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How to Make Cheddar Potato Casserole in the Slow Cooker
Making this cheesy and creamy casserole is as easy as 1-2-3. Follow these simple steps to prepare the dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into bite-sized cubes. You don’t need to worry about being perfectly uniform, but try to keep the pieces roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. Place the diced potatoes in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the Creamy Ingredients
Add the sour cream, heavy cream, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine and coat the potatoes in the creamy mixture. This will give the casserole its rich and flavorful base.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Butter
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes, and then add the butter pieces on top. The butter will melt during cooking, creating a silky, creamy texture.
Step 4: Cook on Low
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on the low setting for 4-6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. If you’re in a rush, you can cook it on high for 2-3 hours, but low and slow yields the best results.
Step 5: Stir and Serve
Once the casserole is cooked and the potatoes are tender, give it a good stir to ensure everything is well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or ranch seasoning as desired.
You can optionally top the casserole with crumbled bacon, green onions, or even a little extra shredded cheese and cook on low for an additional 10-15 minutes for extra cheesy goodness. Then, serve and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Cheddar Potato Casserole
- Use Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for this casserole because they become tender and fluffy as they cook. Avoid using waxy potatoes, as they won’t break down as nicely.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the casserole. Grating cheese yourself ensures the smoothest, creamiest results.
- Add Toppings: While this casserole is already delicious on its own, adding a topping of crispy bacon, sautéed onions, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives can enhance the flavor even more.
- Make it Ahead: This casserole can be prepared the night before. Just layer everything in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, pop it into the slow cooker, set it on low, and enjoy a hot meal later in the day.
Serving Suggestions
Cheddar Potato Casserole is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steaks, pork chops, or even a hearty salad for a complete meal. It also makes an excellent side dish for holiday dinners, barbecues, or potlucks. Here are some serving ideas:
- With Grilled Meat: Pair this casserole with grilled chicken, steak, or even a juicy burger.
- As a Comfort Meal: Enjoy it by itself as a comforting, filling meal, especially during colder months.
- Perfect for Holidays: Bring this casserole to your holiday celebrations, where it will surely be a hit with family and friends.
Conclusion
Cheddar Potato Casserole in the Slow Cooker is a delicious, hands-off dish that makes meal prep a breeze. With its creamy texture, savory flavor, and cheesy goodness, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this casserole will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let this tasty dish work its magic!
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