Why the Crockpot Easy Cheesy Potato Casserole Is Great Crockpot Recipe
When you’re looking for a hassle-free dish that delivers on flavor, the Crockpot Easy Cheesy Potato Casserole stands out as a top choice.
I love how simple it’s to prepare—just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work. There’s no need to hover over the stove, which is perfect for busy days.
Plus, the creamy texture and cheesy goodness always impress my family and friends. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with any meal.
Honestly, I can’t think of a better way to enjoy comfort food without the fuss. You’ll definitely want to give it a try!
Ingredients of Crockpot Easy Cheesy Potato Casserole
When it comes to whipping up a delicious and satisfying dish, the Crockpot Easy Cheesy Potato Casserole is a fantastic choice. The ingredients are pretty straightforward, which is a relief for those of us who mightn’t have a degree in culinary arts (guilty as charged).
It’s all about the classic combination of cheesy goodness, hearty potatoes, and a little bit of crunch on top. You won’t need to bring out your inner chef for this one—just gather the ingredients and let the magic happen in your crockpot.
Here’s what you need to make this cheesy delight:
- 1 (2 lb) package frozen hash brown potatoes (partially thawed)
- 2 (10 3/4 ounce) cans condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 (13 ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1/2 of a 3.5 oz can French fried onion rings (divided)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now, before you start throwing everything in the crockpot, let’s chat about the ingredients a little. The frozen hash brown potatoes are a lifesaver, saving you from the labor of peeling and chopping fresh potatoes.
But if you feel adventurous, you could use fresh potatoes—just be prepared for a bit more prep work. As for the cheddar cheese soup, it really brings that creamy, cheesy flavor that we all crave.
And if you’re like me and love a little crunch, those French fried onion rings are a must. They add a fantastic texture to the dish. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your liking; a little extra seasoning can elevate the whole experience.
How to Make Crockpot Easy Cheesy Potato Casserole
Making the Crockpot Easy Cheesy Potato Casserole is as simple as it gets, and trust me, if I can do it, so can you. First things first, grab that 1 (2 lb) package of frozen hash brown potatoes. Make sure they’re partially thawed, as this will help them cook evenly.
Once you have your hash browns ready, it’s time to bring in the good stuff. Open up those 2 (10 3/4 ounce) cans of condensed cheddar cheese soup and pour them into your crockpot. I always find it helpful to have a spatula handy to scrape out every last bit of cheesy goodness; no one likes to waste cheese, right?
Now, go ahead and add that 1 (13 ounce) can of evaporated milk, which gives the casserole that creamy texture we all dream about.
Now, sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste—don’t be shy, a little seasoning can go a long way. Finally, it’s time to add half of the 3.5 oz can of French fried onion rings. These little crunchy gems are what elevate your casserole from “meh” to “oh wow, what’s this?”
Now, give everything a good mix to combine all those flavors. Once it’s all mixed up, pour the cheesy potato mixture into a greased crockpot. Cover it up, and set it on low heat for 8-9 hours or high heat for 4 hours. Yes, that’s right; you can set it and forget it—perfect for busy days when you just want to come home to a warm, comforting meal.
As it cooks, the aroma will begin to fill your home, making you wonder if it’s time to start eating before it’s even finished. When the cooking time is up, take a look at that glorious cheesy creation.
Spoon the remaining half of those French fried onion rings on top before serving, because let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a little extra crunch? It’s a simple way to add some flair to your dish.
Crockpot Easy Cheesy Potato Casserole Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to enjoy the creamy goodness of a cheesy potato casserole while sticking to a low carb diet, I’ve got some great substitutions and variations for you.
Instead of hash browns, try using riced cauliflower or sliced zucchini for a lighter base. You can swap out the condensed cheddar cheese soup for a homemade cheese sauce made with cream cheese and shredded cheddar.
For added flavor, incorporate sautéed onions or garlic. Finally, skip the French fried onion rings and top your casserole with crushed pork rinds for a crunchy finish.
Enjoy all the comfort without the carbs!
What to Serve with Crockpot Easy Cheesy Potato Casserole
Crockpot Easy Cheesy Potato Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that can elevate your meal.
I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad; it balances the richness of the casserole perfectly.
Roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or carrots, add a delightful crunch and color to the plate.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, grilled chicken or pork chops make fantastic companions.
For a lighter touch, a side of steamed broccoli or green beans works wonders.
No matter what you choose, these sides complement the flavors and create a satisfying dining experience. Enjoy!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
While I love the creamy goodness of the Crockpot Easy Cheesy Potato Casserole, there are several ways to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor.
First, I opt for reduced-fat cheddar cheese soup and low-fat evaporated milk to cut calories. I also use fresh or frozen diced potatoes instead of hash browns for a healthier twist.
To enhance flavor, I add sautéed onions and garlic instead of relying solely on the cheese.
Finally, I sprinkle fewer French fried onions on top, or even swap them for a crispy whole-grain topping.
These simple changes keep it delicious yet lighter!