There's nothing quite like the anticipation of lifting the lid off your slow cooker to reveal a bubbling, golden dish of cheesy potatoes. The aroma alone is enough to make everyone in the house gravitate toward the kitchen, forks in hand. This simple yet indulgent side dish has been a family favorite in my home, perfect for everything from holiday dinners to comforting weeknight meals.
I first discovered the magic of slow-cooked cheesy potatoes when looking for a fuss-free side that wouldn’t require much attention. What started as a convenient experiment quickly became a recipe I couldn’t stop making. You’re going to love how easy and irresistible it is!
Why You'll Love These Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes
Get ready to fall head over heels for these creamy, cheesy potatoes. Trust me, this recipe checks all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.
First off, you won’t believe how simple the preparation is. With just a few minutes of active time and minimal chopping, your slow cooker does all the hard work. Perfect for busy days when you want to set it and forget it, this recipe practically makes itself.
The rich, cheesy flavor is a guaranteed hit. Layers of tender potatoes smothered in a creamy, flavorful sauce ensure that every bite is comforting and satisfying. No matter the occasion, everyone will be scraping their plates clean.
Even better, this recipe is highly customizable. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or trying to use up ingredients from your pantry, these cheesy potatoes adapt beautifully. Add in some veggies or play around with different cheese blends for a unique twist.
And finally, these cheesy potatoes make a fantastic addition to any meal. They pair beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even as a stand-alone dish for those cozy nights when comfort food is the only thing on your mind.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of these slow cooker cheesy potatoes lies in a handful of simple ingredients that come together perfectly. Here’s what you’ll need to create this crowd-pleaser.
The star of the show is russet potatoes. They hold up well during the slow cooking process and become soft and creamy without falling apart. You could also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly buttery texture, but russets are the classic choice here.
Cheese is essential for that indulgent, melty goodness. I recommend using a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella. The cheddar brings bold flavor, while the mozzarella adds a stretchy, gooey texture. For a little kick, you can also sprinkle in some pepper jack.
To make the creamy base, you’ll use sour cream and cream cheese. These two ingredients work together to create a rich sauce that coats the potatoes beautifully. If you prefer a lighter version, feel free to substitute with Greek yogurt, but the flavor will be slightly tangier.
Chicken broth helps to keep everything moist and adds a subtle savory note to the dish. It’s the perfect way to balance out the richness of the cheese and dairy without overpowering the flavors.
Lastly, don’t forget the seasonings. A simple combination of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper enhances the overall taste of the dish. Freshly chopped green onions add a pop of freshness at the end, making every bite even more delicious.
How To Make These Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes

Creating these slow cooker cheesy potatoes couldn’t be easier. Let me walk you through the process step by step.
Start by peeling and slicing your potatoes into thin, even rounds. You want them to be about ⅛-inch thick to ensure they cook evenly. If you have a mandoline, it’s a great tool for getting perfectly uniform slices in no time.
Next, prepare the creamy cheese mixture. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and chicken broth. Use a whisk to blend everything together until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella, reserving a bit of each cheese to sprinkle on top later. Add in your garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, mixing until well combined.
Now it’s time to assemble. Grease the inside of your slow cooker with a bit of non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom, then spread half of the creamy cheese mixture over the top. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce, making sure everything is well coated.
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the reserved cheese on top and cover again, letting it melt to golden perfection.
Once done, garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and watch your guests dive in with joy. Total prep and cook time will be around 5 hours, with only about 15 minutes of hands-on preparation. Perfect for busy days or when you’re entertaining and want something easy yet impressive.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (though that’s rare!), storing these cheesy potatoes is simple. Transfer the cooled potatoes into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. They reheat beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop, though the texture may be slightly softer.
For longer storage, you can freeze the potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Keep in mind that freezing may alter the sauce’s texture slightly, but the flavors will remain delicious.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to keep the potatoes creamy and prevent them from drying out. Give everything a good stir and enjoy!
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about these slow cooker cheesy potatoes is how versatile they are. Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own.
For a veggie boost, add a layer of diced bell peppers or chopped broccoli between the potato layers. These vegetables will cook beautifully alongside the potatoes, adding color and nutrients.
If you like a bit of heat, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or use a spicier cheese like pepper jack. Just a hint of spice can take these cheesy potatoes to the next level, especially if you enjoy bold flavors.
For a fun twist, use different cheese varieties. Smoked gouda adds a unique flavor, while Monterey jack keeps things mild and creamy. You can even sprinkle some Parmesan on top for a crispy, golden crust.
If you’re making this dish for a special occasion, consider topping the potatoes with buttery breadcrumbs for added texture. Just mix melted butter with panko breadcrumbs, sprinkle over the potatoes during the last 30 minutes, and let them crisp up beautifully.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment! This recipe is forgiving and adaptable, so feel free to try new combinations that suit your taste and dietary preferences.
PrintSlow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes recipe is a simple and delicious side dish made with tender potatoes, creamy cheese, and seasonings. It's perfect for holiday meals, potlucks, or a comforting dinner accompaniment. Make these cheesy potatoes in your slow cooker for a fuss-free dish that's always a hit!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 lbs of frozen diced hash brown potatoes
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- ½ cup chopped onion (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the hash brown potatoes, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, and chopped onion (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into the slow cooker and spread it evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can add diced ham or cooked bacon for extra flavor.
- Swap out cheddar cheese for a cheese blend if preferred.
- For a crispy topping, transfer to a baking dish and broil for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
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