Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes

These cozy, Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes couldn’t be easier to make! This delightful potato side dish is perfect for holidays, parties, or casual dinners. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to impress. The slow cooker method makes it a convenient choice for busy days, allowing you to enjoy delicious food without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just mix all ingredients and let your slow cooker do the work.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and cream of chicken soup creates a mouthwatering taste.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to game day snacks.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: This dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and keep warm until you’re ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

To create these cheesy potatoes perfectly, having the right tools is key. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Mixing Bowl
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This essential tool allows for hands-off cooking, making meal prep a breeze.
• Mixing Bowl: A good mixing bowl ensures that all ingredients are combined evenly before cooking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements help achieve the best flavor balance in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Potato Mixture

• 32 ounces frozen diced potatoes
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 (10.5 ounce can) cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 – 1 teaspoon black pepper depending on taste
• 1 cup sour cream or 8 ounces softened cream cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Add all of the ingredients (using only 1 cup of the cheese) to a large bowl. Stir together until well-combined. Spray the insert of a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Transfer the potato mixture into the slow cooker, spreading it out in an even layer.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on high for 3 hours or on low for 6 hours. After cooking time, test the potatoes to ensure they are tender.

Step 3: Add Remaining Cheese

Once tender, add the remaining cup of cheese in an even layer over the top of the potatoes. Cover again and cook for an additional 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can switch your slow cooker to warm until you’re ready to serve.

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes as a perfect addition to any meal!

How to Serve Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes

Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes are a versatile side dish that can complement many meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

For a Holiday Feast

• With Roasted Turkey: Pair these cheesy potatoes with a succulent roasted turkey for a comforting holiday meal.
• Alongside Glazed Ham: The creamy texture of the potatoes perfectly balances the sweet flavors of glazed ham.

Game Day Delight

• As a Snack: Serve them in small cups as a hearty game day snack that everyone will love.
• With Buffalo Wings: These cheesy potatoes make an excellent side for spicy buffalo wings, providing a delicious contrast.

Casual Family Dinner

• With Grilled Chicken: The richness of Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes complements grilled chicken perfectly.
• Served with Meatloaf: This classic pairing makes for a satisfying and nostalgic family dinner.

How to Perfect Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes

Perfecting your Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes takes just a little attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Frozen Diced Potatoes: They cook evenly and save you prep time compared to fresh potatoes.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley before serving for added freshness and flavor.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for unique tastes.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before cooking to ensure the seasoning matches your preference.
• Keep Warm Settings Handy: If you’re not ready to serve immediately, switch to warm mode to keep the dish creamy and delicious.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes

Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes can shine alongside other dishes. Consider these complementary sides for a well-rounded meal.

1. Garlic Butter Green Beans: Crisp green beans sautéed in garlic butter add a fresh crunch.
2. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese flavors.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds sweetness and pairs well with cheesy flavors.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers introduce vibrant flavors and textures to your meal.
5. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans pairs harmoniously with savory cheesy potatoes.
6. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad offers a light counterpart that balances the richness of the potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong potatoes: Frozen diced potatoes are best for this recipe. Fresh potatoes may not cook evenly in the crockpot.

• Skipping the cheese layer: Not adding the remaining cheese at the end can result in a less cheesy and flavorful dish. Always save some cheese for the top!

• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times vary between slow cookers. Always check if the potatoes are tender before adding more cooking time.

• Ignoring seasoning: Not adjusting salt and pepper to your taste can lead to bland potatoes. Make sure to taste and adjust as you go.

• Not prepping the slow cooker: Forgetting to spray the insert can make cleanup difficult. Always grease your slow cooker before adding ingredients.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes will last up to 3–5 days in the fridge.
• Allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20–25 minutes.

• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of milk or cream. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the potato mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking it in the crockpot.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar cheese is ideal for cheesy flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added spice.

How do I know when my potatoes are done?

Check for tenderness by piercing them with a fork. They should be soft but not mushy when fully cooked.

Can I add vegetables to my Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes?

Absolutely! Chopped broccoli or bell peppers can add color and nutrition. Just ensure they are cut small enough to cook evenly.

Are these Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free cream of chicken soup or substitute it with another gluten-free option, this dish can be made gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes are a delightful side dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. Their creamy texture and cheesy goodness make them suitable for holidays, potlucks, or casual dinners. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite veggies or spices! Give this easy recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!