Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes 🥔🧀 – Creamy, Rich & Totally Irresistible

Looking for a hands-off side dish that bakes to golden perfection in your slow cooker? These Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes are your new favorite comfort food!

This dreamy potato bake simmers low and slow in the crockpot until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden and bubbly. With layers of melted cheddar, sour cream, garlic, and buttery goodness, it’s the kind of dish that makes everyone come back for seconds — especially at family dinners, holidays, or potlucks.

Let’s dive into how to make this melt-in-your-mouth cheesy potato magic!

🧄 Why You’ll Love Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes

• Set-it-and-forget-it : No boiling or baking required.
• Super creamy texture : The potatoes absorb the rich dairy as they cook.
• Golden, crispy top : A surprise layer of baked cheese on top adds crunch.
• Perfect for gatherings : Feeds a crowd with minimal effort.
• Great make-ahead dish : Prep the night before and slow-cook when ready.

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

• 4–5 cups thinly sliced russet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cheddar soup
• 1 cup milk or half-and-half
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, bacon bits, or fresh herbs

🔪 Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker (quart size — 5–6 quart works best)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring tools
• Knife or mandoline for slicing potatoes
• Spatula or wooden spoon

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes using a knife or mandoline — aim for slices about ⅛-inch thick for even cooking.

Tip: Soak slices in cold water briefly to remove excess starch for smoother texture.

Step 2: Mix the Cheesy Sauce

In a mixing bowl:

1. Combine:
   • Sour cream
   • Cream of mushroom or cheddar soup
   • Milk or half-and-half
   • Garlic powder , onion powder , salt , and pepper

Stir well until smooth.

Step 3: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or butter.

Layer the ingredients like lasagna:

1. Start with a thin layer of sauce on the bottom.
2. Add a layer of potato slices .
3. Pour over some cheese sauce .
4. Repeat layers, finishing with a final top layer of sauce and cheddar cheese .

Step 4: Cook on Low & Let Melt

Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours , until potatoes are fork-tender and the top is bubbly and lightly browned.

Step 5: Let Rest & Serve

Let the potatoes sit for 10–15 minutes before serving — this helps them set and makes scooping easier.

Top with chopped green onions , crispy bacon , or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• As a side to roast chicken, grilled steak, or ham .
• Topped with avocado or salsa for a Tex-Mex twist.
• Scooped into bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan or chili flakes .
• Try it with a poached egg on top for a brunch-ready version.
• Pairs perfectly with garlic bread and a green salad .

🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers covered in fridge for up to 4 days .
• Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months — thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in oven at 300°F (150°C) or microwave in short bursts (cover with damp paper towel).

✅ Expert Tips for Success

• Use thin, even potato slices for best results — thick ones won’t cook through properly.
• Don’t skip resting time — it gives the sauce a chance to thicken.
• For extra richness, add cream of celery soup or a splash of heavy cream .
• Want it lighter? Substitute half the cheese with mashed cauliflower or Greek yogurt .
• Make it vegetarian : Skip bacon garnish or use smoked salt for flavor.

🧠 Nutritional Highlights

While indulgent, these potatoes offer more than just flavor:

• Potatoes deliver potassium and complex carbs.
• Cheese and sour cream give calcium and healthy fats in moderation.
• Garlic and onion powder support immune health and digestion.
• Perfect for balanced meals when paired with lean protein or greens.

📝 Final Thoughts

These Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes prove that you don’t need an oven or stove to make something deeply comforting. With its silky sauce, tender potatoes, and golden crust on top, it’s a creamy dream that practically cooks itself.

Whether you’re hosting guests, feeding hungry kids, or looking for a holiday side that disappears fast, this recipe brings warmth, flavor, and convenience straight to your table.

So plug in your slow cooker, stack those layers, and get ready to fall in love with every cheesy, buttery bite!