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Crockpot Cheesy Hashbrown Side Dish - Cozy, Crowd-Pleasing Comfort

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen shredded hashbrowns (no need to thaw)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or medium; divided)
  • 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup diced onion (yellow or sweet; optional but recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or milk (for creaminess and spreadability)
  • Optional topping: 1–1.5 cups crushed buttery crackers or cornflakes mixed with 2–3 tablespoons melted butter
  • Nonstick spray (for the crockpot insert)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the crockpot: Spray the insert with nonstick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  2. Mix the creamy base: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and broth (or milk) until smooth.
  3. Add the cheese and onions: Stir in 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar and the diced onion until evenly combined.
  4. Fold in the hashbrowns: Add the frozen hashbrowns and gently fold until everything is coated. Don’t overmix or the potatoes can break down.
  5. Load the crockpot: Transfer the mixture to the crockpot and spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar on top.
  6. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or on High for 2–3 hours, until hot throughout and the edges are bubbly. Stir once about halfway through if you like a more even texture.
  7. Add a crunchy topping (optional): If using crackers or cornflakes, mix with melted butter and sprinkle over the top during the last 30 minutes of cooking so it warms and crisps slightly.
  8. Finish and serve: Taste and adjust salt if needed. Let it sit uncovered for 5–10 minutes to set, then scoop and serve warm.