Cheesy Crockpot Hashbrown Casserole

This crockpot hashbrown casserole combines comfort and convenience, making it the ultimate cheesy addition to your dining table. 

Love crockpot recipes? Try my popular Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe next.

When you're gearing up for a big holiday dinner or planning a cozy family gathering, this casserole has your back. It’s a breeze to throw together the ingredients in your slow cooker, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your casserole becomes bubbly and delicious without a fuss.

This crockpot hashbrown casserole is one of our favorite recipes! We love the satisfying blend of tender shredded potatoes, gooey cheese, and a creamy sauce coming together with a golden-brown crust that makes everyone at the table reach for seconds.

We love it paired with a roast, a festive turkey, or standing proudly next to a ham, the crockpot hashbrown casserole holds its own. It’s the perfect side dish to keep everyone at your event feeling full and happy.

What I really love is the beauty of preparing it in a crockpot because it saves oven space and is hands off. You can let it cook slowly to perfection, leaving you to mingle with your guests or put the finishing touches on other dishes. 

With each savory forkful, you'll see why the cheesy goodness of this casserole is a must-have for your next gathering and many more to come.

​Why this recipe works

• Made in the crockpot for hands off cooking
• Simple ingredients make it hearty and comforting for the whole family
• Great dish to serve as a breakfast casserole or a side dish for dinner

Ingredients

Scroll to the bottom of this post for a precise amounts and printable recipe card.

• Frozen, shredded hash brown potatoes - we didn't thaw, just threw them in frozen. We used Ore Ida brand, but generic works just as well.
• Sour cream - gives a tangy creaminess.
• Sharp cheddar cheese - you can use any kind of cheese, just be sure it's shredded.
• Onion powder - makes it quick, but you can use freshly chopped onion if you like. Just be sure to chop them finely. About ¼ cup will do.
• Garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Optional garnishes - sliced green onions, chopped parsley

Instructions

Before you begin, you'll want to prep your crock pot for non-stick success:

• Slow Cooker Liner – Place it inside to make cleanup a breeze.
• Non-stick Spray – A generous spritz on the liner prevents any sticking.

STEP ONE: In a large bowl, mix entire package of frozen hash browns with 24 ounces sour cream, 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Combine well.

STEP TWO: Add hash brown mixture to the well sprayed crockpot insert, smoothing the top.

STEP THREE: Cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for about 6 hours. 

STEP FOUR: Turn crockpot to low or turn it off. Add remaining cheese to the top of the casserole, cover with lid until the cheese melts.

Serving the Casserole

Once the crockpot hashbrown casserole is cooked through and the cheese is beautifully melted on top, it's time to serve:

• Ensure the casserole has rested for a few minutes after cooking.
• Scoop it out, garnish with green onions, and serve warm for that ultimate comfort food experience.

Variations

• Ground Beef: A classic choice for a heartier dish. Simply brown the beef and layer it in before the hash browns.
• Sausage: Flavorful and rich, mix in cooked, crumbled sausage for a different twist on your casserole.
• Try Monterey Jack cheese in combination with cheddar to add a touch of spice. 
• Add about half a cup of finely chopped red bell peppers and/or green bell peppers.

Storage and Reheating

Once you've savored your delicious crockpot hashbrown casserole, proper storage and reheating will ensure you enjoy every last bite. Managing leftovers is easy with little prep work, and you can maintain that delightful taste and texture with a few simple steps.

• Allow to Cool: Before storing, let your leftover casserole cool to room temperature.
• Airtight Container: Transfer the casserole to an airtight container. This helps preserve flavor and prevent drying out.
• Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator if you'll be eating the leftovers within a few days.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven reheating: For best results, reheat your casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This method helps maintain the casserole's texture and ensures even heating.
  • Preheat your oven.
  • Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  • Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until heated thoroughly.
• Crockpot reheating: you can use the slow cooker to reheat leftovers. Spray the insert well, add the leftover casserole, and heat on low until hot.

Tips

• Use a tried and true slow cooker to ensure success. I used a 6 quart oval slow cooker to make the recipe, and mine runs on the hot side. Consider how yours works and make any needed adjustments. 
• You can reduce the cheddar cheese and/or sour cream and opt for cream cheese in its place. 
• Add a crunchy topping like crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter for texture contrast.

FAQ

More crockpot recipes to try

• Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
• Creamy Ranch Chicken
• Crockpot Baked Ziti
• Cream Cheese White Chicken Chili

Thank you for checking out this Cheesy Crockpot Hashbrown Casserole recipe. I'm grateful to have readers like you! If you enjoyed the recipe, I'd love a star rating and any feedback you may have. Please come back for more recipes made with maximum flavor and minimal effort!