I've quite literally been making this exact recipe for years! I add extra sharp cheddar on top, use half a cup of deans French onion dip instead of chopped onions, and chicken stuffing as the topping.

Per slow cooker cookbook... This recipe can be done in a Crock-Pot - by browning hash browns first in oil, then transfer to slow cooker. Add rest of ingredients, stir well. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours. This way you can enjoy a favorite food - without heating up kitchen during summer weather. Hope this helps!

For a complete main dish meal I put in sliced up cooked bratwurst and replace the cream of chicken soup with Alfredo sauce.

Can absolutely make in the slow cooker, no need to brown, I just cut the butter in half because for some reason it is too much in the slow cooker and ends up floating on top.

For topping I use Cheez-It crackers. Very good!