Why the Crockpot Loaded Hash Browns Is Great Crockpot Recipe
Crockpot Loaded Hash Browns are a fantastic choice for any meal, and I can tell you why.
First off, they’re incredibly easy to prepare. Just toss everything into the crockpot, and let it do the work while you go about your day.
The flavors meld beautifully, creating a creamy, savory dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Plus, you can customize them to suit your taste—add extra cheese or spice it up with jalapeños.
It’s a crowd-pleaser, too, making it ideal for gatherings. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Ingredients of Crockpot Loaded Hash Browns
When it comes to whipping up a comforting and satisfying dish, the ingredients for Crockpot Loaded Hash Browns are key. You’ll want to gather a few simple items that pack a punch in flavor and texture.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to mix and match based on what you have in your pantry or your personal preferences. So, if you’re ready to jump in and make a meal that has everyone asking for seconds, here’s what you’ll need.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb bulk pork sausage
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (about 1 medium onion)
- 5 cups frozen diced hash brown potatoes
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese with jalapeño pepper (about 4 ounces)
- 1 small red sweet pepper, chopped
- 1 (4 ounce) can sliced mushrooms, drained
- 1 (10 3/4 ounce) can condensed Fiesta nacho cheese soup
- 1/4 cup water
- Additional shredded Monterey Jack cheese with jalapeño pepper for topping
- Thinly sliced fresh jalapeño for garnish
- Salsa and/or dairy sour cream for serving (optional)
Now, let’s talk about those ingredients a bit more. The beauty of this dish is how you can personalize it. Don’t have pork sausage? Ground turkey or even plant-based sausage could work just fine.
And if you’re not a fan of spicy, simply swap out the jalapeño cheese for a milder version or leave out the fresh jalapeños altogether. The frozen hash browns are a lifesaver, making prep a breeze, and you can play around with the veggies. Toss in some spinach, or maybe some corn if that’s your jam.
The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes cooking fun, right? Just imagine the delicious smells wafting through your home as it slowly cooks. You might even find yourself sneaking spoonfuls before it’s done—no judgment here; we’ve all been there!
How to Make Crockpot Loaded Hash Browns
Making Crockpot Loaded Hash Browns is a delightful adventure that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, and the best part? It’s super easy. Start by grabbing 1 pound of bulk pork sausage and 1/2 cup of chopped onion. In a large skillet, cook the sausage and onion over medium heat until the sausage is browned and the onion is tender. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain off that pesky fat; we want to keep things flavorful but not greasy.
Now, let’s talk about the slow cooker. If you have a plastic slow cooker liner, this is a great time to use it. It makes cleanup a breeze, and who doesn’t love that?
Once the skillet is ready, transfer the sausage and onion mixture into your prepared 3-1/2 or 4-quart slow cooker. Now it’s time to add the fun stuff. Toss in 5 cups of frozen diced hash brown potatoes, 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese with jalapeño pepper (which gives it that spicy kick), a small chopped red sweet pepper, and a can of drained sliced mushrooms. Can you picture it? A colorful mixture that will make your taste buds tingle.
In a separate bowl, mix together 1 can of condensed Fiesta nacho cheese soup and 1/4 cup of water. Pour this cheesy goodness over your hash brown mixture and give everything a gentle stir to combine it all. It’s like a warm hug in a pot.
Now, cover your slow cooker and choose your cooking setting. If you’re in a hurry, go for the high setting and let it cook for about 4 to 4-1/2 hours. Otherwise, if you can wait, the low setting for 8 to 9 hours is the way to go. Trust me, the longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld and the better it tastes.
Just before serving, give it a good stir to mix everything up. If you want to take it up a notch, feel free to sprinkle some additional shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top, and garnish with thinly sliced fresh jalapeños. And let’s not forget the salsa and sour cream on the side—because who doesn’t love a little extra flavor?
Now, dig in, and try not to eat it all in one sitting. I mean, it’s tempting, but we want to savor every bite, right?
Crockpot Loaded Hash Browns Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to enjoy delicious Loaded Hash Browns while sticking to a low-carb diet, I’ve got some great substitutions and variations for you.
Instead of traditional hash browns, try using riced cauliflower or shredded zucchini for a lower-carb base. Swap out the condensed Fiesta nacho cheese soup for a homemade cheese sauce made with cream cheese and shredded cheese.
You can also use turkey sausage or ground beef for a leaner option. Add in some spinach or kale for extra nutrients, and don’t forget to top with fresh jalapeños and avocado for a creamy finish.
Enjoy your guilt-free dish!
What to Serve with Crockpot Loaded Hash Browns
While enjoying your Crockpot Loaded Hash Browns, you might wonder what to pair them with for a complete meal.
I love serving these hash browns alongside some crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage for a hearty touch. A fresh fruit salad adds a revitalizing contrast, balancing out the richness.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works well too.
Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or a side of salsa for extra flavor! With these pairings, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
To enjoy your Crockpot Loaded Hash Browns without the extra calories, I recommend making a few simple adjustments.
First, swap the bulk pork sausage for turkey or chicken sausage to cut down on fat. You can also use a low-fat cheese or reduce the amount of cheese you add.
Instead of the Fiesta nacho cheese soup, try a homemade cheese sauce made with low-fat milk for a healthier option.
Finally, consider adding more veggies like spinach or zucchini to bulk up the dish without adding many calories.
These changes will help you savor the flavor while keeping calories in check!