting meal or side dish. This recipe is perfect for busy days, as it takes just minutes to prepare and cooks hands-free in your slow cooker.

I first made this dish for a potluck and was amazed at how quickly it disappeared! Now, it’s my go-to for family dinners, holidays, or any gathering that calls for something irresistibly cheesy and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes

Get ready to discover your new favorite slow cooker recipe. These cheesy potatoes combine incredible flavor with unbeatable ease.

First, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or prepping in advance for a holiday feast.

Not only are these potatoes effortless, but they’re also universally loved. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make this dish a hit with kids and adults alike. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. It works as a hearty side dish for weeknight dinners or the star of a brunch buffet. Plus, you can customize it with mix-ins like bacon, onions, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Finally, these cheesy potatoes are a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a large gathering, this dish serves a group with minimal effort.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each one is essential.

Frozen diced hash brown potatoes: These are a lifesaver! No peeling, chopping, or dicing required. You can also use fresh potatoes if you prefer; just be sure to dice them into small, even cubes for consistent cooking.
Shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show! I recommend using sharp cheddar for maximum flavor, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like Colby Jack or Monterey Jack.
Cream of chicken soup: This provides a creamy base for the potatoes and binds everything together. You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a vegetarian option.
Sour cream: Adds richness and a slight tang that balances the cheese and potatoes beautifully. Full-fat sour cream works best, but low-fat can be used if you’re watching calories.
Butter: A little butter goes a long way in enhancing the dish’s flavor and creating a silky texture.
Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Special equipment: You’ll need a slow cooker for this recipe. A 6-quart model is ideal for this quantity, but you can adjust for smaller or larger sizes.

How To Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes

Making these cheesy potatoes is as simple as mix, set, and forget. Here’s how to create this mouthwatering dish:

Prepare the ingredients. Start by spraying your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, gather your frozen hash browns, cheese, and other ingredients.
Mix everything together. In a large bowl, combine the hash browns, shredded cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, and seasonings. Stir until the potatoes are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
Transfer to the slow cooker. Pour the mixture into your greased slow cooker, spreading it out in an even layer. Cover with the lid.
Cook low and slow. Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 4-5 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly. For faster results, cook on high for 2-3 hours.
Add the finishing touches. Just before serving, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top and let it melt for a gooey, irresistible finish.

This dish is ready to serve hot straight from the slow cooker, making it perfect for buffet-style meals or holiday gatherings.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? These cheesy potatoes are just as delicious the next day, and they store beautifully.

Refrigerator: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the potatoes in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish or ovenproof pan. Add a splash of milk or cream to prevent dryness, and heat gently until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so don’t be afraid to make it your own! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Bacon lover’s twist: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the potato mixture for a smoky, savory boost. Reserve a little extra for sprinkling on top before serving.
Spicy kick: Mix in diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few drops of hot sauce to give the dish a fiery edge.
Vegetarian version: Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery, and add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Healthier option: Use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, and swap butter for olive oil to lighten things up while keeping the dish creamy and delicious.
Tex-Mex style: Add a can of diced green chilies, a dash of chili powder, and some pepper jack cheese for a southwestern-inspired variation.

No matter how you tweak it, these Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes are sure to be a hit. Experiment with flavors, and you might just discover your new favorite version!

Make this recipe part of your regular rotation, and you’ll see why it’s a perennial favorite in so many households. Whether served as a side or a stand-alone dish, these Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes bring comfort and joy to any table.