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Easy Cheesy Crockpot Hashbrown Casserole Recipe for Perfect Easter Brunch

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A creamy, cheesy slow cooker hashbrown casserole that’s perfect for Easter brunch or any busy morning. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients and requires minimal prep time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 32 oz (900 g) frozen hashbrowns (small, diced, or shredded)
  • 3 cups (340 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
  • 4 tbsp (55 g) butter, melted
  • 1 package (1 oz / 28 g) onion soup mix
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 1/2 cup (75 g) cooked bacon bits
  • Optional: 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Take the cream cheese out early to let it soften at room temperature (about 30 minutes). Shred the cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine frozen hashbrowns, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese.
  3. Stir in sour cream, milk, and melted butter until the mixture feels thick but easily scoopable.
  4. Add onion soup mix, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute flavor evenly.
  5. Fold in cooked bacon bits or chopped green onions if using.
  6. Spray the slow cooker insert with non-stick cooking spray or lightly butter it. Pour the mixture in and spread evenly.
  7. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours. Avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain heat.
  8. Check doneness when bubbly around edges and a knife inserted in the center comes out warm and coated.
  9. Serve warm, scooping out portions with a large spoon or spatula.

Notes

Do not thaw the hashbrowns before cooking to avoid sogginess. Use softened cream cheese for smooth texture. Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking to maintain heat. If casserole is watery at the end, cook uncovered on HIGH for 15-20 minutes to evaporate moisture. Can be baked in a 9×13-inch dish at 350°F for about 1 hour 15 minutes as an alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: hashbrown casserole, crockpot casserole, cheesy casserole, Easter brunch, slow cooker recipe, easy brunch recipe, comfort food