Let’s talk comfort food. What is the kind of comfort food that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a blanket? Warm blankets in a chilly evening. I’m talking about cheesy, creamy, melt-in-Slow cooker scalloped potatoes. Slow Cooker.Is this a recipe for scalloped potatoes? Think of it as the easy, breezy cousin of traditional scalloped potatoes, but with all the flavor. What is the best flavor If you love mac and cheese, you’re going to love these!
What is a slow cooker scalloped potato?
Slow cooker scalloped potatoes are basically sliced potatoes layered with a creamy, cheesy sauce and then cooked low and slow in a slow cooker (or crock pot, whatever you prefer to call it!). Think of it as a cheesy potato casserole, but the slow cooker does all the work! It’s essentially a super simple, super satisfying side dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. The potatoes become incredibly tender, and the sauce thickens into a luscious, cheesy dream. It’s honestly one of those recipes where you just dump everything in and let the magic happen. And let me tell you, the “magic” tastes incredible. My family devours this every single time I make it, and I bet yours will too!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for these things.Slow cooker scalloped potatoes. Cooking Instructions. First and foremost, the flavor is simply divine. The combination of creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and melted cheese is just irresistible. It’s the ultimate comfort food. What I love most is how ridiculously easy this recipe is. Seriously, you just slice the potatoes, mix the sauce ingredients, layer everything in the slow cooker, and let it cook. Minimal prep, maximum flavor – that’s my kind of recipe! Plus, it’s incredibly budget-friendly. Potatoes are cheap, and you probably already have most of the other ingredients in your pantry and fridge.
And let’s not forget about versatility!What are scallopedWhat are the best side dishes to serve with anything? What are some great side dishes to serve with ham, chicken, beef, or even a salad? I’ve even been known to eat a bowl of them as my main course. What is the best comfort food to eat when you’re craving something comforting but don’t know where to start? Do you like to spend hours in the kitchen? It reminds me a bit of my mom’s au gratin potatoes, but honestly, I think this version is even better. Is this a good recipe for potlucks? Is this a must have in your repertoire?
How do I make a slow cooker scalloped potato?
Quick Overview
Making slow cooker scalloped potatoes is as simple as slice, mix, and slow cook! You just layer thinly sliced potatoes with a creamy cheese sauce and let the slow cooker work its magic. The best part? It frees up your oven for other dishes, making it perfect for holidays or big family dinners. No need to babysit – just set it and forget it! The result is perfectly tender potatoes in a rich and flavorful sauce that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes:
* 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (I prefer Yucon Gold because they get super sweet and juicy). Is it true that Russets work?
* 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
* 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk (I’ve even used almond milk in a pinch, and it works great!)
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, in my opinion)
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika
What are the Step by
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease your slow cooker with cooking spray. This prevents the potatoes from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. I usually use a 6-quart slow cooker, but a slightly larger one will work too. Make sure it’s nice and clean before you get started! No one wants yesterday’s chili flavors mingling with their What are scalloped!
Step 2: Layer the Potatoes and Onions
Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by another layer. Repeat the layers until all the potatoes and onions are used. I like to slightly overlap the potato slices to ensure even cooking. This part can be a little tedious, but trust me, it’s worth it!
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until there are no lumps. Stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This is where you can adjust the seasoning to your liking. I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick!
Step 4: Pour the Sauce Over the Potatoes
How do you spread the cheese sauce over potatoes and onions? Make sure the sauce covers all the potatoes. If needed, gently press down on the potatoes to help them submerge in the sauce. How do you cook a chicken?
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. What are some of the best ways to cook in a slow cooker? When potatoes are pierced with a fork, they are done.
Step 6: Broil (Optional)
If you want a golden-brown, bubbly top, remove the lid from the slow cooker and broil for a few minutes until the top is lightly browned. Watch it carefully to prevent burning! This step is totally optional, but it does add a nice visual appeal.
Step 7: Let Rest and Serve
Let the What are scallopedLet the sauce rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows for thickening a bit. I like to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
What to Serve It With
These slow cooker scalloped potatoesWhat are some of the most versatile dishes to serve? I’ve found they’re the perfect crowd-pleaser!
What is the best holiday dinner?Serve with a glazed ham or roasted turkey. The creamy potatoes complement the savory meat perfectly.
For a Weeknight Meal: Pair with grilled chicken, baked salmon, or even a simple veggie burger. They’re also great with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad.
For a Potluck: Bring a slow cooker full of these potatoes to your next potluck or gathering. They’re always a hit and require minimal effort on your part.
For a Cozy Night In: Sometimes, I just make these potatoes as a comfort food treat on a cold night. They’re delicious on their own or with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
My family loves these with a simple roasted chicken and some steamed broccoli. It’s a complete meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. And, honestly, sometimes I just eat them straight out of the slow cooker with a spoon – no judgment!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make these slow cooker scalloped potatoes absolutely perfect. Here are some of my top tips:
Potato Prep: Slice the potatoes thinly and evenly for consistent cooking. A mandoline slicer can be a lifesaver for this step. If you don’t have one, just take your time and try to get the slices as uniform as possible. Also, make sure to peel them – the skins can make the potatoes a bit tough.
Cheese Choice: Use a good quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. I prefer sharp cheddar, but mild or medium cheddar will also work. You can even use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile. Gruyere or Parmesan would be delicious additions!
Sauce Consistency: Make sure the cheese sauce is smooth and lump-free before pouring it over the potatoes. Whisk the butter and flour together thoroughly to create a roux, then gradually whisk in the milk. If you do get lumps, you can strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve.
Layering Technique: Layer the potatoes and onions evenly in the slow cooker to ensure that everything cooks properly. Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker – if necessary, use two smaller slow cookers or reduce the recipe.
Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time, as slow cookers can vary. The potatoes are done when they are easily pierced with a fork. If they’re still firm, continue cooking for a bit longer. If the sauce starts to get too thick, you can add a splash of milk to thin it out.
Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some cooked bacon or ham to the layers. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for a warm, comforting flavor.
I’ve also found that using room-temperature milk helps the sauce come together more smoothly. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses and seasonings to customize the recipe to your liking! The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These slow cooker scalloped potatoes are great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers. Here’s how to do it:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving them at room temperature for more than two hours, as bacteria can start to grow.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They’re just as delicious reheated!
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the scalloped potatoes. Let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, you can microwave them, bake them in the oven, or even reheat them in the slow cooker. If microwaving, heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. To reheat in the oven, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating in the slow cooker, cook on low for a few hours until heated through.
I’ve found that adding a little extra milk or cheese when reheating helps to restore the creamy texture. And if you’re freezing them, it’s best to do so before broiling, as the topping can get a bit soggy after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my foolproof recipe for slow cooker scalloped potatoes! I truly hope you give this recipe a try. It’s a family favorite for a reason: it’s incredibly easy, unbelievably delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the slow cooker makes it perfect for busy weeknights or holidays when you need to free up your oven. The creamy, cheesy, potato-y goodness is simply irresistible. If you’re a fan of easy comfort food, then this is one recipe that I can’t recommend enough! If you enjoyed this, you might also like my recipe for Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese – another family favorite that’s just as simple and satisfying.
Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how your slow cooker scalloped potatoes turn out. Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know if you made any variations. I love hearing about your culinary adventures! And if you loved this recipe, don’t forget to give it a star rating. Enjoy!
