Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

The ingredients used in a Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes recipe are a combination of staple kitchen items and specialty foods that come together to create a deliciously comforting dish.

Main ingredients include:

• 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled or non-peeled as per preference
• 1/2 cup of butter, softened for the best results
• 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of salt to balance flavors
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper for added depth
• 1/4 teaspoon of paprika, an optional ingredient for its mild smokiness
• 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese, a key element in creating the cheesy aspect
• 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for added creaminess
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for its rich, nutty flavor
• 1/4 cup of chopped green onions or chives for garnish and freshness
• Beef broth or chicken broth to create a savory sauce in the slow cooker

It’s worth noting that some people prefer using russet potatoes for their fluffy interiors, while others might choose waxy potatoes like red bliss for their firmer texture and sweeter taste.

The use of a variety of cheeses is not just for flavor; it also contributes to the dish’s texture. The cheddar adds a sharpness, mozzarella brings creaminess, and Parmesan provides a nutty undertone.

When selecting all-purpose flour, consider using a high-quality brand to ensure the best results in terms of taste and texture.

45 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

The ingredients list for this delectable Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes recipe calls for 45 large potatoes, which have been peeled and thinly sliced to perfection.

This significant quantity of potatoes ensures that the dish will be generously filled with the rich flavors and textures that make it so beloved by those who try it.

The fact that they have been peeled eliminates any bitterness or harshness associated with the potato skins, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through in every bite.

Thinly slicing these potatoes is crucial as it allows for even cooking throughout the dish and helps create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that are fundamental to this recipe’s success.

The sliced potatoes will serve as the base upon which the rich and creamy cheese sauce is layered, creating a satisfying contrast of warm, velvety comfort against crunchy, perfectly cooked potato.

Optional Toppings:

The main ingredients required for this recipe are:

• 4-5 medium-sized potatoes
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of milk or half-and-half
• 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, if desired

The optional toppings that can be added to this recipe include:

• Crispy bacon bits or diced cooked bacon
• Chopped scallions or chives
• Diced ham or cooked sausage
• Melted mozzarella cheese
• Roasted garlic, minced or mashed
• Cooked and crumbled cooked chicken or diced cooked steak

Please note that these optional toppings can be added in various combinations to suit individual tastes.

Sliced onions or shallots for added flavor

To take your Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes to the next level, consider adding sliced onions or shallots for an added depth of flavor. These aromatic ingredients have a way of elevating any dish, and in this case, they’ll complement the creamy cheese and tender potatoes perfectly.

Here are some key points about using sliced onions or shallots:

• Sliced onions add a sweet and savory flavor profile that pairs well with the richness of the cheese and potatoes.

• Shallots, on the other hand, have a milder flavor than onions and are often preferred for their subtle sweetness. They also caramelize nicely when cooked, adding a deep and nutty flavor to the dish.

• Both onions and shallots can be sautéed before being added to the slow cooker to bring out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

To incorporate sliced onions or shallots into your Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes recipe:

1. Thinly slice one large onion or two medium-sized shallots, depending on your preference for intensity of flavor.

2. Heat a tablespoon or two of oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the sliced onions or shallots until they’re translucent and lightly caramelized.

3. Add the cooked onions or shallots to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients, including diced potatoes, grated cheese, and any desired seasonings or spices.

By adding sliced onions or shallots to your Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes recipe, you’ll be creating a dish that’s both flavorful and aromatic. The combination of tender potatoes, creamy cheese, and sweet caramelized onions is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters!

Shredded cheddar cheese for extra creaminess

When it comes to adding an extra layer of creaminess to our slow cooker cheesy potatoes recipe, shredded cheddar cheese is a fantastic ingredient to turn to. Cheddar cheese, in general, is known for its rich and tangy flavor, but when shredded, it becomes even more versatile and easy to incorporate into the dish.

Shredded cheddar cheese has a few key properties that make it an ideal choice for our recipe. Firstly, its fine texture allows it to melt easily and quickly, ensuring that our potatoes are coated in a smooth and creamy sauce throughout the cooking process. This is particularly important when cooking with low heat, as the slower pace of melting can sometimes result in a less-than-desirable texture.

Another benefit of using shredded cheddar cheese is its ability to add depth and complexity to the dish. As it melts, the cheese releases a rich, savory flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes perfectly. This balance of flavors is essential for creating a truly satisfying slow cooker cheesy potatoes recipe that will leave even the pickiest eaters begging for more.

In addition to its flavor and texture benefits, shredded cheddar cheese also offers a high degree of flexibility in terms of usage. It can be sprinkled over the top of the potatoes before cooking, allowing it to melt and bubble into a golden-brown crust, or mixed directly into the potato mixture for a more evenly distributed cheesy goodness.

From a nutritional perspective, shredded cheddar cheese is also a relatively good choice for those looking to balance out the richness of their slow cooker cheesy potatoes recipe. Cheddar cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, making it an excellent addition to a meal that’s designed to be hearty and filling but not excessively heavy.

Overall, shredded cheddar cheese is an excellent ingredient to include in our slow cooker cheesy potatoes recipe if we want to add extra creaminess, depth of flavor, and flexibility. Its ease of use, adaptability, and nutritional benefits make it the perfect addition to a dish that’s already sure to become a family favorite.

Cooking Instructions

Slow Cooking Method:

The slow cooker method of cooking is a great way to prepare a delicious and cheesy potato dish, perfect for a family meal or a special occasion. Here’s how to make the best out of your slow cooker:

**Ingredients Needed:**

• 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 teaspoon dried onion powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Rinse the sliced potatoes in a colander under cold running water. This step helps remove excess starch and results in a better texture.

2. In a large bowl, combine the rinsed potato slices, grated cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, butter, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the potatoes are evenly coated with the cheese mixture.

3. Transfer the potato- cheese mixture to the slow cooker. Make sure the potatoes are in a single layer and not overlapping each other. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your slow cooker.

4. Cook the potatoes on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Check on the potatoes after 4 hours and adjust cooking time as needed.

5. When the potatoes are cooked through, they should be tender and slightly browned around the edges. If you prefer them to be more crispy, increase the heat to high for an additional hour or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

**Tips and Variations:**

• To add extra flavor, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top of the potatoes before serving.

• For a spicy twist, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.

• To make the dish more substantial, serve it with some cooked bacon or sausage on top.

Serve the cheesy potatoes hot and enjoy!

Cooking instructions for the Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes recipe are a crucial part of bringing this delicious dish to life.

The first step involves peeling and cubing 2-3 large potatoes, depending on their size. It is essential to make sure they are evenly sized so that they cook at the same rate.

Next, you will need to chop up 1/4 cup of onion and sauté it in a little bit of oil until it’s softened. This step adds a depth of flavor to the dish and helps to create a rich and creamy sauce later on.

After that, add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute or two until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as this can give your potatoes a bitter taste.

Now it’s time to add in the cubed potatoes, some grated cheddar cheese (about 1/2 cup), and a sprinkle of paprika. Mix everything together well so that the potatoes are fully coated with the cheese and spices.

Add this potato mixture to your slow cooker and pour over 1 cup of chicken broth or cream. Stir until everything is well combined, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

When the potatoes are tender, it’s time to add in an extra 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and some chopped fresh parsley. Let this sit for a few minutes until the cheese has melted and you can serve your Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes hot and bubbly.

This dish is perfect for a busy day when you don’t have much time to cook. Just toss all the ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a delicious meal that’s ready to be devoured.

The result of following these cooking instructions will be a mouthwatering, cheesy potato casserole with a rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked potatoes.

Layer sliced potatoes in the slow cooker, slightly overlapping each layer.

To create a mouth-watering and comforting dish using the slow cooker, begin by preparing a batch of sliced potatoes.

Select high-quality potatoes that are firm and free from blemishes or soft spots. The recommended type for this recipe is Russet or Idaho, as they have a higher starch content which helps to yield a fluffy interior and crispy exterior when cooked.

Wash the selected potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris, then dry them with a clean towel to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cooking process. Next, peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to create uniform slices that are approximately 1/4 inch thick.

Once you have peeled and sliced all the necessary potatoes, place a layer of them at the bottom of your slow cooker. Overlap these slices slightly as they cook more evenly this way, ensuring that each piece reaches its desired level of doneness simultaneously.

For optimal results in terms of texture and flavor, use a total of three layers for this recipe – one at the beginning, one in the middle, and a final top layer. Each successive layer should be slightly overlapped to allow even heating throughout the dish and prevent hot spots or undercooked areas.

Following the initial layering step, sprinkle grated cheese over the potatoes, taking care not to clog any small spaces with the cheese. The ideal choice of cheese for this recipe is a combination of cheddar and mozzarella, but other options such as Monterey Jack or Parmesan can also be used depending on your personal taste preferences.

Proceed with the additional layers in the same manner, alternating between sliced potatoes and grated cheese until you reach the top layer. Be mindful not to overfill the slow cooker, allowing enough space for heat circulation around each piece of food.

Complete the final topping by sprinkling an additional layer of grated cheese evenly over the topmost potato layer. This will help seal in moisture and flavors during cooking, as well as add a crispy golden-brown crust to your dish once it’s done.

After following these instructions to assemble the slow cooker cheesy potatoes, cover the appliance with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for approximately six to eight hours or high heat for three to four. The exact cooking time will depend on individual oven settings and potato sizes, so monitor your dish periodically to avoid overcooking.

Once the slow cooker has completed its cooking cycle, carefully lift out the potatoes using a spatula or serving spoon to check their level of doneness. A perfectly cooked layer should be slightly tender in the center while retaining some firmness on the outside – similar to mashed potatoes but without being overly mushy.

Proceed with serving your slow cooker cheesy potatoes hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired for added visual appeal and fragrance. Enjoy this comforting side dish as a perfect accompaniment to any meal or use it as a standalone snack to satisfy your cravings!

Add 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese on top of each potato layer for extra flavor and creaminess.

To make this mouthwatering recipe, you’ll need to start with some essential ingredients, including 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced, as well as 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese per potato layer.

Begin by preheating your slow cooker to high heat, which will ensure that the dish cooks evenly throughout. While waiting for it to heat up, take a moment to season the sliced potatoes with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.

Next, layer the potatoes in the slow cooker by starting with a thin base of sliced potatoes, followed by adding 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese on top of each potato layer for extra flavor and creaminess.

Continue alternating layers of potatoes and cheese until you reach the top of the slow cooker. Be sure to end with a layer of cheese on top to get that perfect golden-brown crust.

Now, cover the slow cooker and let it do its magic for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy the ooohs and aaahs from your family and friends as they indulge in this creamy, cheesy delight!

Optional: If you want to give the dish an extra boost of flavor, consider adding some chopped onions or garlic to the layers for added depth and richness.

This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort but maximum payoff in terms of taste and convenience!

Cover the slow cooker with a lid to allow the flavors to meld together and the potatoes to cook evenly.

To get the best results from your slow cooker cheesy potatoes recipe, it’s essential to cover the slow cooker with a lid.

This may seem counterintuitive at first, as you might think that leaving the slow cooker uncovered would allow the flavors to meld together and cook evenly.

However, covering the slow cooker actually helps to:

• Promote even cooking: By trapping moisture inside the slow cooker, you can ensure that your potatoes cook consistently throughout.

• Enhance flavor: The lid helps to contain the flavors of the dish, allowing them to meld together and intensify as they cook.

When using a slow cooker, it’s also crucial to follow a few additional guidelines to ensure that your potatoes turn out perfectly cooked:

1. Choose the right type of potatoes: Thinly slice or chop high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho for the best results.

2. Cook on low heat: Slow cookers are designed to cook food at a low temperature over an extended period. Cooking on low heat will help your potatoes cook evenly and prevent them from becoming mushy.

By following these guidelines and covering your slow cooker with a lid, you can create the perfect cheesy potatoes that are both delicious and visually appealing.

To make this delicious Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Recipe, you will need to gather the following ingredients:

• Main Ingredients:
  • 4-5 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (you can use other types of cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack)
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim milk work well)

Optional Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or scallions (optional)

Now, let’s move on to the cooking instructions:

1. Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, grated cheese, milk, butter (if using), paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.

2. Step 2: Assemble the Slow Cooker

Pour half of the potato and cheese mixture into the slow cooker. Arrange a layer of potatoes on the bottom, followed by some grated cheese. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.

3. Step 3: Cook the Potatoes in the Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. This will allow the potatoes to become tender and the cheese to melt and bubble.

4. Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the cooking time is up, remove the lid and let the potatoes rest for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish with chopped chives or scallions (if using) and serve hot.

Tips and Variations

Adding Extra Flavors:

The world of slow cooker cheesy potatoes is vast and exciting, with countless opportunities to experiment and add your own unique flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, adding extra flavors can elevate this comfort food classic to new heights.

Here are some tips and variations to get you started:

• Add different types of cheese: Mix and match cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, or feta for a unique flavor profile. You can also try using goat cheese or blue cheese for a tangy twist.

• Spice it up with herbs and spices: Add some dried or fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano to give your cheesy potatoes a Mediterranean flair. Alternatively, add some cumin or chili powder for a spicy kick.

• Bacon makes everything better: Crush some crispy bacon bits into the potato mixture for a smoky, savory flavor.

• Mix in some diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms: Add some sautéed vegetables to give your cheesy potatoes an extra layer of flavor and texture.

• Try different types of potatoes: Use Yukon golds, red bliss, or sweet potatoes for a sweeter, nuttier flavor. You can also try using diced rutabaga or parsnip for added depth.

Some popular variations on the classic slow cooker cheesy potato recipe include:

1. Southwestern Cheesy Potatoes: Add some diced jalapeños, cumin, and chili powder to give your potatoes a spicy Southwestern twist.

2. Mediterranean Cheesy Potatoes: Mix in some feta cheese, kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a salty, savory flavor.

3. Italian-Style Cheesy Potatoes: Add some diced pancetta or prosciutto, parsley, and parmesan cheese for a rich, Italian-inspired flavor.

No matter which variation you choose, the key to success is to experiment and have fun! Don’t be afraid to try new combinations of flavors and ingredients to create your own unique slow cooker cheesy potatoes recipe.

Cooking with a slow cooker allows for flexibility in terms of ingredients and portion control, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to be customized to suit individual tastes and dietary needs.

Vegetarian Variations

• To add extra flavor, sauté a combination of onions, garlic, and mushrooms before adding the potatoes.

• Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a meat-free option.

A variety of cheeses can be used, but keep in mind that using stronger cheeses will intensify the flavor.

Cheesy Combinations

1. For a smoky flavor, add shredded cheddar and diced jalapenos to the potatoes.

2. For an Italian twist, mix mozzarella and parmesan cheese into the potato mixture.

The key is to balance the types of cheese and other ingredients according to your taste preferences.

Add-ins and Mix-Ins

• Chopped bacon adds a smoky flavor, while diced ham or cooked chicken add protein.

• Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.

This recipe’s flexibility makes it an excellent candidate for leftovers and meal prep.

Add diced cooked bacon or ham for added smokiness.

Add some crunch and smoky flavor to your slow cooker cheesy potatoes by incorporating diced cooked bacon or ham into the recipe.

Not only does this add a rich, savory element, but it also provides a satisfying textural contrast to the creamy cheese and tender potatoes.

To incorporate these ingredients, start by cooking diced bacon or ham in a pan until crispy, then chop it into smaller pieces or crumbles.

Add the cooked bacon or ham to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients, such as diced potatoes, cheese, and any desired seasonings or herbs.

As the dish cooks, the flavors will meld together, and the bacon or ham will infuse a deep, smoky flavor into the cheesy potatoes.

Some popular variations on this recipe include using different types of cheese, such as **Cheddar**, **Mozzarella**, or Goat Cheese,

or adding other ingredients like diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add extra flavor and texture.

Additionally, you can use different types of potatoes, such as Yukon gold or sweet potatoes, to change up the flavor and texture of the dish.

No matter what variations you choose, be sure to cook the potatoes until they’re tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, for a unique flavor profile.

To give this slow cooker cheesy potatoes recipe an extra boost of flavor, consider experimenting with different types of cheese. For a creamy and rich take on this classic dish, try using mozzarella cheese in place of cheddar or a combination of the two.

Mozzarella has a naturally sweet flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of potatoes and herbs. It also melts beautifully and adds a velvety texture to the finished dish. When substituting mozzarella for other cheeses, keep in mind that it may melt slightly faster due to its higher moisture content.

Another great option is parmesan cheese, which brings a salty, nutty flavor to this slow cooker recipe. Sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan over the potatoes during the last hour of cooking to create an amazing textural contrast and depth of flavor.

You can also try blending different types of cheese to achieve a unique flavor profile. A combination of mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta creates a deliciously creamy and cheesy sauce that coats the potatoes beautifully. Simply mix the cheeses together with some olive oil and herbs before adding them to the slow cooker.

For a more decadent take on this recipe, consider using high-end cheese varieties like truffle gouda or mascarpone. These rich and indulgent cheeses will add an incredible level of sophistication and flavor to your slow cooker cheesy potatoes. Be sure to use them sparingly, as their strong flavors can overpower the dish.

Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of milk or cream to complement the cheese. Adding a splash of half-and-half or heavy cream will enhance the creamy texture and flavor of your slow cooker cheesy potatoes. You can also try using Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier twist on this classic recipe.

Cheese lovers rejoice! The slow cooker cheesy potatoes recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to indulge in a rich, creamy, and comforting side dish.

Here are some valuable tips and variations to take your slow cooker cheesy potatoes to the next level:

Tips:

• Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly so they cook evenly throughout. A mandoline or sharp knife will make quick work of this task.

• Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for an unbeatable flavor combination. The sharpness of the cheddar pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the mozzarella.

• Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker, as this can lead to potatoes that are steamed rather than tenderized. Cook them in batches if necessary, and be patient!

Variations:

• Spicy Cheesy Potatoes: Add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to give your dish a spicy kick.

• Garlic Lover’s Delight: Mix in some minced garlic with the cheese for an extra depth of flavor.

• Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onions: Substitute smoked gouda for regular cheddar and caramelize some onions to add a sweet, savory element to your dish.

With these tips and variations, you’ll be well on your way to creating the ultimate slow cooker cheesy potatoes recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!