There’s something special about letting your slow cooker do the heavy lifting—especially when it results in creamy, cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes. This Crock Pot Cheesy Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort dish for holidays, potlucks, or simply a cozy weeknight meal. Loaded with tender hash browns, melty cheddar cheese, and a rich, creamy base, this casserole is easy to prepare and totally satisfying. You’ll love the “set it and forget it” simplicity, and your family will devour every bite. Make it your own by adding toppings like crumbled bacon, green onions, or even crushed crackers for extra crunch.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 (32 oz) bag frozen diced hash brown potatoes
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
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1 cup sour cream
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup melted butter
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½ cup chopped onion (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Directions:
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Spray the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, salt, pepper, and chopped onion (if using).
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Stir in the shredded cheese and frozen hash brown potatoes until evenly coated.
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Pour the mixture into the crock pot and spread it out evenly.
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Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
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Sprinkle additional cheese or parsley/green onions on top just before serving, if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 330 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
A Classic Comfort Dish: Crock Pot Cheesy Potato Casserole
Crock Pot Cheesy Potato Casserole, also known as “funeral potatoes” in some parts of the United States, is a beloved comfort food dish that has stood the test of time. Simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and consistently crowd-pleasing, this creamy, cheesy, slow-cooked casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a nostalgic, feel-good classic that brings people together around the table.
Its popularity spans generations and regions. Whether served at family reunions, church gatherings, holiday dinners, or casual weeknight meals, this casserole earns a spot as one of the most versatile and requested comfort dishes. When made in the crock pot, it becomes even more convenient—freeing up oven space and making prep and cleanup a breeze.
The Origin and Evolution of Cheesy Potato Casserole
Cheesy potato casserole first gained popularity in the Midwest, where it’s often associated with comfort meals and potlucks. Traditionally made with frozen hash browns, canned soup, sour cream, and cheese, the recipe was developed to be affordable, filling, and easily doubled or tripled for large gatherings.
Over time, the dish evolved as people began customizing it with different toppings, cheeses, or even protein additions like ham or bacon. However, the core of the dish remained the same: tender potatoes in a creamy, cheesy base with a crispy or golden top. The crock pot version has gained momentum over the last decade, as more families opt for hands-off meals that cook while they focus on work, parenting, or entertaining.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This specific Crock Pot Cheesy Potato Casserole recipe stands out for its simplicity and flavor balance. Unlike oven-baked versions that require constant monitoring or have a tendency to dry out, this slow-cooked method ensures consistently moist, perfectly cooked potatoes every time.
Here’s why it’s a winner:
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Set It and Forget It: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can load your slow cooker and walk away. Whether you’re prepping for a big holiday or just trying to survive a busy weekday, this recipe works around your schedule.
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Perfect Texture: Slow cooking allows the potatoes to soak up all the flavors without becoming mushy. The result is soft, flavorful bites with a rich, creamy consistency throughout.
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Fewer Dishes: No need to dirty multiple bowls, baking dishes, or pans. One bowl to mix and one slow cooker—that’s it.
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Great for All Skill Levels: Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is foolproof.
Ingredients That Make It Magic
The beauty of this dish lies in its accessibility. Every ingredient can be found in a standard grocery store, and most are pantry staples.
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Frozen Diced Hash Browns: These pre-cut potatoes are the ultimate time saver. They cook perfectly in the slow cooker without breaking down.
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Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds a savory, comforting flavor and creamy texture that forms the base of the casserole.
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Sour Cream: Balances the saltiness of the cheese and adds a mild tang that keeps the dish from becoming too rich.
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Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is recommended for the best flavor contrast. It melts well and brings that gooey, cheesy texture everyone loves.
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Melted Butter: Rounds out the flavors and adds extra richness.
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Onion (optional): For those who enjoy an extra punch of savory depth, chopped onion enhances the overall flavor.
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Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning brings out the best in the dish.
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Parsley or Green Onions (for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness to cut the richness.
Customization Ideas
One of the best aspects of Crock Pot Cheesy Potato Casserole is how easily you can customize it. Depending on your preferences or dietary needs, you can modify it in countless ways:
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Add Protein: Stir in cooked bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken to turn it into a full meal.
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Vegetable Boost: Mix in chopped broccoli, corn, or bell peppers for color and nutrition.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne, smoked paprika, or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
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Top It Off: Add crushed Ritz crackers, cornflakes, or buttered breadcrumbs at the end for texture (optional in the slow cooker, but a popular oven-baked finish).
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Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based sour cream, vegan cheese, and a dairy-free cream soup to make a lactose-friendly version.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is most often served as a side, but it can also be the star of the plate. Here are a few serving ideas:
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As a Side Dish: Perfect next to roast chicken, baked ham, BBQ ribs, or meatloaf.
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As a Main Course: Add ham or bacon and serve with a green salad for a balanced dinner.
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Brunch Option: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, fruit, and toast for a hearty brunch spread.
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Potluck Star: Always a hit on any buffet table—just keep it warm in the crock pot and watch it disappear.
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Holiday Favorite: A staple at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter as a comforting, make-ahead-friendly side dish.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This casserole is not just easy to make—it’s also great for planning ahead.
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Make-Ahead: You can mix everything the night before and store it in the fridge (covered tightly). The next day, just pour it into the slow cooker and start cooking.
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Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
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Freezer Friendly: You can freeze the uncooked casserole mixture in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before slow cooking.
Nutrition and Dietary Considerations
At approximately 330 kcal per serving, this casserole is hearty and filling, making it ideal for families. While not low-fat, you can adjust ingredients to reduce calories:
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Use reduced-fat cheese and sour cream.
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Opt for a low-sodium or homemade cream of chicken soup.
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Add in vegetables to increase fiber and nutrients.
This dish is naturally gluten-free if your soup and other ingredients are certified GF, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities (always check labels).
Why Families Love It
Families return to this recipe over and over for one simple reason—it works. It brings people together. It’s warm, it’s satisfying, and it reminds many of Sunday dinners at Grandma’s or cozy holiday meals.
The hands-off approach means it’s a lifesaver for busy households. Kids love it because of the cheese. Adults love it because it’s nostalgic and deeply satisfying. Even picky eaters tend to come back for seconds.
Tips for Crock Pot Success
Here are a few key tips to ensure your casserole comes out perfect every time:
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Don’t Overcook: While the crock pot is forgiving, cooking too long can make the potatoes too soft. Stick to the recommended times.
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Mix Well: Make sure the sauce coats every bit of potato evenly before pouring into the slow cooker.
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Use a Liner (optional): For super easy cleanup, slow cooker liners are a game changer.
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Avoid Lifting the Lid: Every time you lift the lid, heat escapes and adds 20+ minutes to the cooking time.
Perfect for All Occasions
Whether you’re feeding a crowd at Thanksgiving or just need a no-fuss side for dinner on a Tuesday, Crock Pot Cheesy Potato Casserole fits the bill. Its creamy, melty goodness pairs with nearly any protein, and it can adapt to any season.
Bringing a dish to a potluck? Hosting brunch? Cooking for picky eaters? This casserole is your secret weapon. It’s affordable, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Cheesy Potato Casserole is a timeless comfort food that blends convenience, flavor, and nostalgia in one dish. With its creamy texture, cheesy richness, and hands-off preparation, it’s no wonder this dish has become a household staple across generations. Whether you’re hosting a holiday meal, looking for a hearty side dish, or just want something simple and delicious, this slow-cooked casserole will not disappoint. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a reminder of how food brings comfort, joy, and connection. Add it to your rotation, and watch it become a favorite in your home too.
