how long to cook cheesy potatoes in crockpot

If you're looking for an easy and delicious side dish to serve on a weeknight or for a special occasion, cheesy potatoes cooked in a crockpot are a great option. Not only do they taste amazing, but they're also very simple to make. In this article, we'll cover all the details you need to know for how long to cook cheesy potatoes in crockpot, the ingredients you'll need, and some other tips and tricks to make these potatoes truly outstanding.

Ingredients needed for cheesy crockpot potatoes

Before you begin cooking your potatoes in the crockpot, you'll need to gather the following ingredients:

2 pounds of potatoes
1 tablespoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
1 teaspoon of paprika
½ teaspoon of salt
¼ teaspoon of black pepper
½ cup of chicken broth
2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup of heavy cream
¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-step instructions for making crockpot cheesy potatoes

Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, it's time to start cooking. Follow these step-by-step instructions for how to make cheesy potatoes in a crockpot:

Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Rinse them in cold water and pat them dry.
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the potatoes to the crockpot and sprinkle the seasoning mixture on top. Toss the potatoes to ensure they're evenly coated.
Pour the chicken broth over the potatoes and cover the crockpot with a lid. Cook on high heat for 3-4 hours or on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
Once the potatoes are cooked, add the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream to the crockpot and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top of the potatoes and serve hot.

Tips for selecting the right type of potatoes for this recipe

When it comes to choosing the right type of potatoes for this recipe, the best options are typically Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. These varieties have a high starch content, which will help the potatoes become tender as they cook in the crockpot. If you use a waxy potato, like red potatoes, they may not get as tender and they may hold their shape better, which may not be ideal for this particular recipe.

Ways to enhance the flavor of your cheesy crockpot potatoes

If you want to take your cheesy potatoes to the next level, there are a few ways to enhance the flavor of this dish. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Add diced ham or cooked bacon to the crockpot along with the potatoes.
Include some chopped onions or minced garlic in the seasoning mixture for some additional savory flavor.
Top the finished potatoes with a dash of hot sauce or some crumbled blue cheese for a spicy kick.
Bake the finished potatoes in the oven for a few minutes to create a crispy golden crust on top.

Variations on the traditional cheesy potato recipe

If you're a fan of cheesy potatoes, there are countless variations on this classic recipe that you can try. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter and more nutrient-packed dish.
Mix in some broccoli or cauliflower florets to add some extra veggies to your meal.
Swap out the cheddar cheese for another type of cheese, like Swiss or Gouda, for a different flavor profile.
Add some chopped jalapeno or green chilies to the crockpot for a spicy twist.

How to store and reheat leftover cheesy potatoes from the crockpot

If you have any leftover cheesy potatoes, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply transfer the potatoes to a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the potatoes in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Ideas for serving your crockpot cheesy potatoes as a side dish or main course

Cheesy potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served in many different ways. Here are a few ideas for how to serve your potatoes:

As a side dish for roasted or grilled meat, like chicken, beef, or pork.
As a vegetarian main course, served with some crusty bread and a side salad.
As a party dip, served with tortilla chips or crudités.
As a breakfast or brunch dish, served with some scrambled eggs and bacon.

Nutritional information and health benefits of cheesy potatoes cooked in a crockpot

While cheesy potatoes are undoubtedly delicious, they're not exactly the healthiest dish out there. However, there are some nutrients to be found in this recipe. For instance, potatoes are a good source of vitamin C and potassium, while cheese provides a good dose of calcium and protein. To make this dish a bit healthier, consider using reduced-fat cheese and substituting some of the heavy cream with chicken broth or low-fat milk.

Frequently asked questions about cooking cheesy potatoes in a crockpot

Here are some common questions that people have about making cheesy potatoes in a crockpot:

Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can peel and chop the potatoes, mix together the seasoning mixture, and shred the cheese up to a day in advance. Then, on cooking day, simply add the ingredients to the crockpot as directed and start cooking.

Can I use frozen potatoes in this recipe?

We recommend using fresh potatoes for the best texture and flavor. Frozen potatoes are usually pre-cooked and may not hold up as well in the crockpot. If you only have frozen potatoes, though, you can try using them and adjusting the cooking time as necessary.

Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of the crockpot?

Absolutely! Simply preheat your oven to 375°F and follow the instructions for seasoning the potatoes and making the sauce. Then, transfer everything to a baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

We hope you've found this article helpful for making perfect cheesy potatoes in your crockpot. With the right ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish that your whole family will love. So go ahead and give it a try!