Brought this to Mother’s Day brunch and my aunt asked if I hired a caterer.

This 5-ingredient slow cooker loaded potato casserole is my secret weapon for brunches and potlucks—especially Mother’s Day. It tastes like a fully loaded baked potato, but you dump everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you get ready or wrangle kids.

I actually brought this to a Mother’s Day brunch, and my aunt pulled me aside to ask which caterer I used. I just smiled and changed the subject, because the truth is it starts with a bag of frozen hash browns and a few fridge staples. It’s cozy, cheesy, and feels a little fancy without asking much from you on a busy morning.

Serve this loaded potato casserole straight from the slow cooker or transfer it to a cast iron dish for that just-catered look. It pairs perfectly with scrambled eggs or an egg bake, fresh fruit salad, and something green like a simple side salad or roasted asparagus to balance the richness. For brunch, add coffee, mimosas, or iced tea. For a casual dinner, serve it alongside grilled chicken or sausages and a crisp coleslaw. A bowl of this plus a simple green salad also makes an easy, comforting weeknight meal.

5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Casserole
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients
1 (30–32 oz) bag frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled, divided
2 cups sour cream
1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional, but recommended)
Nonstick cooking spray (for the slow cooker insert)
2 tablespoons sliced green onions or chives, for garnish (optional but highly recommended)
Directions