Crockpot Hashbrown Casserole (The Ultimate Comfort Food—Made Effortless)

 

For the casserole:

• 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)

• 2 cups sour cream (full-fat for creaminess)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• ½ cup diced onion (optional)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the topping:

• ½ cup crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs (optional)

• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Optional add-ins:

• 1 cup diced cooked ham, sausage, or bacon

• ½ cup chopped bell peppers

• ½ cup sautéed mushrooms

• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets

Substitution notes:No cream of chicken? Use cream of mushroom or make your own white sauce. No sour cream? Use plain Greek yogurt. Want to make it lighter? Use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese. Gluten-free? Use gluten-free cream of soup and skip the cornflake topping.

Let's Make Crockpot Hashbrown Casserole (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prep the Slow Cooker

Grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, diced onion (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is well coated.

Step 3: Transfer to the Crockpot

Pour the mixture into the prepared slow cooker. Spread it evenly, using the back of a spoon to smooth the top.

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the top.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The casserole is done when the edges are bubbling and the center is hot and set.

Step 5: Add the Topping (Optional)

If you want a crunchy topping, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Combine the crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole and continue cooking uncovered to crisp the topping.

Step 6: Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. It will hold its shape better and be easier to scoop.

Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Hashbrown Casserole

Thaw the hash browns. If you use frozen hash browns straight from the bag, the casserole will be watery. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or drain them well.

Use full-fat sour cream and cheese. Low-fat versions can separate in the slow cooker, leaving you with a grainy texture. Full-fat gives a creamier result.

Don't overcook. The hash browns are already cooked. You're just heating them through and melting the cheese. Overcooking can make them mushy.

Add mix-ins. Diced ham, sausage, bacon, or vegetables all work beautifully.

Layer for extra flavor. For a more even distribution, you can layer half the hash brown mixture, then some cheese, then the rest of the mixture.

Keep it warm. The casserole holds well in the slow cooker on the "keep warm" setting for an hour or two.

Variations to Make It Your Own

With Sausage: Cook 1 lb of breakfast sausage until browned, drain, and stir into the hash brown mixture.

With Bacon: Add 1 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the mixture or sprinkle it on top.

With Ham: Add 1 cup of diced ham to the mixture.

Vegetarian: Use cream of mushroom soup and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions.

Spicy: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for heat.

Herbed: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives.

Three-Cheese: Use a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan.

With Broccoli: Add 1 cup of steamed broccoli florets.

What to Serve With Hashbrown Casserole

This casserole is a meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:

• Roasted chicken

• Grilled steak

• Baked ham

• Fried eggs (for a breakfast-for-dinner twist)

• A fresh green salad

• Roasted vegetables

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat: Reheat in the microwave for 60-90 seconds, or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

Freezer: This casserole freezes beautifully. Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?Yes. You'll need to grate about 4 large potatoes and squeeze out the excess moisture before using.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?Yes. Use dairy-free sour cream, dairy-free cheese, and plant-based butter.

What's the difference between this and "Funeral Potatoes"?They're essentially the same dish. The name "Funeral Potatoes" comes from its popularity at post-funeral gatherings, where it was a comforting and easy dish to bring.

Can I double this recipe?Yes. Use a 6-quart slow cooker and increase the cooking time slightly.

Why is my casserole watery?Your hash browns may not have been fully thawed or drained. Thaw them well and press out excess moisture.

A Final, Creamy Thought

There's something about a slow cooker hashbrown casserole that feels like home. It's warm, creamy, and deeply satisfying in a way that transcends fancy ingredients or complicated techniques.

I've brought this dish to potlucks, family gatherings, and quiet Sunday suppers, and it never fails to deliver. People always ask for the recipe—and they're always surprised when I tell them how easy it is.

Now I'm sharing the recipe with you. Because every kitchen needs a dish that's comforting, crowd-pleasing, and so easy you can practically make it in your sleep.

Have you ever made hashbrown casserole? What's your favorite twist—with sausage, bacon, or something else? Share your tips and stories in the comments—I'd love to hear how you make this classic your own! 🥔🧀