The Creamiest Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Ever

Slow cooker scalloped potatoes deliver incredible comfort without kitchen stress.

Rich layers of creamy goodness melt together effortlessly in this convenient dish.

Tender potato slices absorb savory cream and subtle seasonings while cooking low and slow.

Minimal preparation means maximum flavor with surprisingly little effort.

Cheese creates golden, bubbling surfaces that promise delectable results every single time.

Home cooks appreciate how this method simplifies traditional potato side dishes.

You can achieve restaurant-quality results with simple ingredients and one reliable appliance.

Explore this recipe for a guaranteed crowd-pleasing potato experience.

What to Serve with Scalloped Potatoes

• Elevate with Robust Red Wine: Pair this creamy scalloped potato dish with a medium-bodied red wine like pinot noir, which cuts through the richness and complements the cheesy depth.
• Serve with Tangy Green Salad: Balance the heavy potato casserole with a crisp, light salad featuring arugula, lemon vinaigrette, and fresh herbs to provide a refreshing contrast.
• Match with Herb-Roasted Protein: Complete the meal with roasted chicken or pork tenderloin seasoned with rosemary and thyme, which echoes the herbal notes in the potato dish and creates a harmonious flavor profile.
• Cool Down with Crisp White Beer: Enjoy a refreshing wheat beer or pilsner alongside the meal, its light carbonation and clean finish will cleanse the palate between rich potato bites.

Scalloped Potato Variations for Every Craving

• Rustic Bacon Blast: Crisp and crumble bacon strips, then layer between potato slices for a smoky, salty enhancement. Mix chopped bacon into the cheese sauce for extra depth of flavor.
• Herb Garden Edition: Replace thyme with fresh rosemary, chives, and parsley. Incorporate finely chopped herbs directly into the cheese sauce and sprinkle additional herbs on top before serving for a fresh, aromatic profile.
• Spicy Pepper Kick: Add diced jalapeños or green chiles between potato layers. Mix cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the cheese sauce for a warming heat that complements the creamy potatoes.
• Mediterranean Style: Swap cheddar for crumbled feta cheese. Include sliced sun-dried tomatoes and chopped spinach between layers. Season with oregano and a touch of garlic for a Mediterranean-inspired variation.

Your Slow Cooker Scalloped Potato FAQs

• Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

Yes! While cheddar works great, you can substitute with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for different flavor profiles.

• How do I prevent my potatoes from turning brown before cooking?

Slice potatoes and immediately place them in cold water with a little lemon juice to prevent oxidation and browning before layering in the slow cooker.

• Is it necessary to use cream of chicken soup?

The soup adds richness and depth of flavor, but you can replace it with cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade white sauce if preferred.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the layers the night before, refrigerate, and start cooking the next day. Just add 30-45 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold ingredients.

Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Made Easy

• The slow cooker method transforms ordinary potatoes into a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth dish with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
• Rich cheddar cheese sauce and additional cheese topping create a decadent, gooey texture that cheese lovers will absolutely adore.
• This recipe requires minimal prep and cooking supervision, making it ideal for busy home cooks who want a delicious side dish without constant attention.
• Warmth, creaminess, and cheesy goodness combine to deliver the ultimate comfort meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Everything You Need for Scalloped Potatoes

• Potatoes, Sliced: Starchy base that creates the classic scalloped texture, best with waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes.
• Onions: Adds sweet and savory flavor depth, yellow or white onions work perfectly.

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and creamy cheese providing rich flavor and melty texture, sharp varieties add more intensity.
• Heavy Cream: Provides richness and helps create smooth, silky sauce, full-fat version recommended.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds creamy consistency and subtle flavor background, low-sodium versions are great for controlling salt.

• Garlic Powder: Gives subtle garlic flavor without raw garlic texture.
• Thyme: Adds earthy and slightly minty herb notes, dried thyme works best in slow cooker recipes.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor profile, kosher or sea salt recommended.
• Black Pepper: Provides subtle heat and depth, freshly ground pepper is more flavorful.
• Butter: Helps sauté onions and adds richness, unsalted butter preferred for better salt control.
• Non-Stick Spray: Ensures easy slow cooker release and prevents sticking.

Crockpot Instructions for Creamy Potato Layers

Step 1: Sauté Fragrant Onions

Heat butter in a skillet over medium temperature. Add chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. The onions should look slightly golden and release a sweet aroma.

Step 2: Create Creamy Cheese Mixture

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Cream of chicken soup
• Heavy cream
• Garlic powder
• Dried thyme
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk everything together until the mixture looks smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Prepare Slow Cooker Base

Spray the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Arrange the first layer of thinly sliced potatoes across the bottom. Sprinkle with salt to enhance the flavor.

Step 4: Build Delicious Layers

Spread the sautéed onions evenly over the potato layer. Pour half of the cheese mixture on top, ensuring complete coverage. Add the remaining potato slices and season with additional salt.

Step 5: Complete the Layering

Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the potatoes. Drizzle heavy cream across the top to create extra richness and moisture.

Step 6: Absorb Excess Moisture

Place two layers of paper towels over the slow cooker opening. Secure the lid carefully, making sure the paper towels do not touch the potatoes. This technique helps prevent excess liquid accumulation.

Step 7: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cook on high setting for 4-5 hours or on low setting for 7-8 hours. Around 2.5 hours into cooking, sprinkle additional cheese on top.

Step 8: Final Cheese Topping

Continue cooking until potatoes become tender and cheese melts completely. The top should look golden and slightly crispy.

Serving Tip: Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and flavors to meld together.

Tips for Creamy, Perfectly Cooked Potatoes

• Slice Potatoes Evenly: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to cut potatoes into uniform 1/4-inch thick slices, ensuring consistent cooking and texture throughout the dish.
• Prevent Potato Browning: Soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat dry completely before layering to maintain a creamy white appearance.
• Enhance Flavor Depth: Caramelize onions slightly longer for a richer, sweeter taste that adds complexity to the cheese sauce and overall potato dish.
• Control Moisture Carefully: The paper towel trick is crucial – it absorbs excess moisture, preventing soggy potatoes and ensuring a perfectly creamy, not watery, final result.
• Cheese Melting Technique: Add extra cheese during the last hour of cooking to create a golden, bubbly top that looks and tastes absolutely delicious.

Reheat and Store These Potatoes Like a Pro

• Refrigerate: Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Reheat in Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place potatoes in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Add a splash of cream to restore moisture if needed.
• Microwave Option: Transfer a single serving to a microwave-safe dish. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Stop when potatoes are steaming hot and creamy throughout.

Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

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4.5 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy slow cooker scalloped potatoes deliver comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen. Rich layers of tender potatoes, melted cheese, and savory cream promise a delightful side dish that warms hearts and satisfies hungry diners.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 3 pounds Yukon gold potatoes or red-skinned potatoes (thinly sliced)
• 1 ½ cups (340 grams) shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 10.5 ounces (298 grams) condensed cream of chicken soup (1 can)

Dairy and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups (360 milliliters) heavy whipping cream (divided)
• 1 tablespoon (14 grams) butter
• ½ large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• ¾ teaspoon salt (divided, or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Caramelize onions in a skillet with melted butter, gently cooking until they turn translucent and develop a soft, golden edge, which should take approximately 4-5 minutes.
2. Craft a velvety cheese sauce by whisking together cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, heavy cream, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper until the mixture becomes smooth and fully incorporated.
3. Prepare the slow cooker by generously coating the interior with non-stick spray, then create the first potato layer, carefully arranging half of the sliced potatoes and seasoning with a light sprinkle of salt.
4. Distribute the sautéed onions evenly across the potato foundation, ensuring complete coverage, then generously drench the layer with half of the prepared cheese sauce.
5. Construct the second potato tier by laying the remaining slices atop the first layer, seasoning again with salt, and thoroughly drenching with the remaining cheese sauce and an additional stream of heavy cream.
6. Strategically place paper towels across the slow cooker’s surface to capture excess moisture, preventing watery potatoes while maintaining optimal cooking conditions.
7. Select your preferred cooking tempo: high heat for 4-5 hours or low heat for 7-8 hours, allowing the potatoes to tenderize and flavors to meld.
8. Approximately midway through cooking, crown the dish with the remaining cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt and create a golden, bubbling surface.
9. Confirm doneness by testing potato tenderness and ensuring the cheese has transformed into a luxurious, molten blanket.

Notes

• Prep Ahead: Slice potatoes and chop onions in advance to reduce day-of cooking time and make the process smoother.
• Moisture Management: Paper towels under the lid are crucial for preventing watery potatoes by absorbing excess condensation during slow cooking.
• Cheese Strategy: Add extra cheese halfway through cooking to ensure a perfectly melted, golden-brown topping without overcooking.
• Seasoning Tip: Layering salt between potato layers helps distribute flavor evenly throughout the dish.
• Flexibility Factor: This recipe adapts well to low or high slow cooker settings, making it convenient for different schedules and meal planning.
• Creamy Texture Secret: The combination of heavy cream and cheese sauce creates a rich, luxurious consistency that makes these scalloped potatoes irresistibly good.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 hours
• Category: Dinner, Side Dish
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 406
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 548mg
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 89mg