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Hash Brown Casserole Crockpot - Cozy, Creamy, and Effortless

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen hash browns (shredded or diced), thawed
  • 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon onion powder)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle warmth)
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, for looser texture)
  • Cooking spray or a slow cooker liner
  • Optional add-ins: 1 cup cooked bacon bits or ham, 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, 1/2 cup diced bell pepper, 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • Optional topping: 1–1.5 cups crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers mixed with 2 tablespoons melted butter

Method
 

  1. Prep the slow cooker: Lightly coat the crock with cooking spray or use a liner. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
  2. Thaw and drain the potatoes: If your hash browns are frozen, thaw them and pat dry. Too much moisture can make the casserole watery.
  3. Mix the sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Whisk until smooth.
  4. Add the potatoes and cheese: Fold in the hash browns, onion, and 1.5 cups of the cheddar. If you prefer a creamier, looser casserole, stir in up to 1/2 cup broth.
  5. Layer in the crockpot: Spread the mixture evenly in the slow cooker. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  6. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or on High for 2.5–3 hours, until hot and bubbly around the edges and the center reaches at least 165°F.
  7. Add the topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar over the top in the last 15 minutes. For a crunchy topping, mix crushed cornflakes or crackers with melted butter and scatter over the cheese, then cover to melt and crisp slightly.
  8. Rest and serve: Turn to Warm and let sit for 10–15 minutes so it sets up a bit. Spoon and serve hot.