Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

There's nothing quite like the aroma of slow-cooked cheesy potatoes filling your home on a chilly afternoon. This dish brings together soft, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes, a rich, velvety cheese sauce, and just the right hint of seasoning for a side dish that’s absolutely irresistible.

I first discovered this recipe when looking for an easy crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, and now it's a staple on our table for holidays and Sunday dinners. With minimal prep and a big flavor payoff, it's a true lifesaver when hosting friends or a hungry household.

Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort food. These Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes are the perfect blend of convenience and indulgence, saving you time while still wowing your taste buds.

First off, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. You only need about 10 minutes of prep before the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. Just set it and forget it – no constant stirring or oven babysitting required.

Not only is this dish easy, but it’s also a huge hit with both kids and adults. Creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying, it’s one of those sides that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Even picky eaters won't be able to resist the savory goodness.

The versatility of these potatoes is another major win. They pair beautifully with almost any main course, from ham and turkey to BBQ or roast beef. And if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, they make an excellent breakfast side with eggs the next morning.

Finally, this recipe uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients. No fancy cheeses or hard-to-find seasonings – just pantry staples that keep things affordable without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one is chosen to create a creamy, comforting side dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or russet potatoes for this recipe. Yukon Golds have a buttery texture that melts in your mouth, while russets soak up all the cheesy goodness. If you’re short on time, you can even use frozen diced hash browns to make prep even faster.

Cheese: Sharp cheddar is the star here, bringing a bold, rich flavor to the dish. You can use pre-shredded cheese in a pinch, but grating your own from a block will melt better and give you a smoother sauce. Want a twist? Try adding a little pepper jack or gouda for extra flavor.

Sour Cream: Sour cream adds a slight tang and helps create the velvety texture of the sauce. You can substitute with Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a lighter option that still packs a punch.

Cream of Chicken Soup: This pantry staple binds the sauce together and adds depth of flavor. If you prefer a homemade version, you can easily swap it out, but the canned variety keeps things simple and stress-free.

Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder is all you need to elevate these cheesy potatoes. Feel free to adjust the amounts based on your taste preferences. For a little heat, sprinkle in some cayenne or red pepper flakes.

You’ll also need a slow cooker, ideally a 6-quart model, to ensure the potatoes cook evenly and the cheese sauce stays smooth.

How To Make This Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes

Making these Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes couldn’t be simpler. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure they turn out perfect every time.

Begin by peeling and dicing your potatoes into even, bite-sized cubes. This helps them cook evenly in the slow cooker and ensures every piece gets coated in that delicious cheese sauce. If you’re short on time, remember that frozen hash browns work just as well!

In a large mixing bowl, combine your sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and shredded cheddar cheese. Add in your seasonings and stir until everything is well mixed. This creamy blend will transform your potatoes into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece.

Next, spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or line it with a disposable liner. This step makes cleanup a breeze and keeps the cheesy sauce from sticking. Pour the diced potatoes into the slow cooker, then spoon the cheese mixture over the top. Give everything a gentle stir to coat the potatoes evenly.

Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 4-5 hours, or until the potatoes are tender. If you’re in a rush, you can cook them on high for 2-3 hours, but the longer, slower cooking time yields the creamiest texture.

Just before serving, give the potatoes one last stir and sprinkle with some additional cheese. Cover and let it melt for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of crispy bacon if you’re feeling extra indulgent.

These potatoes are best served hot, with the cheese sauce perfectly oozy and decadent. Expect happy faces all around your table!

Storage Options

Leftovers of Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes store beautifully, making them a great option for meal prep or saving for later.

To refrigerate, transfer the cooled potatoes to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture, as the sauce can thicken in the fridge.

For freezing, portion the potatoes into freezer-safe containers. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven or microwave.

When reheating, try to warm them slowly over medium heat, stirring often. This helps the cheese sauce become smooth again and prevents it from breaking.

Variations and Substitutions

The best part about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

If you’re looking to lighten things up, swap the sour cream for plain Greek yogurt and use a lower-fat cheddar cheese. The dish will still be creamy and flavorful, but with fewer calories.

For a meatier version, add cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham to the mix. It turns these cheesy potatoes into a heartier side or even a main course for a casual weeknight dinner.

Want to sneak in some veggies? Stir in some finely chopped broccoli or spinach before cooking. The vegetables will absorb the flavors of the cheese sauce and add a pop of color.

For a spicier kick, use pepper jack cheese and add diced green chiles or a sprinkle of cayenne. You can also top the finished dish with sliced jalapeños for an extra hit of heat.

Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends! Mozzarella, gouda, or even a smoky cheddar can add a new dimension of flavor to the classic recipe. The possibilities are truly endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative.

Enjoy your new favorite side dish, and don't be surprised when it steals the show at your next gathering!

Print