I’ve made 'Grandma's Christmas Cheesy Hug' three times this week, and it’s now officially a family tradition!

Cooktop Cove: I’ve made 'Grandma's Christmas Cheesy Hug' three times this week, and it’s now officially a family tradition!

By Holly Owens

There's something about a cheesy potato casserole that just feels like a warm hug on a chilly Midwest evening. Growing up, this dish was a staple at family gatherings, and now it's one of my go-to comfort foods. The slow cooker version is perfect for those busy weekdays when you want to come home to a ready-to-eat meal. It's creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

This cheesy potato casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. If you're looking to make it a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or a juicy steak. A nice crusty bread on the side is also a great addition to soak up all the cheesy goodness.

Slow Cooker Cheesy Potato Casserole

Servings: 6

Ingredients

2 pounds of frozen hash brown potatoes
1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup of sour cream
2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup of chopped onion
1/4 cup of melted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup of crushed cornflakes (optional, for topping)

Directions

Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.

In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, melted butter, salt, and pepper.

Add the frozen hash brown potatoes to the mixture and stir until well combined.

Pour the potato mixture into the slow cooker and spread it out evenly.

Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

If using, sprinkle the crushed cornflakes over the top during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a crunchy topping.

Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations & Tips

For a bit of a kick, try adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. You can also swap out the cheddar for a different cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile. If you're looking to make this dish vegetarian, simply use a can of cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken. For added protein, toss in some cooked bacon bits or diced ham.