If you’re on the lookout for a crowd-pleasing dish that combines comfort and convenience, look no further than Slow Cooker Cheesy Picnic Potatoes. This recipe stands out as the perfect accompaniment for summer picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings. With its rich, creamy texture and gooey melted cheese, it’s sure to be a hit among both kids and adults alike. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. As you savor each bite, you’ll appreciate how the harmonious flavors of garlic and cheese elevate classic potatoes into a delightful side dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients

To prepare these delicious Slow Cooker Cheesy Picnic Potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

• Potatoes: 3 pounds of russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• Cheese: 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• Dairy: 1 cup sour cream, 1 cup cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)
• Butter: ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• Seasonings: 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: Chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits for garnish

For the best flavor, opt for high-quality cheese and fresh potatoes. If you’re making this dish vegetarian, consider substituting the cream of chicken soup with a homemade or store-bought vegetable alternative. Check out our related guide for more tips.

Steps / Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes: Begin by peeling and cutting the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and a delightful texture.
2. Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
3. Combine with Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the mixing bowl and stir until they are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
4. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Transfer the potato mixture into a greased slow cooker. Spread the potatoes evenly and make sure they are snugly packed.
5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes.
6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
7. Final Touch: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top and cover again until melted and bubbly.
8. Serve: Once cooked, carefully stir the potatoes and top with chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Cheesy Picnic Potatoes, consider these helpful tips:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the potato mixture and store it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen up the consistency.
• Don’t Rush: Allow the potatoes to cook thoroughly for the best flavor and texture. Cooking on low for the full duration ensures that they become creamy and flavorful.
• Common Mistakes: Avoid using waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they do not break down as well and will not achieve the desired creamy texture.

Variations

While the classic version is always a winner, you can easily adapt Slow Cooker Cheesy Picnic Potatoes to suit different tastes:

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Flavor Boost: Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or incorporate cooked sausage for additional protein.
• Change Up the Cheese: Try different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist on flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Slow Cooker Cheesy Picnic Potatoes shine as a side dish at any gathering. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, such as barbecue chicken or Savory Glazed Ham Slices. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh salad, like Bacon Pea Salad, or a light appetizer like Nachos. Garnish with fresh herbs or additional cheese for an inviting presentation that will entice your guests.

With simple preparation and rich flavors, these Slow Cooker Cheesy Picnic Potatoes are sure to become a favorite at your next gathering. Happy cooking!

Slow Cooker Cheesy Picnic Potatoes

★★★★★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Side Dish Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

8

⏱️

Prep Time

20 min

🍳

Cook Time

8 hr

🔥

Calories

400 kcal

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A crowd-pleasing dish that combines comfort and convenience, perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings.

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Ingredients

• 3 pounds of russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits for garnish (optional)

Directions

1.

Begin by peeling and cutting the potatoes into 1-inch cubes.

2.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.

3.

Add the cubed potatoes to the mixing bowl and stir until they are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

4.

Transfer the potato mixture into a greased slow cooker. Spread the potatoes evenly and make sure they are snugly packed.

5.

Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes.

6.

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

7.

During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top and cover again until melted and bubbly.

8.

Once cooked, carefully stir the potatoes and top with chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts