There’s something truly magical about the aroma of scalloped potatoes slowly cooking in a slow cooker. The anticipation as you wait for that creamy, cheesy dish to be ready is part of the charm of this classic comfort food. For many of us, scalloped potatoes are more than just a side dish—they’re a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings, festive meals, and cozy dinners.
I first fell in love with scalloped potatoes during a family holiday dinner years ago. My grandmother had made them, and their rich, creamy texture and cheesy goodness stole the show. Her secret was simple: patience and quality ingredients. Over the years, I’ve tweaked her recipe to make it even more convenient for everyday meals without sacrificing the rich flavors that make scalloped potatoes so irresistible.
The Best Ever Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes take this beloved dish to a whole new level by harnessing the power of the slow cooker. Imagine coming home to find a bubbling, golden-brown casserole ready to serve—a comforting, warm meal that practically cooks itself while you go about your day. This recipe is not only easy to make but also guarantees a satisfying, creamy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1.5 kg (about 3 lbs) potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Directions
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
To ensure your scalloped potatoes come out perfectly, start by lightly greasing the inside of your slow cooker. You can use butter or cooking spray for this step. The grease will help prevent the potatoes from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Cream Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, and flour. This mixture will serve as the base of your creamy sauce. The flour helps to thicken the sauce, creating a rich, velvety texture. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the bowl. These seasonings infuse the sauce with flavor, ensuring that every bite of your scalloped potatoes is well-seasoned.
Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the flour is completely incorporated. This sauce will envelop the potatoes as they cook, creating layers of creamy goodness.
3. Layer the Potatoes
Begin layering the sliced potatoes in the slow cooker. Make sure the potatoes are peeled and thinly sliced to ensure they cook evenly. Start with a layer of potatoes, then pour a portion of the cream mixture over the top. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the cream mixture.
The cheeses will melt and blend into the sauce, adding a delightful richness and a slightly tangy flavor from the Parmesan. Continue layering the potatoes, cream mixture, and cheeses until all the ingredients are used up. Be sure to end with a layer of cheese on top—this will become wonderfully golden and bubbly during cooking.
4. Add the Finishing Touches
Dot the top of your layered potatoes with small pieces of unsalted butter. The butter will melt and further enrich the dish, adding a silky texture and a subtle buttery flavor. Sprinkle a little paprika over the top for a pop of color and an extra hint of flavor. Paprika adds a touch of smokiness and complements the creamy cheese beautifully.
5. Cook the Scalloped Potatoes
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook them on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the potatoes to become tender and creamy. If possible, avoid lifting the lid during cooking as this can affect the cooking time and temperature.
6. Let the Dish Rest
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid and let the scalloped potatoes rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to fully develop. It also makes serving easier, as the dish will hold its shape better after resting.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Spoon out the creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes onto plates and serve warm. They pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, from roast meats to grilled vegetables. For a truly comforting meal, enjoy them alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
1. Different Cheeses: While cheddar and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese. Gruyère, Gouda, or a blend of your favorites can add unique flavors and textures to your scalloped potatoes.
2. Add Vegetables: For a more nutritious dish, consider adding other vegetables. Thinly sliced carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach can be layered in with the potatoes. Just make sure the vegetables are cut thinly to cook evenly.
3. Herb Infusions: Enhance the flavor with fresh or dried herbs. Thyme, rosemary, or chives can add a fragrant, savory note to the dish. Sprinkle them in between the layers or on top for added flavor.
4. Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Adjust the quantity as needed to achieve the desired thickness of the sauce.
5. Lower Fat: To make a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even whole milk. However, the creaminess may be slightly reduced, and you might need to adjust the flour to ensure the sauce thickens properly.
Conclusion
The Best Ever Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes are a testament to the idea that great comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. This recipe combines the convenience of the slow cooker with the rich, creamy, and cheesy flavors that make scalloped potatoes a timeless favorite.
The ease of preparation, along with the ability to set it and forget it, makes this dish ideal for busy days or special occasions. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table, whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.
With its layers of tender potatoes, rich cream sauce, and melted cheese, this recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of these scalloped potatoes, and savor the joy they bring to your family and friends.
