Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a comforting and convenient dish that’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or holidays when oven space is limited. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying side dish with minimal effort. Scalloped potatoes, also known as potatoes au gratin when cheese is added, are a classic dish with European origins, adapted in American cuisine for slow cookers.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes:
- 6 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 large onion, diced
- 6 slices thick-cut smoky bacon, uncooked and chopped (optional)
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or substitute cream of celery)
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Method of Preparation
Prepare Ingredients:
Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Dice the onion and chop the bacon (if using). Shred the cheddar cheese.
Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Spray a 6-quart or larger slow cooker with cooking spray. Add 1/3 of the potatoes to the bottom of the crock, overlapping evenly. Sprinkle with 1/3 each of the pepper, garlic powder, onion, bacon (if using), and cheese, in that order. Repeat the layers twice more.
Add Creamy Sauce:
Mix the cream of chicken soup and milk together, then pour over the top of the potatoes. For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk. Alternatively, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, thyme, and nutmeg and pour over the layered potatoes.
Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until potatoes are fork-tender. Cooking on high for 3-4 hours may also work.
Melt Cheese (Optional):
Sprinkle additional cheese on top of the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of cooking time.
Serve:
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
- Slicing Potatoes: Use a mandoline or slicer to ensure potatoes are uniformly thin. This helps them cook evenly.
- Preventing Sticking: Generously grease the slow cooker to prevent sticking.
- Overcooking: Check the potatoes periodically to avoid overcooking. They should be fork-tender but not mushy.
- Choosing Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well. Russets should be peeled, while Yukon Gold potatoes can be left unpeeled for added texture.
- Adding Ham: Add diced ham for a more substantial dish.
Serving Tips
Serve slow cooker scalloped potatoes as a side dish with ham, roasted chicken, or beef. They are also a great addition to holiday meals like Easter or Christmas.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Potatoes: Provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium.
- Dairy (Milk, Cheese, Cream): Excellent sources of calcium and protein.
- Garlic and Onion: Contain antioxidants and compounds that may support immune function.
Why Everyone Loves This Dish
Slow cooker cheesy scalloped potatoes are loved for their creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and ease of preparation. The slow cooker does most of the work, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Interesting Facts
- Scalloped potatoes are a retro classic, perfect for potlucks and family dinners.
- Using a slow cooker frees up oven space when preparing large meals.
- Variations include adding ham, different types of cheese (like Gruyere), or various herbs and spices.
Summarized Recipe
- Prepare ingredients: Slice potatoes, dice onion, chop bacon (optional), shred cheese.
- Layer potatoes, seasonings, bacon, and cheese in a greased slow cooker.
- Mix cream of chicken soup (or heavy cream with seasonings) and pour over the layers.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until potatoes are tender.
- Top with extra cheese during the last few minutes (optional).
- Serve hot.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and effortless dish for any occasion!
