Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes: The Ultimate Creamy, Comforting Side Dish
Looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-easy to make? These Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes are the answer! Tender, diced potatoes are slow-cooked in a rich, velvety sauce made with cream of chicken soup and plenty of melted cheese, creating a dish that’s pure comfort in every bite. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, holiday gathering, or potluck, these potatoes are guaranteed to disappear fast. 🥔🧀
With the magic of the crockpot, this recipe requires minimal effort—just toss the ingredients together, set it, and forget it until it’s time to eat. The result is a warm, gooey, and flavorful side that pairs perfectly with your favorite mains, like Grilled Ribeye Steak or Grilled Chicken. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through every step, share expert tips for the best cheesy potatoes, explore the nutritional benefits, and offer variations to suit any taste or dietary need. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes recipe is a winner for so many reasons:
- Effortless Prep: With just 10 minutes of prep, the crockpot does all the work, making it perfect for busy days.
- Comfort Food Classic: Creamy, cheesy, and hearty, it’s the ultimate side dish for cozy meals.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or holidays.
- Versatile: Customize with different cheeses, soups, or add-ins like bacon or veggies.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance, and let it cook while you focus on other tasks.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have on hand.
The aroma of melting cheese and tender potatoes will fill your kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in. Whether you’re a slow-cooker pro or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and delivers big on flavor!
Nutritional Benefits of This Dish
While this Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes recipe is indulgent, it offers some nutritional value when enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Potatoes: Energy and Nutrients
Potatoes are a great source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy, and potassium, which supports heart health. They’re also rich in vitamin C and fiber (especially with the skin on), aiding digestion and immunity.
2. Cheese: Protein and Calcium
Cheddar cheese (a likely ingredient) adds protein (about 7 grams per ounce) and calcium for strong bones and teeth. However, it’s high in saturated fat, so portion control is key.
3. Cream of Chicken Soup: Flavor Base
Cream of chicken soup provides a creamy texture and savory flavor but can be high in sodium. Opt for low-sodium versions to make the dish healthier.
4. Optional Add-Ins: Extra Nutrients
Adding veggies like onions or broccoli can boost fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while bacon adds protein but also sodium and fat.
With approximately 300–350 kcal per serving, this dish is rich and satisfying, best paired with lighter mains like a salad or your Marinated Tomatoes with Mozzarella for balance.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes for 6–8 servings. I’ve completed the ingredients list based on standard recipes for this dish.
For the Cheesy Potatoes:
- 7–8 large potatoes (about 3 lbs, Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, divided)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk (optional, to thin the sauce if needed)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- Extra shredded cheese (optional)
- Optional: crispy bacon bits for a smoky touch
Optional Add-Ins:
- Diced onion or green onion for flavor
- Frozen peas or broccoli for added veggies
- Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This slow-cooker recipe requires minimal equipment:
- Crockpot (4–6 quart size)
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for mixing)
- Serving dish or bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create the creamiest Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes. We’ve included tips for perfect results.
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and dice: Peel the 7–8 large potatoes (if desired; you can leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients). Dice into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Rinse: Rinse the diced potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch, then pat dry with a paper towel to prevent a gummy texture.
Tip: If prepping ahead, soak diced potatoes in cold water (in the fridge) for up to 24 hours to prevent browning. Drain and pat dry before using.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- Combine in a bowl: In a large mixing bowl, mix the diced potatoes with 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1 cup sour cream, 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup melted butter, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Stir until the potatoes are evenly coated.
- Adjust consistency: If the mixture seems too thick, add 1/4 cup milk to thin it slightly, ensuring a creamy sauce.
Tip: For extra flavor, sauté diced onions in butter before adding to the mix, or stir in a handful of frozen veggies like peas or broccoli.
Step 3: Cook in the Crockpot
- Transfer to crockpot: Lightly grease the crockpot insert with cooking spray or butter. Pour the potato mixture into the crockpot, spreading it evenly.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top for a cheesy crust.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Stir gently halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this releases heat and can extend cooking time. If the potatoes aren’t tender after the suggested time, continue cooking in 30-minute increments.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish: Once cooked, transfer the cheesy potatoes to a serving dish or serve directly from the crockpot. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives, and add extra cheese or bacon bits if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve warm as a side dish alongside your Grilled Ribeye Steak, Grilled Chicken, or a fresh salad like Marinated Tomatoes with Mozzarella.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 4–5 hours (low) or 2–3 hours (high)
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (low) or 2 hours 10 minutes (high)
Servings: 6–8
Calories: ~300–350 kcal per serving
Protein: ~8–10g per serving
Tips for Perfect Results
To ensure your Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes turn out perfectly, try these tips:
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes hold their shape well, while Yukon Golds offer a creamier texture. Avoid waxy varieties like red potatoes, as they can become mushy.
- Even Dicing: Cut potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes for consistent cooking. Too large, and they’ll take longer; too small, and they’ll turn to mush.
- Cheese Options: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, but you can mix in Monterey Jack, Colby, or mozzarella for variety.
- Prevent Curdling: If adding milk, mix it in gradually and avoid overheating, as dairy can curdle at high temperatures.
- Crispy Topping: For a crunchy finish, transfer the cooked potatoes to an oven-safe dish, top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is highly customizable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
Potato Variations
- Hashbrowns: Use frozen hashbrowns (thawed) instead of fresh potatoes for a quicker prep.
- Sweet Potatoes: Swap half the potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweet-savory twist.
- Baby Potatoes: Use halved baby potatoes (skin-on) for a rustic look.
Cheese and Soup Swaps
- Cheese Options: Try pepper jack for a spicy kick, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for extra stretchiness.
- Soup Variations: Use cream of mushroom, celery, or cheddar soup instead of cream of chicken. For a vegetarian version, ensure the soup is meat-free.
- Homemade Sauce: Replace canned soup with a homemade cheese sauce (melted butter, flour, milk, and cheese) for a fresher taste.
Add-Ins
- Protein: Stir in cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or crumbled sausage for a heartier dish.
- Veggies: Add diced bell peppers, broccoli, or peas for color and nutrition.
- Spice: Mix in a pinch of cayenne, smoked paprika, or diced jalapeños for heat.
Dietary Adjustments
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cream soup (or make your own) and double-check seasonings.
- Dairy-Free: Swap cheese for dairy-free alternatives, use vegan butter, and replace sour cream with a plant-based version.
- Low-Carb: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version.
Storage and Reheating
This dish is great for leftovers or meal prep:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave (1–2 minutes per serving) or in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes until warmed through. Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Tip: For a crispy twist, reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, to create a golden crust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this without a crockpot?
Yes! Bake in a greased casserole dish at 350°F for 1–1.5 hours, covered with foil for the first 45 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
2. Why are my potatoes mushy?
Overcooking or using the wrong type of potato (e.g., waxy varieties) can cause mushiness. Stick to Russets or Yukon Golds and check for doneness early.
3. Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes! Use frozen diced potatoes or hashbrowns (thawed and patted dry) to save time. Reduce cooking time by 30–60 minutes, as they cook faster.
4. How do I make it less heavy?
Use low-fat sour cream, reduce the cheese to 1 cup, and opt for a low-sodium soup to lighten the dish without sacrificing flavor.
5. Can I add a crunchy topping?
Yes! Before serving, top with crushed Ritz crackers, breadcrumbs, or French’s fried onions, and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden.
Pairing Suggestions
Round out your Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes with these complementary dishes:
- Main Dish: Serve with your Grilled Ribeye Steak, Grilled Chicken, or a roasted turkey for holiday feasts.
- Salad: Pair with Marinated Tomatoes with Mozzarella or a crisp green salad for balance.
- Veggie: Add steamed broccoli or green beans for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Dessert: Finish with your Air Fried Apple Wedges with Caramel Whipped Cream for a sweet treat.
- Drink: A light beer, iced tea, or sparkling water with lemon.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes recipe is the ultimate comfort food side dish, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with the ease of slow-cooker cooking. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts, it’s a versatile, budget-friendly dish that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it with your favorite add-ins, these potatoes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Try it today and share the love! Post your creations on social media, tag your website, or leave a comment below with your favorite crockpot tips. Happy cooking! 🥔😍
