Experience the ultimate comfort with our Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes, a truly irresistible side dish crafted with layers of thinly sliced potatoes, smothered in a rich, creamy sauce, and generously topped with a blend of sharp cheddar and savory Parmesan cheeses. This recipe transforms a classic favorite into an effortless slow cooker masterpiece, making it a perfect addition to any meal, from weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings.
Effortless Elegance: The Ultimate Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Scalloped potatoes have long held a special place at dinner tables, cherished for their hearty warmth and indulgent flavors. But let’s be honest, traditional oven-baked versions can often feel like a time-consuming endeavor, demanding constant attention and precise timing. That’s where the magic of your slow cooker comes in! This Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes recipe is designed to take the stress out of creating this beloved comfort food, allowing you to achieve perfectly tender potatoes and a lusciously cheesy sauce with minimal fuss.
Imagine a scenario where your main course is simmering on the stove or roasting in the oven, and your side dish is quietly cooking itself to perfection, freeing you up to manage other aspects of your meal prep, or simply relax. The slow cooker method is a game-changer for busy home cooks who crave delicious, homemade dishes without the overwhelming multi-tasking. This recipe doesn’t just promise ease; it delivers an exceptional taste experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to make cheesy, creamy scalloped potatoes!
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for a smaller group or don’t need a large batch of potatoes, you can easily halve this recipe. Just be sure to use a smaller slow cooker, typically a 3-4 quart size, to ensure the potatoes cook evenly and are adequately submerged in the sauce.
This recipe is wonderfully versatile and can be customized to your liking! For extra flavor, consider adding thinly sliced yellow onions in layers with the potatoes. You can also incorporate other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach for added texture and nutrients. For a heartier dish, stir in cooked, crumbled bacon, shredded chicken, or diced ham to transform it into a more complete meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices too – a touch of thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
While cheddar and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to use any cheese you have on hand or prefer. Mozzarella offers a delightful stretch and mild flavor, while Pepper Jack can introduce a subtle spicy kick. For a truly gourmet experience, try Smoked Gouda. Its rich, smoky notes add an incredible depth of flavor that complements the creamy potatoes perfectly. I even featured Smoked Gouda in my popular Baked Scalloped Potatoes recipe for a reason!
Yes, you absolutely can! To save time on the day of serving, you can assemble all the ingredients in your slow cooker the day before. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply transfer the slow cooker insert from the fridge to the base and begin cooking. Please note that starting with cold ingredients might extend the cooking time by an hour or so, so plan accordingly.
These Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes are ideal for entertaining! Once they’re fully cooked and fork-tender, you can switch your slow cooker to the “warm” setting. They will hold beautifully for up to 3 hours, remaining creamy and delicious without drying out or overcooking. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead option for potlucks, holiday dinners, or any gathering where you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing side.
While a mandolin slicer can certainly make the task of thinly slicing potatoes quicker and more uniform, it is by no means essential. If you don’t own one, a sharp chef’s knife and a steady hand will work perfectly fine. The key is to aim for slices that are approximately 1/4-inch thick to ensure even cooking and that classic scalloped potato texture. It might take a few extra minutes, but the delicious results are worth the effort.
Peeling the potatoes is entirely optional and comes down to personal preference. The skins of russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are quite thin and tender once cooked, adding a rustic charm and a bit of extra fiber to the dish. If you prefer a smoother, more traditional scalloped potato, go ahead and peel them. Regardless of your choice, always ensure the potatoes are thoroughly scrubbed clean under running water and patted dry with paper towels before slicing to remove any dirt or impurities.
These versatile scalloped potatoes complement a wide array of main courses. Their creamy, cheesy richness makes them an excellent companion for savory meats. Some of our top recommendations include juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites, a perfectly Roasted Chicken, tender Air Fryer Pork Chops, baked ham, or even a simple pan-seared salmon. They also make a fantastic addition to any holiday spread, offering a comforting contrast to roasted turkey or prime rib.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can gently warm them in the microwave, or for a crispier top, bake them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For longer storage, these scalloped potatoes freeze exceptionally well. Simply transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Key Ingredients for Perfectly Creamy Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes
Crafting the perfect batch of slow cooker scalloped potatoes starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that creamy texture and rich, savory flavor that makes this dish so irresistible. Below, we break down the essential items you’ll need, along with some helpful tips for substitutions and optimal results.
- Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes are ideal for scalloped dishes because they break down slightly during cooking, releasing starches that help thicken the sauce and create a wonderfully tender texture. Depending on their size, you’ll need about 3-4 medium to large russets, totaling around 3 pounds. If russets aren’t available, Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent alternative, offering a slightly creamier texture and a naturally buttery flavor. Always ensure your potatoes are clean and sliced uniformly for even cooking.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: This is the secret to a truly decadent and thick sauce. Full-fat heavy cream provides the richness and body necessary for the classic scalloped potato experience. While you *could* technically use half-and-half in a pinch, be aware that it will result in a thinner, less luxurious sauce. Regular milk is too thin and should not be substituted, as it won’t allow the sauce to set up properly.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth gives you greater control over the overall saltiness of your dish. This is especially useful if you’re mindful of your sodium intake or if your cheese is particularly salty. If you prefer a richer, more intense chicken flavor, feel free to use chicken stock. For the ultimate control over ingredients, consider making your own Homemade Chicken Broth. If you enjoy a saltier profile, regular chicken broth works perfectly too.
- Unsalted Butter: Butter contributes a beautiful, foundational richness to our sauce. We recommend unsalted butter to maintain control over the seasoning. However, if salted butter is all you have, don’t hesitate to use it. The small amount of salt in salted butter typically won’t significantly alter the dish’s flavor balance, especially when balanced with other ingredients.
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic is paramount for infusing the sauce with a robust, aromatic flavor. While jarred minced garlic can work in a pinch for convenience, the vibrant, pungent taste of fresh garlic truly elevates the dish. Aim for 5 cloves, finely minced, to ensure every bite is bursting with garlicky goodness.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese brings its signature sharp, tangy flavor and wonderful melting qualities to these potatoes. Freshly shredded cheddar melts more smoothly and incorporates better into the sauce than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents. Feel free to explore other cheese options mentioned in our FAQ section above, such as mozzarella or Pepper Jack.
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty, and umami depth that beautifully complements the cheddar. If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, simply substitute with additional cheddar cheese or another firm, flavorful cheese that melts well, as suggested in our FAQs.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors. Adjust to your taste, remembering that some cheeses are already quite salty.
- Dried Parsley (Optional): A sprinkle of dried parsley at the end provides a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbaceous note, making the finished dish look even more appetizing. It’s an optional garnish, but highly recommended for presentation.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Irresistible Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes
Creating these creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes in your slow cooker is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps to achieve a perfectly tender and flavorful side dish that will impress everyone at your table.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by washing and scrubbing your russet potatoes thoroughly. If you choose to peel them, do so now. Slice the potatoes into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds. For best results and even cooking, aim for consistent thickness. A mandolin slicer makes this step quick and easy, but a sharp knife works just as well. Set the sliced potatoes aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Craft the Creamy Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy whipping cream, low-sodium chicken broth, unsalted butter, minced garlic cloves, salt, and black pepper. Place the pot over low heat and gently stir until the butter is completely melted and all ingredients are well combined. Be careful not to let the mixture boil; you just want it warm enough to melt the butter and infuse the flavors. This should yield approximately 1 ½ cups of rich, aromatic sauce. Remove from heat once melted.
- Layer the First Batch of Potatoes: Take about one-third of your thinly sliced potatoes and arrange them in an even layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. There’s no need to grease the crock pot, as the butter in the sauce will prevent sticking.
- Drizzle with Sauce: Evenly pour about ½ cup of the prepared creamy sauce over the first layer of potatoes, ensuring each slice gets some of that delicious liquid.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle one-third of both the shredded cheddar cheese and shredded Parmesan cheese over the sauce-covered potatoes. This creates a beautiful, cheesy layer that will melt down into the potatoes as they cook.
- Repeat the Layers: Continue layering the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheeses, repeating steps 3 through 5 two more times. The top layer should be a generous blanket of cheese.
- Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid on your slow cooker. Cook the scalloped potatoes on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 5-6 hours. The exact cooking time will vary slightly depending on your slow cooker model and the thickness of your potato slices. The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender and the cheese sauce is bubbly and thickened.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, if desired, sprinkle a teaspoon of dried parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color. Carefully scoop out generous servings of these creamy, cheesy Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes and watch them disappear!
Craving More Comforting Potato Recipes?
If you love potatoes as much as we do, you’re in for a treat! Explore some of our other favorite recipes that feature this versatile and comforting vegetable:
- Crock Pot Million Dollar Mashed Potatoes: Incredibly rich and creamy mashed potatoes made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
- Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes: A unique and flavorful potato dish with a fun name!
- Funeral Potatoes: The ultimate cheesy, crunchy, and comforting potato casserole.
- Classic Oven-Baked Scalloped Potatoes: For those who prefer the traditional oven method, this recipe is a must-try.
- Mississippi Mud Potatoes: A hearty and flavorful potato dish packed with savory ingredients.
- Cowboy Butter Potatoes: Crispy potatoes tossed in a rich, herby cowboy butter sauce.
- Taco Potatoes: A fun, Mexican-inspired twist on baked potatoes.
- Stove Top Mashed Potatoes: A quick and classic recipe for perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes.
Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes
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20 minutes
3 hours
3 hours
20 minutes
8
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
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3 pounds russet potatoes (about 3-4 potatoes, depending how large they are) -
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1 cup heavy whipping cream -
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¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth -
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4 Tablespoons unsalted butter (can use salted) -
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5 garlic cloves, minced -
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1 teaspoon salt -
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1 teaspoon black pepper -
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese -
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½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese -
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1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cut 3 pounds russet potatoes into 1/4” thick slices. Set aside. You can achieve this by hand with a sharp knife or using a mandolin for speed and uniformity.
- In a small pot over low heat, combine 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth, 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, 5 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Stir occasionally until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is well combined (avoid boiling). This can also be done by gently warming in the microwave. Remove from heat.
- Arrange approximately one-third of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Pour about 1/2 cup of the prepared sauce evenly over the potatoes.
- Evenly sprinkle one-third of the shredded cheddar cheese and shredded Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
- Repeat the layering process (potatoes, sauce, cheese) two more times, ensuring the top layer is generously covered with cheese.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 5-6 hours, or until the potatoes are completely fork-tender and the cheese sauce is bubbly and thickened.
- Optional: Garnish with 1 teaspoon dried parsley before serving for a touch of freshness and color. Enjoy your perfectly creamy and cheesy Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes!
Notes
- For answers to common questions, ingredient substitutions, and extra tips, please refer to the detailed Frequently Asked Questions section earlier in this post.
Side Dish
American
Nutrition
Calories: 432kcal
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Carbohydrates: 34g
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Protein: 13g
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Fat: 28g
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Sodium: 605mg
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 2g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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