Loaded Potato Casserole-5-Ingredient In Slow Cooker

Loaded Potato Casserole-5-Ingredient In Slow Cooker. This yummy dish is like a big, cheesy baked potato made super simple. Just toss frozen hash browns, cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and a pinch of salt into your slow cooker. It bubbles into cozy comfort food while you chill. Perfect for busy brunches or family dinners—fancy taste with zero fuss!

Ingredients

• 1 bag (30-32 oz) frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed a bit

• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, split into parts

• 8 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled, split into parts

• 2 cups sour cream

• 1 teaspoon salt (or less if you like)

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (nice to add)

• Nonstick spray for the slow cooker

• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives for topping (super good!)

Loaded Potato Casserole: Directions

1. Soften the hash browns a little: Put the bag in the fridge overnight or on the counter for 30-45 minutes. They should be cold but not frozen solid. This makes them cook nice and stops extra water.

2. Get the slow cooker and bacon ready: Spray inside a 5-6 quart slow cooker with nonstick spray. Cook bacon until crispy on stove or in oven. Let it drain on paper towels, crumble it, and save half for the top.

3. Mix everything up: In a big bowl, stir thawed hash browns, 2 cups cheese, half the bacon bits, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix until it’s all creamy and stuck together.

4. Put it in the cooker: Scoop the mix into the slow cooker. Spread it flat and press lightly with a spoon. Don’t squish too hard.

5. Cook slow and low: Put the lid on. Cook on LOW 4-5 hours or HIGH 2-3 hours. Potatoes get soft, edges bubble. Don’t peek too much—it slows things down.

6. Add cheesy top: When done, sprinkle last 1 cup cheese and saved bacon on top. Cover and cook on LOW 10-15 more minutes till cheese melts gooey.

7. Decorate and eat: For a fancy look, move to a warm iron pan and smooth it. Add green onions or chives. Serve hot with a big spoon for cheesy, bacon-y bites.

8. Stay warm for parties: If eating from the cooker at brunch, switch to WARM. Stir once before serving, add green bits on top for that restaurant vibe.

Serve right from the cooker or in a pretty pan. It goes great with eggs, fruit, or salad for brunch. Try with chicken or slaw for dinner. Even pairs with just greens for quick nights.