Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes

Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes

Introduction

These Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes are a creamy, savory, and comforting side dish that practically cooks itself. With layers of tender potatoes, rich cream sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is the definition of effortless indulgence. Perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or any meal that calls for a warm, hearty side, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly special.

The slow cooker makes this recipe especially convenient. You can prepare everything in the morning, set it, and let the potatoes slowly soak up all that rich, cheesy goodness throughout the day. When it’s time to eat, you’ll have perfectly cooked scalloped potatoes — tender, creamy, and full of flavor — ready to serve with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hands-off cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, freeing up oven space and time.
• Rich and creamy flavor: The combination of cream, milk, and cheese gives the dish a luxurious texture.
• Perfect for gatherings: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, and holidays.
• Simple ingredients: Everything used is easy to find and budget-friendly.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)	1.5 kg (about 3 lbs)
Heavy cream	1 cup
Milk	1 cup
All-purpose flour	2 tablespoons
Salt	1 teaspoon
Black pepper	1/2 teaspoon
Garlic powder	1/2 teaspoon
Onion powder	1/2 teaspoon
Paprika	1/4 teaspoon
Shredded cheddar cheese	1 cup
Grated Parmesan cheese	1/2 cup
Unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)	1 tablespoon

How to Make Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier later.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture is smooth. This creates the luscious, flavorful sauce that will soak into every layer of the potatoes.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Begin by placing a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour a portion of the cream mixture over the potatoes, then sprinkle with cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

Step 4: Add Butter and Paprika

Dot the top layer with small pieces of unsalted butter and lightly sprinkle paprika over the surface. This adds a subtle smoky flavor and a beautiful golden color when cooked.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours. The potatoes are ready when they are completely tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. The sauce should be thick, creamy, and bubbling along the edges.

Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving

Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let the potatoes rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and ensures that each serving is creamy and cohesive.

Pro Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

• Slice potatoes evenly: Thin, uniform slices help the potatoes cook evenly and absorb the sauce properly.
• Use starchy potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for a creamy texture.
• Don’t skip the rest time: Letting the dish sit before serving allows the sauce to set beautifully.
• Cheese variation: Try mixing in Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Add herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley before serving adds freshness and color.

Serving Suggestions

These slow cooker scalloped potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to a variety of main dishes. They pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, baked ham, or holiday turkey. You can also serve them as a comforting vegetarian main course with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Storage and Reheating

Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture.

For longer storage, freeze the scalloped potatoes (before or after cooking) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes are proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients and the magic of slow cooking, you can create a dish that’s both easy and unforgettable. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a festive holiday spread, this creamy, cheesy side dish will always be a hit.

Once you’ve tried this version, you’ll never want to make scalloped potatoes any other way again. Just layer, set, and let the slow cooker do the rest — comfort food made simple.