- 3 lbs (1.4 kg) russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (⅛–¼ inch)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
- 1 cup (240ml) sour cream
- 1 cup (4 oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste (optional but recommended)
💡 Pro Tips:
- Slice potatoes evenly—use a mandoline or sharp knife.
- Don’t peel if you prefer rustic—just scrub well!
- Use freshly shredded cheese—pre-shredded won’t melt as smoothly.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Simple, Hands-Off, Foolproof)
1. Layer in Slow Cooker
- In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheese. Stir gently.
- Add sliced potatoes. Toss lightly to coat (or layer: potatoes → sauce → potatoes).
- Season with salt & pepper.
2. Cook Low & Slow
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3.5–4 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Do not stir during cooking—keeps slices intact.
3. Serve Warm
- Gently stir once before serving (sauce will be creamy and cling to potatoes).
- Top with extra cheese, chives, or crispy bacon if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- 🍗 Classic pairing: With roasted chicken, pork chops, or meatloaf
- 🥖 Vegetarian main: With garlic bread and a green salad
- 🌶️ Spicy twist: Stir in ½ tsp garlic powder + dash of hot sauce
- 🧈 Extra richness: Add a pat of butter on top before serving
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Fridge: Keeps up to 4 days—flavor deepens overnight!
- Reheat: Gently on stove or microwave with a splash of milk.
- Freeze? Not ideal—dairy may separate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen hash browns?
A: Not for this recipe—they release too much water and turn mushy.
Q: Gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use GF cream soup (like Pacific Foods) or make your own roux-based sauce.
Q: No sour cream?
A: Substitute with plain Greek yogurt or ½ cup extra cream + 1 tbsp vinegar.
Q: Want more garlic?
A: Add 2–3 minced garlic cloves or ½ tsp garlic powder with the sauce.
❤️ The Heart of the Dish
This isn’t just potatoes—it’s proof that simplicity can be spectacular. It’s the meal that says, “I’ve got this,” on your busiest days, without skimping on love.
So slice those spuds, dump in the soup, and let your slow cooker work its quiet magic. Because the best family favorites aren’t complicated—they’re cozy, creamy, and made with ease.
“Good food doesn’t need a recipe—it just needs potatoes, patience, and someone hungry.” 🥔✨