Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Introduction
Experience the ultimate comfort food with these luxuriously creamy slow cooker scalloped potatoes. This hands-off approach to a classic dish delivers perfectly tender layers of potatoes swimming in a rich, cheesy sauce. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, it’s a simple way to elevate your potato game.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and sliced ¼-inch thick
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 2½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- Cooking spray
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Spray your slow cooker insert generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Step 3: Arrange one-third of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker, overlapping slightly.
- Step 4: Sprinkle one-third of both the parmesan and cheddar cheeses over the potatoes.
- Step 5: Pour one-third of the cream mixture evenly on top of the cheeses and potatoes.
- Step 6: Repeat the layering process two more times with the remaining potatoes, cheeses, and cream mixture.
- Step 7: Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Step 8: Let the scalloped potatoes stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture and slightly buttery flavor.
- Substitute vegetable broth to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle smoky or spicy kick.
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter before layering.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Avoid reheating on high heat to keep the potatoes creamy and prevent drying out.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to swap cheddar or parmesan with mozzarella, Gruyère, or a cheese blend to suit your taste preferences. Just keep the quantity similar for best results.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on if you prefer a more rustic dish with added nutrients and texture.
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Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this creamy and cheesy Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes recipe. Layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes are slow-cooked to tender perfection in a rich sauce of heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic, and two kinds of cheese, providing a hands-off, hassle-free way to enjoy this classic dish. Garnished with fresh parsley, it’s a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and sliced ¼-inch thick
Sauce and Cheese
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 2½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Other
- Cooking spray
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray your slow cooker insert generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking, ensuring easy cleanup and preventing the potatoes from sticking during cooking.
- Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well blended to create a flavorful, creamy base for the potatoes.
- Create the First Layer: Arrange one-third of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker, slightly overlapping them to form an even layer.
- Add Cheese and Sauce: Sprinkle one-third of both the parmesan and cheddar cheeses evenly over the potatoes, then pour one-third of the cream mixture on top to moisten the layer.
- Complete the Layers: Repeat the layering process two more times with the remaining potatoes, cheeses, and cream mixture to build multiple cheesy layers.
- Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Final Touch: Let the scalloped potatoes stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow the dish to set. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- For best results, slice potatoes uniformly about ¼-inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make the dish suitable for vegetarians.
- The resting time after cooking helps the sauce thicken and makes the dish easier to serve.
- Variations can include adding cooked bacon or caramelized onions between layers for extra flavor.
- Make sure to cook on high setting for the recommended time; slow setting may require 6-7 hours for tenderness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: scalloped potatoes, slow cooker potatoes, creamy potato casserole, easy potato recipe, comfort food side dish, cheesy potatoes
