Creamy, comforting, and impossibly easy, these Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes are the kind of side dish everyone goes back for seconds (and thirds). Tender potatoes cook low and slow in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, creating a dish that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, family dinners, or anytime you need hands-off comfort food.
This recipe is a true classic: minimal prep, simple ingredients, and big, nostalgic flavor. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work while you focus on the rest of the meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Optional toppings
- Chopped green onions
- Crispy turkey bacon
- Extra shredded cheese
Instructions
1. Prepare the slow cooker
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and ensures the potatoes lift out easily when serving.
2. Prep the potatoes
Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes, about ¾ to 1 inch each. Uniform pieces are key so everything cooks evenly and becomes perfectly tender.
3. Add potatoes to the slow cooker
Place the diced potatoes into the slow cooker and spread them into an even layer along the bottom.
4. Make the creamy sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
- Cream of chicken (or mushroom) soup
- Sour cream
- Melted butter (slightly cooled)
- Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder
Stir well until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and fully combined.
5. Coat the potatoes
Pour the sauce evenly over the potatoes. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently stir until all potato pieces are fully coated in the creamy mixture.
6. Add the cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes. Do not stir at this stage — this allows the cheese to melt slowly and create a rich, cheesy layer.
7. Cook
Cover with the lid and cook:
- LOW: 4–5 hours
- HIGH: 2–3 hours
Avoid lifting the lid too often, as releasing heat can slow the cooking process.
8. Stir halfway (optional but helpful)
About halfway through cooking, quickly remove the lid and gently stir from the bottom up. This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking. Replace the lid promptly.
9. Check for doneness
The potatoes are ready when:
- A fork slides easily into the potatoes
- The sauce is thick, bubbly, and creamy
10. Final stir and rest
Turn off the slow cooker and gently stir to fully incorporate the melted cheese. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving — this allows the sauce to thicken perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheesy potatoes hot as a side dish with:
- Roast chicken or turkey
- Meatloaf or baked chicken
- Grilled vegetables
- Holiday mains like Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner
Finish with chopped green onions, crispy turkey bacon, or an extra sprinkle of cheese for a beautiful presentation.
