Introduction
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes are the embodiment of comfort food. This creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow-cooking method allows the potatoes to absorb all the rich flavors, resulting in a deliciously satisfying meal that will have everyone going back for seconds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
7–8 large potatoes, peeled and diced (around 1.5 kg)
300 ml can cream of chicken soup (or any creamed soup of your choice)
60 ml butter, melted
120 ml sour cream
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
60 g chopped green onion (or regular onion)
Pinch of cayenne pepper
100 g shredded Mexican-style cheese (or cheese of your choice)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4–6 hours (low)
Total Time: Up to 6 hours
Yield: 8 servings
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes are not just easy to prepare; they are also versatile. You can customize the dish by adjusting the types of cheese or the level of spice to match your family’s taste. Serve these potatoes as a side dish alongside your favorite meats or enjoy them on their own as a comforting meal. With minimal effort, you can create a warm and inviting dish that everyone will love!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by peeling and dicing 7–8 large potatoes into bite-sized pieces, ensuring even cooking throughout the dish. The potatoes should yield around 1.5 kg once diced.
Mix the Ingredients
In your crockpot, add the diced potatoes. Then pour in 300 ml of cream of chicken soup. Drizzle in 60 ml of melted butter and add 120 ml of sour cream. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon each of garlic powder and black pepper, alongside 1 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste) and 1 teaspoon of dried parsley flakes. Toss in 60 g of chopped green onion and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Stir all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined, creating a creamy base around the potatoes.
Add the Cheese
Sprinkle 100 g of shredded Mexican-style cheese over the mixture in the crockpot. Mix again to ensure that the cheese is evenly distributed among the potatoes and other ingredients.
Slow Cook the Potatoes
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. The goal is for the potatoes to become tender and fully cooked, absorbing all the rich flavors from the other ingredients.
Stir Occasionally
Every 2–3 hours, give the mixture a gentle stir. This will help achieve even cooking, preventing any sticking to the sides of the crockpot and ensuring every bite is creamy and flavorful.
Final Touch and Serve
Once the cooking time is complete and the potatoes are fork-tender, give the dish a final stir. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley or green onion if desired. The aroma will be irresistible, with creamy textures and cheesy goodness that beckons everyone to dive into their second helping.
Notes
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings, making it perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply a cozy family meal.
Cooking Time Variance
Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size of the potato pieces and the specific crockpot used. Make sure to check for doneness before serving.
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to customize this dish by substituting the cream of chicken soup with any creamed soup of your choice. Adding extra vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers can also enhance the flavor and nutrition.
Leftover Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if necessary to regain creaminess.
Cook techniques
Preparation of Potatoes
Peel and dice the potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and tenderness. A consistent size allows for optimal texture and flavor throughout the dish.
Mixing Ingredients
Combine all the ingredients in the crockpot to create a harmonious blend of flavors. Stir thoroughly to ensure the potatoes are well coated with the cream, spices, and cheese.
Slow Cooking
Set your crockpot on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. Cooking slowly allows the flavors to meld and the potatoes to become creamy and tender without losing texture.
Stirring during Cooking
Every 2-3 hours, give the mixture a gentle stir to promote even cooking and prevent any sticking or burning. This step is crucial for maintaining the creaminess of the dish.
Serving Suggestion
Once cooked, serve the cheesy potatoes hot. You can enhance the presentation with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional green onions for a burst of color and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite types of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a combination for a unique flavor profile.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.
How do I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients a day in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. Just add them to the crockpot in the morning and start cooking.
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Frozen diced potatoes can be used, but cooking time may vary. Ensure they are fully cooked and tender before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of chicken soup or any alternative creamed soup that is certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal, providing both comfort and satisfaction. Their creamy texture and cheesy flavor make them a family favorite, perfect for gatherings or quiet nights at home. The ease of preparation allows you to enjoy the rich taste without spending hours in the kitchen. What’s better is that they can be customized to your liking, making this dish versatile and exciting.
Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Casserole
Incorporate fresh or frozen broccoli florets into the potato mixture for a vegetable boost. This combination adds color and nutrition while keeping the cheesy essence.
Loaded Baked Potato Style
Top your finished cheesy potatoes with crumbled bacon, more cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. This variation brings the classic loaded baked potato experience right to your crockpot.
Spicy Southwest Variation
Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies to give your cheesy potatoes a zesty twist. Season with additional spices like cumin and chili powder for extra flavor.
Cheesy Chicken and Potatoes
Mix in cooked, shredded chicken to turn your cheesy potatoes into a hearty main dish. The chicken adds protein and makes this meal even more filling.
Herb-Infused Cheesy Potatoes
Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning. This will enhance the flavor profile and add aromatic depth to your crockpot creation.
Garlic and Spinach Delight
For a healthy option, add sautéed garlic and fresh spinach before serving. This boosts the nutritional value while providing a deliciously fresh taste.
Sweet Potato Variation
Substitute half of the regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness and a different texture that complements the cheesy sauce incredibly well.
