The Ultimate Slow Cooker Cheesy Funeral Potatoes: The Comfort Food Hero
When it comes to the pantheon of comfort foods, few dishes evoke the same sense of warmth and nostalgia as Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. Despite the somber name—born from their tradition as a staple at after-service luncheons—these potatoes are pure joy in a bowl. Imagine tender, diced hash browns enveloped in a velvety, savory cream sauce, loaded with melted cheddar cheese, and slow-cooked until the edges are golden and caramelized.
This is the ultimate crowd-pleasing side dish. Whether you are hosting a holiday dinner, a summer potluck, or just need a hands-off weeknight side that the kids will actually finish, this Slow Cooker Hash Brown Casserole is your secret weapon. By using a crockpot, you free up precious oven space and allow the flavors to meld together into a rich, decadent masterpiece that outshines the traditional oven-baked version.
Ingredients You’ll Need (and Why They Matter)
- 32 oz Frozen Diced Hash Browns: The foundation. Diced potatoes provide a hearty, uniform texture that holds up well during long cooking times without turning into mush.
- 2 cans (10.5 oz) Cream of Chicken Soup: Acts as the flavor base and thickener. It provides a silky, savory gravy that coats every potato.
- 16 oz Sour Cream: The secret to that signature tangy richness. It balances the saltiness of the soup and cheese.
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Shredded): Sharp cheddar is essential because its flavor doesn’t get lost. It melts into the sauce for those iconic cheesy pulls.
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted): Adds fat content that ensures the potatoes are moist and gives a “homemade” buttery finish.
- 1/2 cup Finely Diced Onion: These soften to provide a subtle aromatic sweetness.
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder & 1 tsp Onion Powder: Ensures every bite is seasoned from the inside out.
- Optional Bell Peppers: Adds a pop of color and mild sweetness, perfect for visual appeal.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
- Prep the Slow Cooker: Generously grease the insert of a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and encourage crispy edges.
- Mix the Wet Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and spices until smooth.
- Fold in the Solids: Add the frozen hash browns, diced onions, and 1.5 cups of the shredded cheese. Stir until every potato cube is thoroughly coated.
- Slow Cook: Transfer to the crockpot. Cover and cook on High for 3 hours or Low for 5–6 hours.
- The Cheesy Finish: 20 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar over the top. Cover until bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let it sit for 10 minutes uncovered to allow the creamy sauce to thicken.
Pro Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Potatoes
- Don’t Thaw: Use hash browns straight from the freezer to help thicken the casserole naturally.
- Grate Your Own: Freshly grated cheese results in a smoother, creamier melt compared to bagged shreds.
- Crunch Factor: Top with buttery crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers just before serving for extra texture.
What to Serve with Cheesy Hash Browns
This versatile potato side dish pairs perfectly with holiday proteins like honey-glazed ham, BBQ favorites like smoked brisket, or even as a savory brunch feast alongside crispy bacon and eggs.
The Ultimate Set-and-Forget Comfort Food
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Potato Recipe is a standout because it removes the stress of timing. While your main protein is roasting, your side dish is tucked away in the crockpot, staying warm and delicious. It is budget-friendly, uses pantry staples, and delivers a high-impact flavor that guests will rave about. If you want an effortless, decadent meal that defines “home cooking,” look no further.