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Crockpot Hash Brown Casserole - Cozy, Cheesy, and Easy

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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 (30–32 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat recommended)
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided; sharp cheddar works well)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional mix-ins: 1–2 cups cooked bacon or sausage, diced ham, sautéed bell peppers, or baby spinach
  • Optional topping: 1–1.5 cups crushed buttery crackers or cornflakes mixed with 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • Nonstick spray or a slow cooker liner

Method
 

  1. Prep the slow cooker. Lightly coat the insert with nonstick spray or use a liner. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  2. Thaw the hash browns. Let them sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, or thaw in the fridge overnight. Gently break up any clumps so they mix evenly.
  3. Mix the sauce. In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, condensed soup, melted butter, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Add the potatoes and onion. Fold in the thawed hash browns, diced onion, and 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Load the crockpot. Spread the mixture evenly in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar over the top.
  6. Cook low and slow. Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or on High for 2–3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the edges are bubbly. Avoid opening the lid too often.
  7. Add a crunchy topping (optional). If you want a crisp finish, mix crushed crackers or cornflakes with 2 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking, then cook uncovered if your model allows. If not, just add and recover; it’ll still add texture.
  8. Rest and serve. Turn off the heat and let the casserole sit for 10 minutes. This helps it set. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed, then serve warm.