Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Introduction

Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a comforting, creamy side dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender potatoes, a rich, cheesy sauce, and a touch of seasoning makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Using a slow cooker not only simplifies the process but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully while freeing up your oven for other dishes. Whether served at holiday gatherings, family dinners, or potlucks, these cheesy scalloped potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit.

I remember making this dish for a family get-together. The smell of cheesy goodness filled the house, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in. The best thing about this recipe is how hands-off it is—just layer the potatoes, pour the sauce, and let the slow cooker do the rest. You’ll end up with perfectly tender, flavorful potatoes every time.

This dish is easy to customize, too. Add some cooked bacon for a smoky twist, or sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a pop of freshness. You can even experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste—sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend of both works beautifully. Whatever you choose, these Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes will become a go-to favorite!

Perfect for:

• Holiday meals
• Potlucks
• Sunday dinners
• Comfort food cravings
• Make-ahead side dishes

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Here’s why Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes will become your go-to side dish:

• Creamy and Cheesy: Every bite is rich and cheesy, thanks to a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy sauce.
• Hands-Free Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to focus on other tasks.
• Tender Potatoes: Slow cooking ensures the potatoes are perfectly tender without turning mushy.
• Customizable: Add ham, bacon, or different cheeses to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual family meals to elegant holiday dinners, these potatoes fit any menu.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including slow cooking)
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4 hours on high or 6-7 hours on low
• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 28g, Fat: 13g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

• 3 pounds Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes: Both varieties are starchy enough to create a creamy texture. Yukon Golds add a buttery flavor, while russets are extra soft.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the dish its rich, cheesy flavor. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan.
• Whole Milk and Chicken Broth: These form the base of the creamy sauce. Substitute with heavy cream for an even richer result.
• Garlic and Onion: Add depth of flavor and complement the cheesy richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Sauce:

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Add the Liquid: Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the Cheese and Seasonings: Remove from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Assemble the Potatoes in the Slow Cooker:

5. Layer the Potatoes: Grease the inside of your slow cooker. Add a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by a portion of the cheese sauce. Repeat the layers until all the potatoes and sauce are used, finishing with a layer of sauce.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese on top.
7. Cook: Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6-7 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with many main courses:

• With Roasts: Serve alongside roast chicken, beef, or pork for a hearty meal.
• With Holiday Favorites: These potatoes are a perfect addition to holiday spreads featuring ham, turkey, or lamb.
• As a Comfort Food Meal: Pair with a green vegetable like broccoli or green beans and a simple salad for a comforting meal.
• With Grilled Meats: Balance out grilled meats with the rich, cheesy goodness of these potatoes.

Additional Tips for Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Here are some tips to make your Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes the best they can be:

• Use a Mandoline: For even, thin slices of potatoes, use a mandoline slicer.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent the potatoes from becoming too soft.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s texture. Shred your own for the creamiest result.
• Try Different Cheeses: Mix in Gruyère, fontina, or mozzarella for added flavor.
• Add a Protein: Turn this side dish into a main meal by adding cooked ham, bacon, or chicken.
• Check for Doneness: Potatoes should be fork-tender when done.
• Reheat Gently: If reheating leftovers, do so on low heat to avoid breaking the sauce.

Recipe Variations for Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Here are 10 variations you can try for Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

• Cheddar and Gruyère Potatoes: Swap half of the cheddar for Gruyère for a nutty, rich flavor.
• Bacon Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Add cooked, crumbled bacon between the layers for a smoky twist.
• Garlic Parmesan Potatoes: Use Parmesan cheese and extra garlic for an Italian-inspired version.
• Ham and Cheese Potatoes: Layer in diced ham for a complete meal in one dish.
• Jalapeño Cheddar Potatoes: Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Broccoli Cheddar Potatoes: Mix in steamed broccoli for a veggie-packed variation.
• Mexican-Inspired Potatoes: Use pepper jack cheese and sprinkle with cilantro and green onions.
• French Onion Potatoes: Add caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese.
• Vegan Scalloped Potatoes: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
• Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: Top with sour cream, bacon bits, and green onions for a loaded baked potato twist.

Freezing and Storage for Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Freezing: These potatoes freeze well. Cool completely, then store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Special Equipment for Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Here are some tools to make preparing your Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes easier:

• Mandoline Slicer: For thin, even potato slices.
• Slow Cooker: The key to this recipe’s ease and success.
• Whisk: To ensure a smooth cheese sauce.
• Cheese Grater: For shredding cheese at home.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements.
• Mixing Bowls: For preparing the cheese sauce.
• Rubber Spatula: To scrape out every bit of cheesy goodness from the bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions for Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

1. Can I use a different type of potato?
   Yes, Yukon Golds and russets work best, but red potatoes or fingerlings can also be used for a firmer texture.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare and assemble everything the day before, then refrigerate and cook it the next day.
3. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
   Yes, but shredding your own cheese will give you a smoother sauce.
4. How do I know when the potatoes are done?
   The potatoes should be fork-tender and the cheese sauce thick and bubbly.
5. Can I cook it on the stovetop?
   Yes, but it requires more attention. Use a large pot and simmer on low until the potatoes are tender.

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Conclusion

Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, they’re easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply craving something comforting, these potatoes are sure to steal the spotlight.

The magic of the slow cooker ensures the potatoes turn out tender and perfectly coated in a rich, cheesy sauce every time. Serve them alongside your favorite mains, and watch as they quickly become the most requested dish at your table.

I’d love to see how your Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes turn out! Share a photo on social media and tag me—I can’t wait to see your cheesy masterpiece. Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!