This 5-ingredient slow cooker hash brown casserole is the kind of easy Labor Day side dish that frees up oven space and still comes out cozy, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing. Using frozen country style hash browns keeps prep simple, and somehow the edges turn beautifully crisp while the middle stays creamy and tender. It has that comforting casserole feel folks love at cookouts, potlucks, and family get-togethers, with hardly any fuss at all.
Serve this casserole alongside burgers, hot dogs, pulled pork, grilled chicken, or barbecue ribs for an easy holiday spread. It also fits right in with baked beans, corn on the cob, a fresh tomato salad, or a platter of watermelon. If you're feeding a hungry group, this dish holds nicely on the warm setting, which makes it especially handy for backyard gatherings and game day snacking.
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Labor Day Cookout Crispy Top Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole
Servings: 8
Ingredients
1 bag (30 to 32 ounces) frozen country style hash browns
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Directions
1. Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the frozen country style hash browns, shredded cheddar, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and melted butter until everything is well coated.
2. Spoon the mixture into the prepared slow cooker and spread it into an even layer. Cover and cook on high for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours, or on low for 4 to 5 hours, until hot and set around the edges.
3. Once the casserole is fully cooked, turn the slow cooker to warm and leave the lid slightly ajar for 10 to 15 minutes to help the top dry a bit and the edges stay crispier. Scoop and serve hot.
Variations & Tips
Make it extra cheesy: If your family loves a richer casserole, sprinkle an extra handful of cheddar over the top during the last 20 minutes of cooking. Keep the lid slightly cracked at the end so the cheese melts without making the top too soft.
For picky eaters: This casserole is nice and mild as written, which makes it great for kids and guests who like simple flavors. For an even smoother texture, let the frozen hash browns sit out for a few minutes before mixing so they blend more easily with the sauce.
To help with crispy edges: Avoid stirring during cooking, since that can soften the browned bits forming around the sides. If your slow cooker runs hot, check a little early so the edges get golden without overcooking the center.
Make-ahead tip: You can mix everything together the night before, cover the bowl, and refrigerate it. In the morning, transfer the mixture to the greased slow cooker and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be starting cold.