Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-Off Cooking : Let your slow cooker do all the work while you focus on other things.
- Creamy & Cheesy : A rich blend of cream soup, cheese, and butter creates a luscious texture.
- Customizable : Add bacon, onions, or spices to make it your own.
- Make-Ahead Friendly : Prep it in advance and let it cook while you relax.
- Crowd-Pleasing : Always a hit at potlucks, holidays, or casual weeknight dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 6–8
For the Dish:
- 4 medium russet potatoes , peeled and diced into bite-sized cubes
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for variety)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese , divided
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter , melted
- 1 small onion , finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper , to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Green onions , sliced
- Crispy bacon bits
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch, then pat dry with paper towels.
- If using bacon, cook it until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble in the Crockpot
- In a large slow cooker, combine the diced potatoes, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, melted butter, chopped onion (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to coat the potatoes evenly.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 3: Cook
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours , or until the potatoes are tender and the mixture is creamy. Stir occasionally if possible to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Add Final Touches
- During the last 15–20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover and let the cheese melt.
- Once done, stir in the crispy bacon bits (if using) and garnish with optional toppings like green onions or extra cheese.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve warm as a side dish or snack, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Why This Recipe Works
- Slow Cooker Magic : The low, steady heat allows the flavors to meld and the potatoes to become perfectly tender.
- Cheese Pull Factor : Cheddar cheese creates a velvety, indulgent base that everyone loves.
- Cream of Soup Shortcut : Adds richness and creaminess without needing heavy cream or complicated steps.
- Customizable Toppings : Bacon, green onions, or extra cheese take this dish to the next level.
Variations to Try
- Add Veggies : Stir in diced onions, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Spice It Up : Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup to keep it GF-friendly.
- Herbaceous Twist : Stir in fresh parsley, dill, or chives for added freshness.
- Make It Meatier : Add cooked, diced ham or shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier dish.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Skip the Broth : Chicken broth helps keep the potatoes moist and prevents the dish from drying out.
- Use Fresh Cheese : Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
- Romantic Touch : Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for elegance.
- Brunch Staple : Pair with coffee, tea, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
- Party Platter : Serve alongside grilled meats, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad for variety.
Final Thoughts
These Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes are a celebration of bold flavors, creamy textures, and effortless indulgence, offering a dish that feels luxurious yet approachable. With their customizable options, endless charm, and ease of preparation, they’re a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.
Your Turn! Have you ever made slow-cooker potatoes or experimented with creamy, cheesy dishes? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. 🥔