Easy Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Name: Easy Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 140 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 1 (2 pound) package frozen Southern-style hash brown potatoes, thawed; 4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese; 2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup; 1 (8 ounce) container sour cream; 1 cup chopped yellow onion; 1 cup milk; 1 pinch seasoned salt, or to taste; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 cup crushed cheese-flavored crackers (such as Cheez-It®), divided

Cook Time: 120 minutes

Ingredients

1 (2-pound) package frozen Southern-style hash brown potatoes, thawed
4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
2 (10.5-ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
1 (8-ounce) sour cream
1 cup chopped yellow onion (Optional)
1 cup milk
1 pinch seasoned salt, or to taste
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 cup crushed cheese-flavored crackers (such as Cheez-It), divided

Directions

Begin by gathering all the ingredients.
In a slow cooker, combine the thawed hash brown potatoes, shredded Cheddar cheese, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onion (if using), milk, seasoned salt, minced garlic, and 1/2 cup of crushed cheese-flavored crackers.
Stir the ingredients until well mixed.
Set the slow cooker to the "Low" setting and cook for approximately 2 hours. Be sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.
Once the dish is fully cooked, stir again and top with the remaining 1/2 cup of crushed cheese-flavored crackers for added crunch and flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 476
Total Fat: 33g (43% of daily value)
Saturated Fat: 12g (61% of daily value)
Cholesterol: 54mg (18% of daily value)
Sodium: 1099mg (48% of daily value)
Total Carbohydrate: 32g (12% of daily value)
Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% of daily value)
Total Sugars: 3g
Protein: 14g (27% of daily value)
Vitamin C: 4mg (5% of daily value)
Calcium: 341mg (26% of daily value)
Iron: 1mg (7% of daily value)
Potassium: 385mg (8% of daily value)

Easy Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

History and Origin

The origins of cheesy potatoes can be traced back to American comfort food traditions, particularly in the Midwest and Southern United States. The dish is often a staple at family gatherings, barbecues, and holiday dinners. Originally, it was a simple casserole made with potatoes, cheese, and various creamy ingredients. Over time, it evolved into a more versatile dish, finding its way into slow cookers, making it even easier to prepare. The addition of cheese-flavored crackers as a topping gives it a fun twist, adding a crunchy texture to the creamy layers.

Regional Variations

While the concept of cheesy potatoes is widespread across the United States, regional variations exist. In the South, some variations may include bacon or sausage for added flavor, and in the Midwest, the dish is often prepared with frozen hash browns, like in this recipe. Another regional twist involves the use of different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, for a unique flavor profile. In some areas, the dish may be called "funeral potatoes," a colloquial name for a cheesy potato casserole often served at potlucks and funerals.

Distinguishing Features

This easy slow cooker version of cheesy potatoes stands out from similar dishes like scalloped potatoes or potato gratin due to its simplicity and use of frozen hash browns. Unlike scalloped potatoes, which typically require thinly sliced fresh potatoes, this recipe relies on pre-cut hash browns, saving time and effort. Additionally, the inclusion of cream of chicken soup and sour cream creates a rich, creamy texture that is less common in traditional gratins, which often rely on a roux or bchamel sauce. The addition of cheese-flavored crackers on top provides a satisfying crunch, making this dish a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Where Its Served

Easy slow cooker cheesy potatoes are commonly served at family gatherings, barbecues, potlucks, and holiday meals like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Due to its ease of preparation, it's a popular choice for potluck-style events where large quantities of food are required. The dish is often paired with roasted meats, such as ham, chicken, or beef, making it a versatile side that complements a variety of main courses. Its also a popular choice for informal gatherings, offering a filling and satisfying side that pairs well with other comfort foods.

Fun Facts

The slow cooker version of cheesy potatoes was designed for convenience, allowing busy cooks to prepare this beloved dish with minimal hands-on time.
Cheesy potatoes are sometimes referred to as "funeral potatoes" in parts of the United States, highlighting its popularity as comfort food at community gatherings.
The addition of cheese-flavored crackers is a unique twist that adds both flavor and texture, making it an interesting variation from more traditional recipes.
Some variations of cheesy potatoes include adding crispy bacon, ham, or even shredded rotisserie chicken to turn it into a one-pot meal.

FAQ about Easy Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Yes, frozen hash browns work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before mixing with the other ingredients.

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time by assembling everything in the slow cooker and storing it in the refrigerator. Cook it when you're ready to serve, though it may need additional cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little extra milk if it seems too thick.

Yes, you can freeze the cheesy potatoes for up to 1-2 months. To reheat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and heat in the oven or microwave.

Yes, feel free to use other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of cheeses. Just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor slightly.

If you prefer, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream alternative for a different flavor profile.

To lower the sodium content, consider using low-sodium versions of the cream of chicken soup, cheese, and crackers. You can also reduce the amount of seasoned salt.

Yes, you can cook the potatoes on high for about 2-3 hours, but be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Cooking on high can reduce the time needed to cook through.

If the mixture is too runny, you can cook it uncovered for the last 30 minutes to help it thicken. Alternatively, you can reduce the amount of milk in the recipe next time.

Absolutely! You can add cooked bacon, ham, or even sausage to make it a heartier dish. Just mix it in along with the other ingredients.

Comments

NJFoodies

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I made a half-recipe of this, and it needs minor tweaks. I cooked on HI (not LO) for 2 hrs, and it still needed a little more. The full recipe is huge and would probably take 3-4 hours on HI. The sauce was a bit too soupy - next time I will cut the milk completely, and just add 2 Tbs of cream for the half recipe (or 1/4 cup for the full recipe), as cream thickens better. This has a really good flavor, though. I will make it again.

Kathy Larson

10/07/2018 09:49:25 AM

A big hit with my family - I used my 9x13 crock pot, added a cup of fried bacon pieces, reduced the milk to 1/2 cup, and they cleaned it up! Thank you for the great recipe!!

JENNIR57

12/26/2017 06:11:26 PM

Very good and easy for a carry in! Everyone loved this dish. I would definitely continue to use a slow cooker liner since there is so much cheese and it is gooey. I did add more potatoes than called for because it is soupy. Next time, I will cut soup and sour cream in half and add it if needed as it cooks. I did cook it on High for 2 hours after I had thawed the potatoes in the microwave to 'kick start' the warmth. Have made this twice in a week for carry in and holiday party. Both times, it was a hit!

TJ Wright

11/11/2015 08:14:56 AM

I too had to let it cook longer and on high watching to not scorch it. I added 3/4 of a cup milk instead of a full cup but it turned very good and not runny at all, and it was easy to make. I was limited on time so it worked out for me. It got good reviews from everyone at the pitch in. only reason I gave it 4 stars and not 5 is due to 2 cans of soup is not the healthiest way to eat. MY OPINION ONLY.

Matt Birdsong

01/07/2017 04:06:11 PM

I don't know what your all talking about - I made it as directed, and it was freaking awesome!!! The cheesy crackers sounded kind of weird, so I left them out - and cooked for 4 hours on high, but everyone was blown away - Next time I am going to throw some hame in it and see how that turns out!

Kregg

01/07/2021 07:23:27 PM

On low for two hours wasn't enough time, potatoes still not cooked all the way though. I did turn it up to high for an hour, thank goodness I did.

Michael Mehrmann

12/04/2024 04:54:54 PM

Made 2 batches for Thanksgiving. Added bacon and broth to the (few) leftovers and it makes an excellent soup as well.

Em Eff

12/14/2018 09:24:48 PM

Very good, VERY easy. I used a 1/2 tsp of seasoned salt A pinch is not enough IMO.

Flora Oosterhouse

09/03/2018 06:20:05 PM

2nd time I’ve made this. Used garlic powder and Bacon and Cheddar cheese flavored crackers. Going for the loaded baked potato taste. Bringing to a friend tonight.

Andrea Crump

01/16/2017 01:24:30 AM

Made this for my daughters basketball team and it was a hit! I followed everything, but did put it on high for 2 hours instead, turned out great! I will be making this again.

Mommy Morris

10/11/2015 08:48:54 PM

I used one can of cream of chicken soup and one can of cream of potato. I did not use the sour cream, and lessoned the milk after reading the reviews. 3 hours on high! My kids loved it and I will be making again.

Mark Hall

02/18/2025 10:51:44 PM

Lowkey the easiest way to feel like a chef.

Diana Moutsopoulos

01/24/2025 05:44:26 PM

This was amazing!

Abbey

01/24/2025 05:18:06 PM

Easy cheesy potatoes recipe!

Mark Roberts

10/23/2024 07:06:55 PM

Made it and everyone loved it.

abbyz2000

12/29/2021 10:15:49 PM

It was decent but it wasn't my family's favorite version of cheesy potatoes. I did, though, use fat free cheddar, so that could have been the difference.

hunterdmac

10/28/2019 01:49:21 AM

I was fixing something in the smoker at the same temperature that a slow cooker cooks at (approximately 225) so i put it in the smoker, it turned out great my wife and family loved it

Paula

12/25/2018 11:07:01 PM

I made no changes to the recipe, would definitely make it again and have requests to share!!

Justin Boeldt

10/28/2017 01:36:24 AM

Everyone that has tried this loves it. I add bacon for extra kick.

bgaddaembarqmailcom

12/30/2016 03:17:09 AM

This was such a fabulous dish my whole family raved about it. Suggest a slight liquid reduction.

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Cook Time: 20 minutes

Easy Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

History and Origin

Regional Variations

Distinguishing Features

Where Its Served

Fun Facts

FAQ about Easy Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe