Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes

There’s something magical about a dish that simmers all day, filling your kitchen with the rich aroma of butter, garlic, and melted cheese. Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes are that kind of magic — creamy, comforting, and packed with soft, tender layers that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re prepping for a big holiday meal or just craving something cozy for a weeknight dinner, this recipe never disappoints.

Behind the Recipe

This dish came to life on a snowy Sunday afternoon when the oven was busy with other dishes, and the slow cooker came to the rescue. The result? A bubbling, golden masterpiece with tender potato slices soaking in a rich, cheesy sauce. Over the years, it’s become a go-to comfort food staple in my home — requested at every gathering, holiday, and even on the random rainy day when nothing but potatoes and cheese will do.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Scalloped potatoes have been around for generations, originating from traditional European casseroles that focused on layering sliced potatoes with cream and cheese. The “crockpot” twist modernizes the method, allowing for hands-off cooking and freeing up the oven for other dishes. What makes this version special is how the low, slow heat transforms basic ingredients into a luscious, hearty dish.

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes

Let’s be honest — potatoes and cheese are a match made in comfort food heaven.

Versatile: Pair them with roast meat, grilled veggies, or enjoy as a stand-alone comfort dish.

Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients that stretch to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and the slow cooker does all the work for you.

Customizable: Add in extras like cooked bacon, herbs, or different cheeses to change it up.

Crowd-Pleasing: Rich, cheesy, and golden — everyone goes back for seconds.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep everything ahead and set it to cook when you need it.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat easily and tastes just as amazing the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Scalloped potatoes are easy, but a few tricks take them from good to unforgettable.

• Slice potatoes thin and uniform for even cooking.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and smoother sauce.
• Layer cheese between the potatoes, not just on top.
• Don’t skip pre-cooking the roux — it ensures a creamy sauce that clings.
• Let the dish rest before serving so the sauce thickens slightly.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Keep it simple with these basic kitchen heroes:

Mandoline or Sharp Knife: For evenly thin potato slices.

Saucepan: To make the creamy cheese sauce.

Whisk: For a lump-free roux and smooth sauce.

Slow Cooker: The key to effortless, all-day cooking.

Serving Spoon: To scoop up those creamy, cheesy layers.

Ingredients in Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes

Each ingredient works together to create layers of flavor and texture.

1. Russet Potatoes: 6 medium, peeled and thinly sliced. Their starchiness makes them ideal for soaking up the sauce.
2. Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded. Adds bold, tangy flavor and melts beautifully.
3. Whole Milk: 1 1/2 cups. Creamy base for the cheese sauce.
4. Butter: 4 tablespoons. Adds richness and helps form the roux.
5. Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Infuses the sauce with warmth.
6. Onion: 1 small, finely chopped. Adds sweetness and depth.
7. All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons. Thickens the sauce to coat every bite.
8. Salt: 1 teaspoon. Brings out all the flavors.
9. Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon. Adds a subtle kick.
10. Green Onions (for garnish): 2 tablespoons, chopped. Adds freshness and color.

Ingredient Substitutions

Running low on something? Try these easy swaps.

Russet Potatoes: Yukon Golds for a creamier finish.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Swiss, mozzarella, or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.

Whole Milk: Half-and-half or plant-based milk for dietary needs.

Butter: Olive oil or dairy-free alternatives work too.

All-Purpose Flour: Cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Ingredient Spotlight

Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This is what gives the dish its bold, savory depth and that glorious melt factor.

Russet Potatoes: High in starch, they absorb the sauce without turning mushy, holding their shape beautifully.

Instructions for Making Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes

Let’s get cozy and build this comfort food dream step by step.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   No preheating needed, just set your slow cooker to low or high depending on your schedule.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, sauté until soft. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese, salt, and pepper until melted.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Grease the insert of your slow cooker with butter or non-stick spray.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Layer half of the potato slices in the slow cooker. Pour half the cheese sauce over. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce, spreading evenly.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Finishing Touches:
   If desired, transfer to an oven-safe dish and broil for 3–5 minutes to brown the top.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Garnish with chopped green onions. Serve warm and watch it disappear.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

Creamy, tender, and just the right amount of gooey, every bite of these scalloped potatoes is comfort incarnate. The sauce clings to each layer, rich and cheesy, with a soft bite of potato underneath. A hint of garlic and onion gives the flavor depth without overpowering.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few extra tricks to help your dish shine:

• Use room temperature milk to avoid a grainy sauce.
• Stir sauce constantly to prevent lumps.
• Don’t overcook — potatoes should be tender, not falling apart.
• Want extra richness? Stir in a splash of cream at the end.

What to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls for the perfect scalloped potatoes:

• Thick slices: Take too long to cook and don’t layer well.
• Pre-shredded cheese: Often coated in starches that prevent melting smoothly.
• Skipping the roux step: Leads to a runny or separated sauce.
• Lifting the lid too often: Interrupts the cooking temperature and adds time.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 360

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours (on low)
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prep this dish a day ahead by slicing the potatoes and making the cheese sauce, storing them separately. Assemble in the morning and cook as needed. Leftovers last up to 4 days in the fridge and can be frozen for up to a month. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

How to Serve Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes

Serve warm straight from the slow cooker or transfer to a pretty baking dish. They pair beautifully with ham, turkey, roasted veggies, or even grilled tofu. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra cheese right before serving elevates the dish even more.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t let a single scoop go to waste — here’s what you can do:

• Fry slices into crispy potato cakes for breakfast.
• Chop and add to a cheesy omelet or frittata.
• Bake leftovers with breadcrumbs for a new take on a casserole.

Additional Tips

Use full-fat dairy for the creamiest texture. Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a deeper, earthy flavor. And always taste the cheese sauce before layering — this is where most of the seasoning lives.

Make It a Showstopper

For serving at gatherings, finish under the broiler for a bubbly, browned top. Garnish with green onions or chives and serve in a beautiful stoneware dish for that rustic charm.

Variations to Try

• Bacon & Cheddar: Mix in cooked bacon for a smoky punch.
• Garlic Herb: Add chopped thyme and rosemary for a herby twist.
• Broccoli & Cheese: Add small broccoli florets for color and crunch.
• Loaded Potato Style: Top with sour cream and chives before serving.
• Vegan Swap: Use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and butter alternatives.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

A1: Yes, but they’ll cook a bit faster, so check for doneness early.

Q2: What’s the best cheese to use?

A2: Sharp cheddar is classic, but Gruyère or a mix of cheeses works great too.

Q3: Can I bake it instead?

A3: Absolutely! Layer in a casserole dish and bake at 350°F for 60–75 minutes.

Q4: How can I make it gluten-free?

A4: Use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour.

Q5: Can I make it without onions?

A5: Yes, but they add a lot of flavor. Try shallots or onion powder instead.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?

A6: In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Q7: Can I freeze it?

A7: Yes. Cool completely, then freeze individual portions.

Q8: My sauce separated — why?

A8: It may not have thickened enough before layering. Be sure to cook the roux well.

Q9: Can I cook this on high instead?

A9: Yes, but reduce the cook time to about 3–4 hours.

Q10: How thin should I slice the potatoes?

A10: Aim for 1/8 inch thick for best results.

Conclusion

Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes are that timeless, satisfying comfort dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. Rich, cheesy, and perfectly tender, they’re the kind of side that easily becomes the star of the show. Trust me, once you try this version, you’ll never go back to oven-only again.

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