Slow Cooker Hashbrown Casserole

Slow Cooker Hashbrown Casserole is cheesy and creamy and makes for a perfect side dish any day of the week. 

One of the things I love most about this Slow Cooker Hashbrown Casserole is that I can make this delicious recipe ahead of time and then pop into the slow cooker when I am ready to cook my side dish. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Hashbrown Casserole

Can I use a substitute for sour cream

Yes! You can use greek yogurt instead of sour cream if you would like to use something different.  Using greek yogurt will make your recipe contain a little less fat.  Be sure that when are you selecting your greek yogurt at the grocery store that you choose a plain greek yogurt.  Do not use a flavored greek yogurt in your casserole. 

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Hashbrown Casserole

Absolutely!  You can freeze this casserole.  There are two options to freeze this dish.  

You can mix all the ingredients together and place all your ingredients into a freezer bag.  Label your freezer bag with the name and date of your dish.  When ready to cook you can thaw overnight in the fridge or you can empty the freezer bag directly into your slow cooker and add an additional 1 to 2 hours to your cooking time.  Be sure to still top with the extra cheese during the cooking process. 

The second way that you can freeze your casserole is by freezing already cooked.  Cook your hashbrown casserole per the directions listed below, and then place in a freezer safe container. When I am freezing an already cooked casserole I prefer to freeze them in a foil pan so that all I need to do is remove from the freezer and place into the oven to reheat my already cooker casserole.  You do not have to thaw your casserole if you are reheating an already cooked casserole, however doing so will greatly reduce your reheating time. If you are reheating a frozen casserole bake at 350 degrees for 50 to 60 minutes until warm all the way through.  For a thawed casserole bake at 350 degrees at 30 to 45 minutes until warm in the center. 

How can I make this recipe a meal

It’s very simple to turn this casserole into a meal.  Here are some additions to add more to your casserole

• Diced ham
• Sliced smoked sausage
• Diced cooked chicken
• Browned breakfast sausage 

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen

Yes! You can make hashbrowns from fresh potatoes.  To make homemade hashbrowns you will need to either dice or shred your potatoes.  If you are wanting shredded potatoes, shred them with a cheese grater. You can peel your potatoes or just wash and leave the peels on.  I like to leave the peels on when I am making homemade hashbrowns.  Just be sure to wash your potatoes well.   

Once you have diced or shredded your potatoes place them into a bowl of cold water and stir.  Drain off the starch water after one or two minutes and then repeat the process of stirring into a clean bowl of water.  After your second rinse remove your potatoes from the water and dry as much as you can. You can place your potatoes in a colander and shake off as much water and then pat dry with a towel or paper towel.   After you have dried them thoroughly they are ready for you to cook with.   At this point you could also freeze them for when you are ready to eat or use them. 

How long can I store leftover Slow Cooker Hashbrown Casserole

You can store your leftovers in the fridge for up to five days as long as you keep them tightly covered and cool in the fridge.  If you are freezing your leftovers you can freeze for up to three months. 

Slow Cooker Hashbrown Casserole

1 (32 ounce) package frozen southern style (cubed) hashbrown potatoes

1 (10 ¾ ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup

2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese, divided

1 cup sour cream

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

How To Make 

1. Prepare the slow cooker liner with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Place all ingredients into the slow cooker EXCEPT ½ cup cheese. Mix together until well combined. Press down and top with remaining cheese.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours.

Cooking Tips

Add a little crunch to your casserole by topping with crushed ritz crackers or crushed cornflakes for the last 30 minutes of cooking. 

You can also use shredded hashbrown potatoes instead of diced if you prefer

More Slow Cooker Recipes

Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole

Slow Cooker Lemon Turkey Breast

Slow Cooker White Bean Enchilada Soup

Slow Cooker Garlic Smashed Potatoes