If you're looking for a comforting, hearty dish that practically cooks itself, this Hearty Slow Cooked Cheesy Potatoes recipe is your answer. Imagine creamy, cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes — that's what you'll get with minimal effort, thanks to your trusty slow cooker.
Russet potatoes are the star of the dish, providing a hearty base that soaks up all the creamy, cheesy goodness. Cheddar cheese adds that essential gooey, savory flavor we all love. Sour cream brings a tangy creaminess that balances the richness. The cream of chicken soup ties everything together with its smooth texture and savory notes. Unsalted butter is melted and mixed in to enhance the creamy texture and add a touch of luxury. Onion and garlic lend a background depth of flavor that complements the cheese. Finally, a bit of salt and black pepper enhances all these flavors without overpowering them.
These cheesy potatoes are a fantastic side dish for a variety of main courses. Try serving them alongside a juicy roast chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty meatloaf. They also pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Start by lightly greasing the inside of your slow cooker with a bit of butter or cooking spray; this ensures nothing sticks and makes cleanup easier. In a large bowl, toss together the diced russet potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use a big spoon or your hands — whatever feels right — to mix everything thoroughly until the potatoes are well-coated with the creamy mixture.
Once everything’s mixed to perfection, transfer it all into your prepared slow cooker. Set it on low, cover, and let it do its thing for 6 to 7 hours. You might want to give it a stir once or twice during cooking, just to make sure everything cooks evenly and none of that cheesy goodness sticks to the sides.
After patiently waiting, you’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are tender and the smell of cheesy, garlicky deliciousness fills your kitchen. Serve them up hot, and watch them disappear!