Are you craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly cheesy side dish that requires minimal effort? Look no further! This Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes recipe is the ultimate answer for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Forget about complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this dish lets your slow cooker do the heavy lifting, resulting in perfectly tender potatoes swimming in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It's a delicious and satisfying addition to any meal, perfect for serving alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or simply enjoyed on its own. Get ready to experience cheesy potato perfection!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ¼ cup butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Vegetables: Peel and cube the Yukon Gold potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Ensure the potatoes are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the potatoes, onion, and garlic. Dot the butter evenly over the vegetables.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth, ensuring no lumps form. Then, stir in the heavy cream.
Step 4: Combine and Cook: Pour the creamy sauce over the potatoes and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Add the Cheese: Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Cover and let the cheese melt completely, stirring occasionally to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Tips for Extra Delicious Cheesy Potatoes:
- Potato Variety: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, but you can experiment with other varieties like russet or red potatoes.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme can elevate the flavor profile. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Bacon Bits: Crumble some cooked bacon over the top for extra savory goodness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories (depending on potato type and cheese amounts)
Fat: High fat content due to cheese and butter
Protein: Moderate
Carbohydrates: High
This information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used. For precise nutritional values, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredient quantities.
Variations:
- Sour Cream Cheesy Potatoes: Substitute some of the heavy cream with sour cream for a tangier flavor.
- Garlic Lovers Delight: Add extra garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
- BBQ Cheesy Potatoes: Stir in a ¼ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet, and savory twist. This is great for a side with pulled pork.
This Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's a delicious and easy recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!