Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes

Q: How Long Do They Keep in the Fridge?

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days . Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm throughout.

If you’re looking for a hearty, creamy, and downright irresistible side dish, these Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes will hit the spot every time. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a holiday gathering, or a church potluck, this fix-it-and-forget-it recipe blends convenience with comfort in every gooey bite. Made with simple ingredients and zero oven time, it’s a no-fail crowd-pleaser perfect for busy families and home cooks alike.

Looking for inspiration? Try our creamy scalloped potatoes recipe for a baked variation using Lactaid milk.

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Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes

This dish doesn’t just satisfy cravings—it solves mealtime chaos. Let’s break down why these cheesy potatoes deserve a permanent spot in your rotation.

Family-Favorite Comfort Food Made Easy

Slow cooker cheesy potatoes are the very definition of comfort food. Think rich, melty cheese clinging to tender, seasoned potatoes, slow-cooked to perfection. This recipe brings all the nostalgic flavor of grandma’s casserole with none of the hassle. It’s the kind of dish that both picky kids and hungry adults devour—and request again and again.

Plus, since it’s cooked in the slow cooker, the oven stays free for main dishes or desserts—ideal for holiday meals and multitasking!

Fix-It-and-Forget-It Convenience for Busy Days

What sets this dish apart? Its simplicity. You just mix everything together, dump it into your crockpot, and let it do its thing. No checking. No stirring. No stress.

The slow cooker works its magic over four hours, blending sour cream, cream of chicken soup, cheddar, and potatoes into one creamy, dreamy casserole. The final cheesy topping melts to golden perfection, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with home-cooked ease.

Don’t miss our crockpot chicken and rice recipe if you love set-it-and-forget-it dinners that satisfy everyone at the table.

Versatile for Dinners, Potlucks, Holidays & More

Whether you’re planning a weeknight side dish or a Thanksgiving table centerpiece, this recipe scales up beautifully. You can double or triple it for a crowd (just make sure you have an 8-quart slow cooker).

This recipe has also earned the nickname funeral potatoes, a term born from its comforting presence at community gatherings and memorial services. That alone speaks to how beloved and reliable it is.

Check out this southern green bean casserole recipe to pair it with another classic dish for your next potluck or church dinner.

Ingredients for the Best Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using pantry staples and freezer-friendly ingredients, you can whip up a rich and creamy potato side dish with minimal effort. Let’s break down exactly what you need—and how to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Pantry Staples and Simple Swaps

You don’t need fancy ingredients to make something that tastes this good. Here’s what goes into the classic version of slow cooker cheesy potatoes:

Frozen Diced Potatoes: These are the time-saver that makes this dish so fast. No peeling, chopping, or boiling required. You can substitute with fresh potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russets work best), but it’ll add prep time.
Cheddar Cheese: The hero of this dish. Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor or mild if you want it more kid-friendly. Pre-shredded works fine, but freshly grated melts better.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This gives the potatoes their signature creamy texture and savory depth. Don’t eat meat? You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery without drastically changing the flavor.
Sour Cream: Adds tang and creaminess. For a lighter dish, swap with plain Greek yogurt.
Diced Onion: Adds flavor and texture. You can sauté them first for a milder, sweeter taste—or skip them entirely if you’re in a rush.
Butter: Melted butter ties everything together and gives richness that coats every bite.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper are the usual suspects. You can adjust to your taste, but don’t skip the seasoning!

Learn more about the basics of making a great cheesy casserole in our cheesy root vegetable gratin recipe, which follows a similar flavor base.

Add-Ins to Customize Your Dish

One of the best parts of this recipe? It’s endlessly customizable. Once you’ve nailed the base version, try spicing it up with these add-ins:

Bacon: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon before slow cooking for smoky flavor. Add some on top before serving for extra crunch.
Green Onions or Chives: Toss in some chopped green onions at the end for freshness and color.
Bell Peppers: Diced red or green peppers add a sweet pop and a bit of crunch. Great for a Southwest twist.
Jalapeños: Want heat? Toss in a few diced jalapeños for a spicy cheesy potato casserole.
Ham or Sausage: Make it a main dish by stirring in leftover holiday ham or cooked breakfast sausage.
Broccoli or Cauliflower: Make it a sneaky veggie dish! Just blanch first so they don’t release too much water.

Looking for inspiration? Try our hearty stuffed pepper casserole for another easy way to mix veggies into cheesy comfort food.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes

Once your ingredients are ready, assembling and cooking this dish is as simple as it gets. Here’s exactly how to do it:

Mixing and Layering Ingredients the Right Way

Start by spraying your slow cooker with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

In a large bowl, combine the frozen diced potatoes, diced onion, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture into the slow cooker. Smooth out the top using a spoon or spatula. This ensures even cooking and a beautifully melted cheese layer at the end.

Slow Cooking Settings and Time-Saving Tips

Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 4 hours. You can check around the 3-hour mark if your slow cooker runs hot, but usually the full 4 hours is perfect for tender, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes.

Once cooked, remove the lid and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover again and cook for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.

Don’t overcook it—overdone potatoes can turn mushy and lose their texture.

Final Cheesy Topping & Serving Ideas

Once done, garnish with green onions or crispy bacon bits if desired. Serve warm straight from the crockpot for easy cleanup and less mess.

This dish goes perfectly with ham, grilled meats, or even alongside eggs and toast for brunch.

Check out our crockpot kielbasa and green beans for a full slow cooker meal idea that pairs beautifully with cheesy potatoes.

Oven Method for Cheesy Potatoes (Alternative Cooking Option)

No slow cooker? No problem. You can still make this dish in the oven.

When You Don’t Want to Use the Crockpot

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Follow the same ingredient mixing steps. Instead of layering cheese separately, mix all the cheese into the casserole before baking.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 40–45 minutes, removing the foil during the last 10–15 minutes to brown the top.

How to Adjust Timing and Cheese Melt Factor

To get the top perfectly bubbly, consider turning on the broiler for 2–3 minutes at the end—just don’t walk away while it’s broiling.

You can prep this dish the night before and store it in the fridge, then bake or slow-cook the next day.

Delicious Pairings: What to Serve with Cheesy Potatoes

Looking to round out your meal? Here are some perfect matches.

Main Courses That Pair Well

Glazed ham
Grilled chicken
BBQ ribs
Roast turkey
Meatloaf

Looking for something lighter? Try it with a green salad or roasted veggies for balance.

Other Slow Cooker Sides to Round Out the Meal

Creamed corn
Southern-style green beans
Mac and cheese
Slow cooker chicken and gravy

These dishes complement the creamy texture of cheesy potatoes and make holiday or Sunday dinners a breeze.

Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Variations You’ll Want to Try

Love the classic version? Here are fun ways to remix it.

Southwest-Style with Taco Seasoning and Corn

Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn to the base mixture for a Tex-Mex twist. Top with pepper jack cheese and jalapeños for heat.

Breakfast Casserole Twist with Eggs and Sausage

Stir in cooked breakfast sausage and shredded hash browns. Crack in a few beaten eggs and let it cook through. A complete one-dish breakfast.

Vegetarian-Friendly Using Cream of Celery Soup

Swap out the cream of chicken for cream of celery or mushroom. Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a veggie-packed option.

FAQ: Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes

Can I Freeze Leftover Cheesy Potatoes?

Yes! Let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Are Cheesy Potatoes Gluten-Free?

Not always. Most cream soups contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free condensed soup or make your own with cornstarch.

How Long Do They Keep in the Fridge?

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm throughout.

Can I Use Hash Browns Instead of Diced Potatoes?

Absolutely. Shredded hash browns create a creamier texture and cook slightly faster. No need to adjust the seasoning.

Conclusion: Make These Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Tonight

Whether you’re feeding a family of five or bringing a dish to your next potluck, slow cooker cheesy potatoes never disappoint. With minimal prep, rich cheesy flavor, and crowd-pleasing appeal, this side dish deserves a regular place in your meal plan. Don’t miss our crock-pot pork chops recipe to turn this into a complete, cozy slow cooker dinner.

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