Get ready to transform your ordinary side dish into a creamy, cheesy sensation that will have everyone begging for seconds! These Crock Pot Cheesy Hash Brown Potatoes are the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines the simplicity of frozen hash browns with a luxurious blend of cheese, cream, and savory seasonings. Whether you're hosting a family dinner, potluck, or just craving some serious comfort food, this recipe is about to become your new go-to dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds frozen hash browns
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by allowing frozen hash browns to partially thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onions, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well blended.
- Add 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the soup mixture, stirring until cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Gently fold the partially thawed hash browns into the creamy cheese mixture, ensuring all potato pieces are thoroughly coated.
- Grease the interior of your crock pot with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the entire hash brown mixture into the prepared crock pot, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the potato mixture.
- Cover the crock pot and set to low heat setting.
- Cook for 4 hours, occasionally checking to ensure potatoes are not burning and are cooking evenly.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the lid to allow excess moisture to evaporate and cheese to become slightly crispy on top.
- Once cooking is complete, let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
- Serve hot as a side dish, garnishing with optional chopped chives or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Thawing is Key: Allow hash browns to partially thaw for even cooking and better texture absorption.
- Don't Overmix: Gently fold ingredients to maintain potato structure and prevent mushiness.
- Grease Prevention: Always spray or butter your crock pot to prevent sticking and easy cleanup.
- Cheese Distribution: Mix most of the cheese into the base mixture, reserving some for a crispy top layer.
- Moisture Control: Remove the lid in the last 30 minutes to reduce excess liquid and create a slightly crispy top.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the dish rest 10-15 minutes after cooking for better set and easier serving.
- Optional Enhancements: Garnish with fresh chives, green onions, or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.
- Temperature Tip: Use the low heat setting to ensure even, gentle cooking without burning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 55mg
