There’s nothing more comforting than a warm, cheesy side dish straight from the slow cooker. These slow cooker cheesy potatoes are a dream come true—creamy, gooey, and loaded with flavor, making them a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you're hosting a holiday dinner or looking for a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this recipe has you covered.

I first discovered the joy of cheesy potatoes at a family reunion potluck, where they disappeared faster than any other dish. Now, they’ve become a staple in my own kitchen, thanks to their simplicity and irresistible taste. Let’s dive in and explore everything that makes this recipe so special.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this easy, comforting dish. These slow cooker cheesy potatoes are everything you want in a side: rich, creamy, and oh-so-easy to prepare.

First, it’s incredibly simple. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is perfect for busy days when you want something hearty and delicious without much effort.

These potatoes are a great make-ahead option, thanks to the slow cooker. Whether you’re hosting a party or prepping dinner for the family, you can set it, forget it, and let the cooker do all the work.

Budget-friendly ingredients make this recipe a winner for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up something so decadent from pantry staples.

Finally, they’re a crowd-pleaser. Who can resist soft, tender potatoes coated in a cheesy, creamy sauce? Even picky eaters come back for seconds—and thirds!

Ingredients Notes

This recipe shines because of its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters.

Frozen hash brown potatoes are the base of this dish. Their shredded texture soaks up the cheese sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. You can also use diced hash browns for a chunkier texture.

Cheddar cheese is the star of the show. I recommend sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to use mild or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby.

Cream of chicken soup provides richness and ties the whole dish together. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, cream of mushroom soup works just as well.

Sour cream adds a tangy creaminess that balances out the richness of the cheese. Full-fat sour cream gives the best results, but you can use a lighter version if needed.

Onion powder and garlic powder bring depth of flavor without overpowering the dish. They’re the secret to making these cheesy potatoes extra savory and delicious.

Special equipment needed? Just your trusty slow cooker! A 4-quart model works perfectly for this recipe, but you can scale it up for larger gatherings with a bigger cooker.

How To Make This Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes

Making these cheesy potatoes couldn’t be easier. Here’s how to pull it off step by step.

Start by prepping your slow cooker with a light coating of non-stick spray. This ensures the cheesy goodness doesn’t stick to the sides, making cleanup a breeze.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your frozen hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is evenly coated and combined.

Transfer the potato mixture into the slow cooker, spreading it out into an even layer. Cover and set your slow cooker to low heat for 4-5 hours, or high heat for 2-3 hours.

About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese over the top. Cover again and let it melt into a gooey, irresistible topping.

Once the potatoes are tender and the cheese is perfectly melted, give everything a gentle stir and serve straight from the slow cooker for maximum convenience.

This dish takes just a few minutes of hands-on time, leaving you free to tackle other tasks—or simply relax while dinner takes care of itself.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? Lucky you! These cheesy potatoes reheat beautifully and are just as delicious the next day.

Store any remaining potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making them even tastier.

To reheat, simply scoop the potatoes into a microwave-safe dish and warm in 30-second increments until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a 300°F oven for about 15 minutes.

If you want to freeze this dish, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some fun ways to make it your own.

For a smoky twist, try adding bacon bits or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. These flavors pair beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.

Swap out the hash browns for diced potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a unique take on this classic dish.

Add a pop of color and extra flavor with chopped green onions or fresh parsley sprinkled on top just before serving.

If you’re looking for a protein boost, stir in some cooked, shredded chicken or crumbled sausage before cooking.

For a spicy version, mix in a handful of diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the dish some heat.

This recipe is as forgiving as it is delicious, so don’t be afraid to get creative. You might just stumble upon your new favorite version!

Cheesy, creamy, and completely irresistible, these slow cooker potatoes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether served alongside a holiday ham, a weeknight roast, or all on their own, they’re guaranteed to steal the spotlight every time.