Are you ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a mouthwatering feast that'll have everyone begging for seconds? This Slow Cooker Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with crispy potato perfection. Imagine walking into your kitchen after a long day to be greeted by the irresistible aroma of a bubbling, golden-brown casserole that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds frozen hash browns
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker by lightly greasing the interior with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped onion. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season the mixture with salt and black pepper, stirring to ensure the seasoning is well incorporated.
- Transfer the entire hash brown mixture into the prepared slow cooker, spreading it evenly across the bottom and smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to cook on low heat for 6 hours. Do not lift the lid during cooking to maintain consistent temperature and moisture.
- After 6 hours, check the casserole for doneness. The edges should be golden brown and the center should be hot and bubbly.
- Optional: For a crispy top, transfer the casserole to a broiler-safe dish and broil for 2-3 minutes until the surface is golden and slightly crisp.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
- Serve hot as a side dish or brunch item, garnishing with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Use frozen hash browns straight from the bag to save time and ensure consistent texture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding crispy bacon bits or diced ham to the mixture.
- Make sure to grease your slow cooker well to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- If you prefer a crispier top, don't skip the optional broiling step - it adds a delightful golden crunch.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after cooking to help it set and make serving easier.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like cheddar, monterey jack, or pepper jack for varied flavor profiles.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep - it reheats beautifully and tastes just as good the next day.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 55mg
