Easy and Delicious Crock Pot Recipes for Every Meal

How to Make Creamy and Delicious Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes Every Time

Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food favorite, known for their creamy layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a luscious cheese sauce. While traditionally made in the oven, making scalloped potatoes in your crock pot slow cooker is a convenient and foolproof way to achieve perfect tenderness and flavor with minimal effort. Whether you're serving it as a side alongside a hearty pot roast crock pot meal or simply craving a creamy, cheesy side dish, crock pot scalloped potatoes bring a wonderful homemade touch to any slow cooker dinner.

Why Make Scalloped Potatoes in a Crock Pot?

Using a crock pot for scalloped potatoes has several advantages:

  • Hands-off cooking: Once the ingredients are assembled, your crock pot does the work without needing constant attention.
  • Even slow cooking: The low heat allows the potatoes to soften gradually, resulting in ultra-tender layers that absorb the creamy sauce perfectly.
  • Easy meal prep: The crock pot frees up your oven and stovetop, especially useful when preparing multiple dishes for family meals or gatherings.
  • Flavor infusion: Slow cooking melds the cheese, cream, and seasoning flavors deeply into the potatoes for a rich, comforting taste.

Ingredients for Perfect Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes

To prepare the best crock pot scalloped potatoes, gather these simple ingredients:

  • 4 to 5 medium-sized potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work well)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and gruyere)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder or finely chopped onions (optional)
  • Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes

Follow these steps to achieve creamy, melt-in-your-mouth scalloped potatoes in your crock pot:

1. Prepare Your Potatoes

Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Then, slice them evenly into thin rounds about 1/8-inch thick. Using a mandoline slicer can help create uniform slices, which ensures even cooking.

2. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, milk, melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Stir until well mixed. Then, fold in half of your shredded cheese. This sauce will slowly infuse into the potatoes during cooking.

3. Layer the Potatoes and Sauce

Lightly grease the inside of your crock pot slow cooker with butter. Begin layering the potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the pot. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, then repeat layers, finishing with a layer of potatoes topped with the remaining shredded cheese.

4. Cook Low and Slow

Cover and set your crock pot to low heat. Allow the scalloped potatoes to cook for 6 to 7 hours. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as slow cookers rely on trapped heat and moisture. The potatoes should become tender and the sauce thick and bubbly.

5. Final Touches and Serving

Once cooked, give the potatoes a gentle stir to mix the layers slightly. If desired, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and extra aroma. Serve as a delicious side with your crock pot pot roast, bbq pulled pork crock pot, or any slow cooker chicken recipes.

Tips for the Best Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes

  • Potato choice matters: Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape well and offer a buttery flavor, while Russets become creamier and softer.
  • Use full-fat dairy: Heavy cream and whole milk create a richer sauce that clings better to the potatoes.
  • Cheese variety: Sharp cheddar is classic, but mixing in gouda, mozzarella, or gruyere can add depth.
  • Prep ahead: Assemble your scalloped potatoes in the crock pot insert the night before and store in the fridge to save time on busy days.
  • Check doneness: Potatoes should be fork-tender and sauce thickened. If not fully cooked by the time recommended, continue slow cooking and check every 30 minutes.

Pairing Ideas for Your Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes make an excellent side dish for many crock pot meals. Here are some pairing ideas:

  • Crock pot pot roast: The creamy potatoes soak up the savory gravy, creating a comforting classic dinner.
  • Pulled pork crock pot: Use scalloped potatoes to balance the smoky, tangy flavors of pulled pork.
  • Crock pot chicken recipes: Pair with creamy chicken and rice or chicken and dumplings for a hearty meal.
  • Slow cooker vegetable stew: The rich potatoes complement the wholesome vegetable flavors.

By mastering this creamy crock pot scalloped potatoes recipe, you add a versatile, crowd-pleasing side to your slow cooker meal arsenal. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, these slow cooker scalloped potatoes deliver unbeatable comfort and flavor every time.