Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, making busy days feel like a breeze. This incredibly easy recipe allows tender potatoes and savory sausage to slow cook to perfection, culminating in a dish smothered with abundant, melty cheese. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal or side that effortlessly brings warmth and joy to any table.
Author’s Note
Experience the Magic of Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes That Disappear Fast!
Few dishes evoke such a strong sense of comfort and nostalgia as a generous bowl of cheesy potatoes. Imagine that warmth, but without the kitchen chaos. That’s precisely where the magic of the slow cooker comes into play, transforming a beloved classic into a hassle-free culinary delight. For years, cheesy potatoes have been a cherished tradition at my Thanksgiving table, but limited stove space always presented a challenge.
Determined to keep the tradition alive while simplifying the process, I embarked on a journey to perfect this recipe in the slow cooker. And honestly? I’m never looking back. This method consistently yields potatoes that are incredibly tender, infused with flavor, and utterly melt-in-your-mouth delicious. They are so remarkably good that friends and family invariably ask for the recipe, and I find myself craving these comforting potatoes throughout the entire year, not just during holidays!
This recipe isn’t just about ease; it’s about maximizing flavor and texture with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the potatoes to absorb all the rich, savory notes from the sausage and broth, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to achieve with quicker methods. Plus, the hands-off approach frees you up to enjoy your time, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply seeking a comforting weeknight meal.
Why Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes Are a Game-Changer
Ditch the oven and make room on your stovetop! Using a crockpot for cheesy potatoes offers several distinct advantages:
- Effortless Preparation: Simply brown the sausage, slice the potatoes, layer, and let your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting. This hands-off approach is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining.
- Unbeatable Texture: Slow cooking allows the potatoes to become incredibly tender and creamy, absorbing all the delicious flavors from the broth and seasonings without drying out. You achieve a consistent, fork-tender texture that’s difficult to replicate in an oven.
- Deep, Developed Flavors: The long, gentle cooking time coaxes out maximum flavor from every ingredient. The sausage, onions, and spices meld beautifully with the potatoes and broth, creating a richer, more complex taste profile.
- Perfect for Potlucks and Holidays: Free up valuable oven space during holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Your crockpot can keep these cheesy potatoes warm and ready to serve for hours, making it an ideal dish for gatherings where timing is key.
- Consistent Results: Once you set your slow cooker, you can trust it to deliver perfectly cooked, cheesy potatoes every time, without constant monitoring.
Essential Ingredients for Irresistible Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes
Crafting the perfect batch of slow cooker cheesy potatoes starts with selecting quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need, along with smart tips and easy substitutions to tailor this dish to your taste:
| Ingredient | Quick Tip / Easy Swap & Why |
|---|---|
| Petite Gold Potatoes | These small, waxy potatoes hold their shape beautifully while becoming wonderfully creamy. Baby Yukon Golds are an excellent alternative. If using larger Russets, remember to peel them and slice them evenly to ensure consistent cooking and a tender texture throughout. |
| Mild Italian Sausage | The savory notes of Italian sausage add a fantastic depth of flavor. For a kick, swap in hot Italian sausage. If you prefer a milder taste or want to make it with a different protein, ground beef or ground turkey can be browned and seasoned similarly. |
| Yellow Onion | Freshly diced yellow onion provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic base. If you’re short on time or fresh onions, a teaspoon of onion powder stirred in with the other seasonings before slow-cooking offers a convenient substitute, though fresh is always best for texture. |
| Beef Broth | This liquid gold adds moisture and a rich, umami flavor. Feel free to substitute with vegetable broth or chicken broth for a lighter flavor profile or to accommodate dietary preferences. Ensure it’s reduced-sodium to control the overall saltiness. |
| Smoked Paprika | Smoked paprika delivers a beautiful color and a depth of smoky flavor that elevates the dish. For a spicier, more intense smoky kick, a pinch of chipotle powder works wonders. If you’re not a fan of smoke, you can simply omit it or use regular sweet paprika. |
| Salt & Black Pepper | Seasoning is key! Always taste your dish before serving, as the Italian sausage and cheese contribute a significant amount of salt. You might need less added salt than you think. Freshly ground black pepper adds a lovely bite. |
| Freshly Shredded Cheddar | For the smoothest, creamiest melt, always shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder melting. Mix in Monterey Jack for extra creaminess or pepper jack for a slight spicy twist that complements the potatoes beautifully. |
| Italian Seasoning & Garlic Powder | These common pantry staples provide a classic herbaceous flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sausage and potatoes. They are easy additions that make a big difference in the overall aroma and taste of the dish. |
| Fresh Parsley (Optional Garnish) | A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the rich, savory flavors of the cheesy potatoes. |
Step-by-Step Guide: How To Make Cheesy Potatoes In A Crockpot
Creating this delightful comfort food is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfectly tender and cheesy slow cooker potatoes:
- Brown the Sausage and Onion: In a large skillet, over medium-high heat, cook your mild Italian sausage until it’s beautifully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. If using, add the diced yellow onion to the skillet and sauté until softened and translucent, usually about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat from the skillet to prevent your cheesy potatoes from becoming greasy. Transfer this savory mixture to your 6-quart slow cooker.
- Prepare and Layer the Potatoes: While the sausage is cooking, thinly slice your baby gold potatoes. Aim for slices just under 1/8-inch thick to ensure even cooking and a tender texture throughout the dish. Add these precisely sliced potatoes to the slow cooker, layering them over the sausage and onion mixture.
- Season and Add Broth: Sprinkle the paprika, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder evenly over the potatoes and sausage. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning at the end, so start with about 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Pour the reduced-sodium beef broth over all the ingredients.
- Combine and Slow Cook: Gently stir all the ingredients together in the crockpot, ensuring the potatoes are coated with the seasonings and broth. Cover the Crock-Pot with its lid. Cook on the HIGH setting for 3-4 hours, or on the LOW setting for 6-7 hours. The potatoes are ready when they are completely fork-tender. Once cooking is complete, give it a final taste and adjust salt and pepper if desired.
- Melt the Cheese: For the ultimate cheesy experience, sprinkle the freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese evenly over the entire surface of the potatoes in the slow cooker. Alternatively, for individual servings, you can add a generous handful of cheese to each bowl right before serving – this is my preferred method for maximum melty goodness! Cover the slow cooker again for a few minutes, or until the cheese has melted into a gooey, irresistible layer.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the hot, cheesy potatoes into bowls. If you wish, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color and a fresh herbaceous note. Serve immediately and dig into this incredibly comforting dish!
Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes Every Time
Elevate your slow cooker cheesy potatoes from good to absolutely unforgettable with these helpful tips:
- Choose the Right Potato Variety: For the best results, I highly recommend using Petite Gold potatoes, also known as gourmet or baby Yukon Golds. These potatoes are known for their firm, waxy texture, which allows them to hold their shape beautifully during the long cooking process while still becoming incredibly soft and buttery. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they can become mushy in the slow cooker.
- Ensure Even Slicing: Consistency is key for even cooking. Slice your potatoes thinly and uniformly, ideally just under 1/8-inch thick. This ensures that every piece cooks at the same rate, resulting in a dish where every bite is perfectly tender. A mandoline slicer can be incredibly helpful for achieving perfectly even slices, but a sharp knife and a steady hand work just as well.
- Customize the Heat Level: The recipe uses smoked paprika and mild Italian sausage, providing a subtle, smoky warmth. If you enjoy a spicier kick, easily swap the mild sausage for hot Italian sausage. For even more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. If you prefer a truly mild flavor profile, you can omit the paprika entirely or use ground beef or turkey instead of sausage.
- Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: While the recipe calls for two cups of sharp Cheddar, feel free to be generous! Cheese is a star in this dish. Always shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can make the cheese melt clumpy instead of smooth and creamy. For an extra melty and flavorful blend, experiment with adding Monterey Jack or a smoky Gouda.
- Season in Layers and Taste: Although the recipe provides seasoning guidelines, always taste and adjust. The saltiness from the sausage and cheese can vary, so it’s always best to start with a moderate amount of salt and pepper, then taste the potatoes after they’ve cooked before adding more. This prevents over-salting and ensures perfect balance.
- Consider a Slow Cooker Liner: For super easy cleanup, especially with cheesy dishes, consider using a slow cooker liner. This will save you scrubbing time and make serving a breeze.
What to Serve with Your Comforting Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes are wonderfully versatile and pair well with a variety of main dishes and refreshing sides. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to complete your meal:
- Fresh and Vibrant Salads: To balance the richness of the potatoes, a crisp, fresh salad is a perfect accompaniment. I particularly love having a light and refreshing Blackberry Lime Fruit Salad with Orange Zest with all the meat and potatoes. Alternatively, depending on the season, a vibrant Winter Fruit Salad can offer a delightful contrast.
- Nutrient-Packed Grains: For a more substantial and well-balanced meal, consider pairing these cheesy potatoes with a healthy grain-based salad. This Avocado Quinoa Salad would make an amazing and hearty side, adding both texture and a boost of nutrients.
- Light and Crisp Vegetable Sides: If you’re looking to lighten things up, fresh, crisp vegetable salads are an excellent choice. A cool and refreshing Cucumber Salad or a classic Caprese Salad with Basil Dressing would provide a lovely counterpoint to the creamy potatoes.
- Roasted or Grilled Meats: These cheesy potatoes are an ideal side for almost any roasted chicken, grilled steak, pork chops, or even a holiday ham. Their comforting nature complements a wide range of main courses beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes
Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making and enjoying this delicious slow cooker dish:
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- While the slow cooker allows for hands-off cooking, the best results are achieved when the ingredients are added fresh and cooked. You can brown the sausage and dice the onion a day in advance to save time. Leftovers store well, but the fresh melt of cheese is best right after cooking.
- What kind of slow cooker is best for this recipe?
- A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe, ensuring there’s enough space for all the ingredients to cook evenly and for the cheese to melt perfectly on top. You can use a smaller 4-quart if scaling down the recipe, or a larger 8-quart if doubling it.
- Can I use frozen potatoes?
- While technically possible, using fresh potatoes is highly recommended for the best texture and flavor. Frozen potatoes can release a lot of water and might result in a mushier final product. If you must use frozen, ensure they are thawed and well-drained before adding them to the crockpot.
- How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?
- The key is choosing the right potato (Petite Golds or Baby Yukon Golds) and slicing them evenly. Overcooking can also lead to mushy potatoes, so stick to the recommended cooking times and check for doneness with a fork—they should be tender but not falling apart.
- Can I make this vegetarian?
- Absolutely! Simply omit the Italian sausage and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini, or even a plant-based sausage alternative, for added flavor and heartiness.
More Irresistible Slow Cooker Comfort Food Recipes:
Soups And Stews
Crockpot White Chicken Chili
Side Dishes
Crockpot Au Gratin Potatoes
Dinner
Crockpot Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
Dinner
Crockpot Chili
Print Recipe
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes
Equipment
- 6-quart Crock-Pot (or similar slow cooker)
Ingredients
- 1 pound mild Italian sausage
- 1 yellow onion diced, optional
- 2 pounds baby gold potatoes thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- 1/2 cup reduced-sodium beef broth
- 2 cups sharp Cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
- Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the mild Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. If using, add the chopped yellow onion and cook until softened. Drain off any excess fat from the skillet. Transfer the browned sausage and onion mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Meanwhile, thinly slice the baby gold potatoes (aim for just under 1/8-inch thick). Add these sliced potatoes to the slow cooker, layering them over the sausage mixture.
- Sprinkle the paprika, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder over the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste (I typically use about 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper). Pour in the reduced-sodium beef broth. Stir everything together gently to ensure all ingredients are well combined and seasoned. Cover the Crock-Pot.
- Cook on the HIGH setting for 3–4 hours, or on the LOW setting for 6–7 hours, or until the potatoes are completely fork-tender. Once cooked, taste the potatoes and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
- Add the freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese in an even layer over the cooked potatoes. For the best melty results, you can also add cheese to individual serving plates. Cover the slow cooker again for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a luscious, gooey topping. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Calories: 815kcal |
Carbohydrates: 45g |
Protein: 36g |
Fat: 55g |
Saturated Fat: 25g |
Cholesterol: 146mg |
Sodium: 1250mg |
Potassium: 1428mg |
Fiber: 6g |
Sugar: 4g |
Vitamin A: 599IU |
Vitamin C: 51mg |
Calcium: 473mg |
Iron: 4mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. It can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
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Conclusion
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes truly offer the best of both worlds: the heartwarming comfort of a classic dish combined with the unbeatable convenience of slow cooking. This recipe promises not just a meal, but an experience – one that simplifies your cooking routine while delivering rich, savory flavors and a wonderfully creamy texture. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, these cheesy potatoes are destined to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and prepare to indulge in a dish that consistently earns rave reviews and happy faces around the table.