Cheesy Crock-Pot Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy crock-pot potatoes with crispy onion topping, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together the frozen shredded hash browns, Cheddar cheese soup, evaporated milk, and a few French-fried onion rings, saving some onion rings for topping.
- Cover and cook in the crock-pot on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours until hot and bubbly.
- Top with remaining French-fried onion rings before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked bacon or diced green onions. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the Cheddar cheese soup with a homemade cheese sauce or use low-fat versions of the ingredients. Adjust the cooking time based on your crock-pot model; some may require slightly less or more time for optimal results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheesy potatoes as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or as part of a potluck spread. They pair beautifully with dishes like Herbed Steak With Mustard Sauce or can be enjoyed on their own as a comforting meal. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh salad or steamed vegetables on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and warm in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Crock-Pot Potatoes contains roughly 686 calories, with 9g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 859mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh hash browns; however, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Fresh hash browns may cook more quickly than frozen, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
What can I add to make these potatoes spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce before cooking. You can also top the finished dish with sliced pickled jalapeños for an extra spicy kick.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just give it a good stir before placing it in the crock-pot and adjust the cooking time if it's starting from a cold temperature.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).