These Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes are creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to become a favorite side at any meal or gathering. With a rich sauce and melted cheese, these potatoes will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers the ultimate combination of creamy comfort and convenience. With minimal prep time and the ability to cook in a slow cooker, you can have a delicious, cheesy side dish ready without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooking process brings out the best in the flavors, while the creamy sauce and Gruyere cheese melt perfectly into the potatoes. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, these Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes are guaranteed to please!

Ingredients

1/4 cup (2 oz) butter
1/4 cup (30 g) flour
3/4 cup (6 oz) milk
1 cup (8 oz) chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup (8 oz) sour cream
1/2 cup (160 g) diced roasted red peppers
32 oz frozen southern-style hash brown potatoes
8 oz Gruyere cheese (cut into small cubes)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Cream Sauce:
- Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream and diced roasted red peppers.
Layer in the Slow Cooker:
- Spray the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- Layer half of the frozen hash browns, followed by half of the cream sauce, then sprinkle with half of the Gruyere cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
Serve:
- Once cooked, serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: If you prefer a different type of cheese, you can swap Gruyere for cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses.
Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra spicy flavor.
Vegetarian: Omit the chicken broth and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Additional Veggies: You can add other vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm them up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Just make sure to peel and shred them before adding them to the slow cooker. They may take a bit longer to cook than frozen hash browns.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate it before cooking. Just layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, cover, and store in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the directions and cook as usual.

3. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and cook the potatoes in a larger slow cooker. The cooking time may be slightly longer, so be sure to check for doneness.

4. What can I substitute for Gruyere cheese?

If you don’t have Gruyere, you can substitute with other melty cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss.

5. Can I cook this recipe on high if I’m short on time?

Yes, you can cook it on high for 3 hours instead of low for 5-6 hours. Just be sure to check it toward the end to make sure it doesn’t overcook.

6. Can I use a dairy-free alternative for sour cream?

Yes, you can use a dairy-free sour cream or a non-dairy yogurt for a vegan version of this recipe.

7. How can I make the dish more flavorful?

You can add extra seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of paprika for more depth of flavor.

8. Can I freeze Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

9. Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of frozen or fresh potatoes, but keep in mind that the texture and cooking time may vary slightly.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe contains flour, so it is not gluten-free. You can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

Conclusion

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes are a perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. With creamy, cheesy layers and a savory flavor, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these potatoes will never disappoint. Plus, the easy preparation makes it a perfect addition to any busy cook’s meal plan. Enjoy!

Emma

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes