Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes with Frozen Hashbrowns

These Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and loaded with melty cheese. Using frozen hashbrowns makes this recipe incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a simple weeknight side dish. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation – Just dump and go—no need to pre-cook anything.
• Creamy and cheesy – A rich, flavorful dish with gooey melted cheese.
• Great for gatherings – Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, and holidays.
• Versatile – Serve as a side dish for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
• Made with simple ingredients – Uses pantry staples for a budget-friendly dish.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Frozen hashbrowns (shredded or cubed)
• Cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
• Butter (melted)
• Onion (finely chopped)
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Crushed crackers or cornflakes (for topping, optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or butter.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine frozen hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, melted butter, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Pour the mixture into the slow cooker and spread evenly.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until hot and bubbly.
5. Add Topping (Optional): If using a crispy topping, sprinkle crushed crackers or cornflakes over the potatoes in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve & Enjoy: Stir before serving and garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 4-5 hours

Variations

• Bacon Cheesy Potatoes: Stir in cooked bacon bits for extra flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Extra Creamy: Mix in ½ cup of cream cheese.
• Meaty Option: Add cooked ground sausage, ham, or shredded chicken.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: Use cream of mushroom soup and add bell peppers or spinach.

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?

Yes! Peel and shred 4-5 medium potatoes, then squeeze out excess moisture before using.

Can I make this without cream soup?

Yes! Replace it with a mix of 1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup broth, and 1 tbsp flour.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend works well too.

Can I add veggies?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions.

Can I bake this instead of using a slow cooker?

Yes! Bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes in a greased 9×13-inch dish.

Why are my potatoes still firm?

If using cubed hashbrowns, they may need extra cooking time. Stir occasionally for even heat.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! Mix everything together, store in the fridge overnight, and cook the next day.

How do I make it lighter?

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and a low-fat cheese blend.

What can I serve with cheesy potatoes?

They pair well with grilled meats, eggs, or as a holiday side dish.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the “Slow Cook” function or pressure cook for 8 minutes, then quick release.

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes with Frozen Hashbrowns are an easy, comforting, and crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, their creamy, cheesy goodness will have everyone coming back for seconds! Try them today and enjoy a hassle-free, delicious meal.

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