This Crockpot Cheesy Potato Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and so easy to make! Just toss in potatoes, cheese, and a few tasty ingredients, then let the slow cooker do the work.
You can’t go wrong with melted cheese and tender potatoes! I love serving this as a side dish, and it always disappears fast—because who can resist all that cheesy goodness? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes; they hold their shape well and have a nice creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter dish, try using cauliflower instead of potatoes, but keep in mind it may change the flavor.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. If you need a dairy-free version, substitute with a plant-based sour cream or plain coconut yogurt.
Cream Cheese: Helps create a rich, creamy base. For a lower-fat option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese instead, which has less fat but a similar taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, but you can mix things up with mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a kick! If you need a lactose-free option, shredded lactose-free cheese works well.
Bacon Bits: Not a bacon fan? You can leave them out or use cooked and crumbled turkey bacon for a lighter choice.
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Tender?
Achieving perfectly tender potatoes in your crockpot is a breeze! Here’s how to do it:
- Cut your potatoes into even-sized cubes; this helps them cook uniformly.
- If you’re short on time, you can parboil the potatoes for just 5-10 minutes before adding them to the crockpot.
- Don’t rush the cooking time; cooking them on low for 4-5 hours works best for tenderness.
- Check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork; they should slide in easily when cooked through.
Following these steps will give you that melt-in-your-mouth potato texture that’s perfect for the casserole!
Crockpot Cheesy Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 6 medium-sized)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cheesy potato casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s a simple hands-off dish that makes it great for gatherings or a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Crockpot:
Start by spraying the inside of a large crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. This will help everything release easily when it’s done.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed potatoes, sour cream, softened cream cheese, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed, ensuring the potatoes are evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
3. Layer in the Crockpot:
Transfer the potato mixture into the prepared crockpot and spread it out evenly. Now, sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top, making it extra cheesy and delicious.
4. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the crockpot with a lid. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and easy to pierce with a fork.
5. Add the Final Touches:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the casserole. If you’re using bacon bits, sprinkle those on too. Cover the crockpot again, allowing the cheese to melt into a gooey topping.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, sprinkle with fresh chives or parsley for a bit of color. Serve warm as a delightful side dish for any meal!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy crockpot potato casserole that’s perfectly tender with a luscious melted cheese topping!
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes! Just add an extra hour to the cooking time on low or 30-45 minutes on high to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
Is It Possible to Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble all the ingredients in the crockpot, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting the slow cooker.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, adding a splash of milk or cream if it looks dry!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! You can customize this casserole by adding vegetables like broccoli or corn, or even by substituting different types of cheese such as mozzarella or cream cheese for a different flavor and texture. Just be careful not to overload it so the cooking times remain accurate!
