If you're a fan of the menu at this American chain of restaurants which serves a variety of foods such as burgers, steaks, pasta, and seafood then you'll love this collection of copycat recipes.
Slow Cooker Au Gratin Hash Brown Potatoes With Crispy Onion Topping
- add review
- #49388
For those days when cooking requires minimal effort but maximum flavor, these au gratin hash browns fit the bill perfectly. With a rich cheese sauce and a crunchy topping, each serving is a crowd-pleaser waiting to happen.
serves/makes:
ready in:
2-5 hrs
2-5 hrs
3 reviews
2 comments
ingredients
1 package (32 ounce size) frozen hash brown potatoes
2 cans (10.75 ounce size) Cheddar cheese soup
1 can (12 ounce size) evaporated milk
1 can (3 ounce size) French fried onion rings, divided
salt and pepper, to taste
directions
Grease the inside of the crock pot.
Combine the hash browns, cheese soup, evaporated milk, and all but 1/4 cup of the fried onion rings in the crock pot. Stir gently to combine.
Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or until the potatoes are cooked through. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Serve with the remaining onion rings sprinkled on top.
crock pot notes
Crock pots/slow cookers all heat differently. There is no standard among manufacturers. Cooking times are suggested guidelines based on our testing. Please adjust cooking times and temps to work with your brand and model of slow cooker.recipe tips
Add some shredded cheese on top before serving for extra cheesiness.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes to the dish.
For extra flavor, add garlic powder or onion powder in the mixture.
Remember to taste and adjust seasoning after cooking, as flavors can meld in the crock pot.
Make sure the crock pot is greased well to avoid sticking. Use cooking spray, butter, or shortening.
Serving the dish with a dollop of sour cream can add a nice tang.
common recipe questions
What if I can't find Cheddar cheese soup?
You can substitute it with a mixture of shredded cheddar cheese and a basic white sauce, use a canned cheese sauce (like for nachos) or use cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.
Is evaporated milk necessary, or can I use regular milk?
Evaporated milk helps create a creamier texture and richer flavor. You can use whole milk or heavy cream as a substitute, but the results may vary slightly. Also, evaporated milk is less likely to curdle than milk or heavy cream.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or even spinach to enhance flavor and nutrition. Lightly saute bell peppers or onions before adding them.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
Can I freeze the dish?
You can freeze the dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for about 2-3 months.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in a covered baking dish in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave leftovers but you may need to add some liquid if it seems dry.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients and assemble everything in the crock pot the night before. Just refrigerate the assembled dish, and then cook it in the morning.
Could I cook this dish in the oven instead of a crock pot?
You can bake the dish in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for about 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden and the potatoes are cooked through.
tools needed
Crock Pot: For cooking the hash brown mixture.
Can Opener: For opening the cheese soup and evaporated milk if they are not pull-tab cans.
Spatula or Large Spoon: Used for gently combining the hash browns, cheese soup, evaporated milk, and onion rings in the crock pot.
Serving Spoon: To serve the finished dish.
what goes with it?
Crispy Bacon: Sprinkle chopped, cooked bacon on top for added texture and a smoky flavor.
Grilled Chicken Breast: Serve alongside a juicy grilled chicken breast; the protein balance pairs well with the creamy, cheesy potatoes.
Steamed Broccoli: A side of steamed broccoli offers a fresh, slightly bitter balance that cuts through the richness of the potatoes.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds a cool creaminess that enhances the dish, bringing a nice contrast to the warmth of the potatoes. You can also top it with ranch dressing or ketchup.
Baked Ham: Serve with slices of baked ham for a salty-sweet combination.
Chili: Serve with a side of chili for a hearty meal. The heat and textures of the chili contrast nicely with the creamy potatoes.
Pickled Jalapenos: Add a kick and tang with pickled jalapenos either mixed into the potatoes or as a garnish on top.
beverage pairings
Wine Pairings
Chardonnay: A creamy Chardonnay will bring out the cheese beautifully. Look for one that's buttery and has a hint of oak.
Sauvignon Blanc: A zesty Sauvignon Blanc with bright acidity can cut through the richness. Aim for a crisp version that packs citrus notes, like grapefruit.
Pinot Grigio: This light, food-friendly white will work nicely since its clean and refreshing nature will balance all the cheesy flavors. Go for one that has a little green apple or pear hint.
Other Alcohol Pairings
Pale Ale: A hoppy Pale Ale with citrusy notes won't overwhelm this dish. It balances out the richness, and the carbonation brings a nice edge.
Cream Stout: The roasted and chocolate notes in a cream stout complement the savory flavors of the potatoes, while its full-bodied nature makes it a rich companion for comfort food like this.
Vodka Martinis: A simple, well-made vodka martini offers a crisp and clean contrast to the hearty casserole without adding conflicting flavors.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing herbal iced tea, say, peppermint or chamomile, can enhance the flavors without added sugar.
Fresh Lemonade: A perfectly tart lemonade serves as a great counter to the richness of the dish. Go for a not-too-sweet homemade version, with a little fresh mint if you're feeling fancy.
nutrition data
276 calories, 12 grams fat, 35 grams carbohydrates, 9 grams protein per serving.
It may look like a sad little package shoved in the back of your freezer, but frozen spinach actually has a lot of culinary uses (and some may surprise you).
Got leftovers? We've got recipes. 18 delicious recipes using cooked chicken (plus 9 bonus recipes!)
reviews & comments
I need to double the recipe for a family get together. How long does the double recipe need to cook in the crock pot? Thank you.
February 26, 2012
Just average, I'd say, but not terrible. It was just missing 'something'; not sure what. I liked the nutmeg in it
Are you sure you have the right recipe? There is no nutmeg in this.
December 27, 2010
Made this for Christmas dinner and they were a hit! I had some leftover so I put in a pan and heated, thinned with milk and added some chopped ham, chives and some garlic! Wonderful hearty soup!!!! :)
I'm trusting the previous comment on how Good this is, so I'm going to make it but i like the idea of sliced potatoes, so i will slice then a 1/4" thick boil them for 10 min, and then add them to crock pot with the ingredients and cook as directed, Hope it turns out just as good with a more homemade look!
December 27, 2008
This was sooooo easy and sooooo good. I plan on preparing this again for a family get together.