Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

The Best Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe for Cozy Gatherings

Warm, gooey crockpot cheesy potatoes bring comfort straight to your dinner table.

Creamy cheese melts perfectly into soft potato chunks during slow cooking.

Hearty side dishes like these create instant smiles around any gathering.

Simple ingredients transform into something magical with minimal kitchen effort.

cheesy goodness waits inside this uncomplicated recipe that anyone can master.

Crispy edges and rich flavors promise a delightful experience everyone will love.

Let’s uncover how easy it is to make these irresistible potatoes that will have people asking for seconds.

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes That Melt in Your Mouth

  • Simplify Meal Prep: Crockpot cheesy potatoes eliminate complex cooking steps, allowing you to toss ingredients together without constant monitoring.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Rich, creamy cheese sauce and tender potatoes create a universally loved side dish that satisfies both kids and adults.
  • Versatile Serving Option: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, holiday gatherings, or as a hearty accompaniment to main courses like roasted chicken or grilled meats.
  • Minimal Cleanup Delight: One-pot cooking means fewer dishes to wash, making this recipe a stress-free solution for busy home cooks who want delicious results without extensive kitchen work.

Ingredients for Slow-Cooked Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes

Main Ingredients:
  • Potatoes: Starchy, hearty vegetables that form the base of this comforting dish.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and flavorful cheese that provides a rich, tangy taste to the potatoes.
  • Cream Cheese: Smooth and creamy cheese that adds a luxurious texture to the dish.
Dairy and Creamy Components:
  • Sour Cream: Adds a tangy richness and helps create a creamy sauce.
  • Butter: Provides additional richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
Seasoning and Aromatics:
  • Onion, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Enhance the overall flavor profile with savory and aromatic notes.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and highlight the other ingredients.
Garnish:
  • Paprika, Fresh Parsley: Adds color, mild spice, and a fresh finish to the dish.

How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes with Minimal Effort

Step 1: Prepare Potato Base

Wash potatoes thoroughly and slice them into uniform cubes.

Transfer the diced potatoes directly into the crockpot, ensuring an even layer at the bottom of the cooking vessel.

Step 2: Craft Creamy Cheese Blend

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Softened cream cheese
  • Tangy sour cream
  • Melted unsalted butter
  • Finely chopped yellow onion
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Stir the ingredients until they form a smooth, consistent mixture.

Step 3: Combine and Coat

Pour the rich cheese sauce over the potato cubes.

Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently fold and coat each potato piece, ensuring complete coverage of the creamy mixture.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and set to low heat for 6-7 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours.

The potatoes are ready when they become fork-tender and the cheese sauce is bubbling.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Give the potatoes a final gentle stir to redistribute the sauce.

Sprinkle with sweet paprika and freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and additional flavor before serving hot.

Pro Tips for Perfectly Melted and Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes

  • Soak diced potatoes in cold water for 15 minutes to remove excess starch and keep them looking fresh and white.
  • Let cheese mixture sit at room temperature before mixing to ensure smoother, more even blending and better coating of potatoes.
  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture for an extra layer of complexity and subtle heat.
  • Stir potatoes halfway through cooking to distribute heat evenly and prevent sticking at the bottom of the crockpot.
  • Substitute full-fat cheeses and cream with reduced-fat versions or Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier dish without compromising taste.

Flavor Variations to Try with Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes

  • Vegan Comfort Spuds: Replace dairy ingredients with cashew cream, nutritional yeast, plant-based butter, and dairy-free cheese alternatives for a rich, creamy vegan version.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Bake: Swap potatoes with cauliflower florets to create a keto-friendly dish that maintains the same cheesy, comforting texture.
  • Herb-Infused Potato Medley: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage to the cheese mixture for an aromatic herb-packed version that elevates the classic recipe.
  • Spicy Southwest Potato Casserole: Mix in diced green chiles, jalapeños, and sprinkle with chili powder to give the dish a zesty, southwestern kick.

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes

  • Comfort Food Companion: Pair these creamy potatoes with roasted chicken or grilled steak for a hearty meal that satisfies.
  • Weekend Brunch Star: Serve alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon to create a delicious weekend breakfast spread that'll impress your family.
  • Party-Perfect Side Dish: Bring this cheesy potato casserole to potlucks or holiday gatherings where it'll quickly become everyone's favorite side dish.
  • Fresh Herb Elevation: Sprinkle extra chopped fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving to add a bright, fresh flavor and beautiful green color contrast.

How to Store Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes for Freshness

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
  • Transfer cooled potatoes to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date and contents.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm.
  • Spread potatoes in baking dish. Add splash of milk to prevent dryness. Cover with foil. Warm at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can swap cheddar with monterey jack, gruyere, or a cheese blend for varied flavors.

  • Are frozen potatoes acceptable for this recipe?

Fresh potatoes work best, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them completely to prevent excess moisture.

  • How can I make this dish lighter or healthier?

Use low-fat cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and reduce butter quantity to cut calories.

  • What side dishes complement these cheesy potatoes?

Roasted chicken, grilled steak, baked ham, or green salad pair wonderfully with this creamy potato dish.

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Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Recipe


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4.8 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Creamy crockpot cheesy potatoes bring comfort to dinner tables across North America. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a rich side dish that warms souls and satisfies hunger without complicated preparation.


Ingredients

Scale

Dairy Products:

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) melted butter

Main Ingredients:

  • 6 to 8 medium-sized russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced

Seasonings and Herbs:

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Meticulously scrub and cube the russet potatoes into uniform bite-sized pieces, ensuring even cooking in the crockpot.
  2. Whisk together the creamy dairy components – sharp cheddar, velvety cream cheese, tangy sour cream, and golden melted butter – creating a luscious base for the potato dish.
  3. Incorporate finely minced aromatic onions, along with garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper into the cheese mixture, blending thoroughly.
  4. Gently fold the seasoned cheese sauce over the prepared potato cubes, ensuring every piece receives a generous coating of the rich, creamy mixture.
  5. Secure the crockpot lid and slow cook on low temperature for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the potatoes to become fork-tender and absorb the decadent flavors.
  6. Once cooking is complete, delicately stir the potatoes to redistribute the creamy sauce and prevent sticking.
  7. Finish the dish with a light dusting of vibrant paprika and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and herbaceous aroma before serving hot.

Notes

  • Swap regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a nutrient-rich, colorful twist that adds extra vitamins and a slightly sweeter flavor profile.
  • Reduce fat content by using low-fat cheese and Greek yogurt instead of full-fat cream cheese and sour cream, maintaining creamy texture while cutting calories.
  • Enhance protein by adding diced ham, cooked bacon bits, or shredded rotisserie chicken directly into the cheese mixture for a more substantial side dish.
  • Make this recipe gluten-free by ensuring all cheese and dairy products are certified gluten-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 hours (on Low) or 4 hours (on High)
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 390 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 17 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

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