These slow cooker potatoes are the kind of easy, comforting side dish that busy families come back to again and again. Using dry dehydrated potato slices keeps prep simple and pantry-friendly, and with just a handful of other ingredients, they cook up creamy, tender, and full of cozy flavor. This is a wonderful recipe for potlucks, family dinners, or any day when you want something hearty without standing over the stove.
Serve these potatoes alongside baked ham, roast chicken, meatloaf, pork chops, or grilled sausage for a filling meal. They also fit nicely on a holiday table with green beans, a crisp salad, or roasted carrots, and if you want to make them feel extra special, a little fresh parsley on top and warm dinner rolls on the side do the trick.
6-Ingredient Slow Cooker National Bad Poetry Day Potatoes
Servings: 6 to 8
Ingredients
2 (4.7-ounce) boxes dry dehydrated potato slices
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
2 cups milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
Directions
1. Lightly butter or spray the inside of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Spread the dry dehydrated potato slices evenly across the bottom, then scatter the chopped onion over the top.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth. Pour the mixture evenly over the potatoes, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over everything and dot the top with butter.
3. Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking so the potatoes soften evenly.
4. Gently stir if you want a creamier casserole texture, or leave the layers mostly intact for a scalloped-style look. Let the potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving so they thicken a bit, then spoon onto plates and serve warm.
Variations & Tips
For picky eaters: Leave out the onion if your family prefers a plainer flavor. The potatoes will still turn out creamy and comforting, and you can always serve a little extra cheese on top to make them extra appealing.
Cheesier version: If your crew loves a richer casserole, increase the cheddar to 3 cups. Add half in the middle and half on top for even more melty goodness throughout the dish.
Make it a meal: Stir in 1 to 2 cups of diced cooked ham during assembly if you want to turn this side dish into a simple main course. That is one of my favorite ways to make it hearty enough for a busy weeknight supper.
Texture tip: Since dehydrated potato slices can vary a little by brand, check for tenderness near the end of cooking time. If the potatoes are still a bit firm, add a splash more milk, cover, and cook for another 30 minutes.
Serving tip: These potatoes hold heat well, so they are especially handy for church suppers, family get-togethers, and holiday meals. A little rest before serving helps the sauce settle and makes scooping much neater.