As I stepped into the kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of creamy, slow-cooked goodness enveloped me—the perfect invitation for a gathering of family and friends. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cheesy Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes, a dish that has quickly become a go-to favorite during holiday feasts. This crowd-pleaser offers the irresistible combination of creamy texture and cheesy layers, ensuring that it stands out as a comforting side. The beauty of this recipe lies in its hands-off approach; while the Crockpot works its magic, you can dedicate your time to other holiday preparations. Plus, who can resist the allure of a rich, velvety dish that harmonizes beautifully with savory meats? Get ready to make your kitchen the heart of the celebration—stay tuned to discover how to whip up this delightful dish! Why Are Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes Perfect? Effortless Preparation: Simply layer your ingredients and let your Crockpot do the magic while you enjoy other holiday tasks. Creamy Indulgence: The blend of heavy cream and cheeses creates a luxurious sauce that elevates this dish to new heights. Crowd Favorite: Rich and cheesy, these potatoes are sure to impress guests at any gathering, making them an ideal side for festive meals. Versatile Pairing: Whether served with ham or as a standalone dish, they complement a variety of main courses effortlessly. Time-Saving Magic: Enjoy the convenience of a slow cooker, just like with my Crockpot Cheese Tortellini or Crockpot Beef Barley recipes, allowing you to focus on what you love most—spending time with family and friends. Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients For the Creamy Sauce • Heavy Cream or Half and Half – Provides richness and creaminess to the sauce. Substitution: Use whole milk for a lighter version, but note it may be less creamy. • Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Adds flavor and moisture to the dish. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. • Paprika (Pinch) – Enhances flavor with a subtle smokiness. No substitution needed, but it can be omitted if desired. • Ground Nutmeg (1/4 tsp) – Brightens flavor and adds warmth. Omit if you dislike nutmeg. • Fresh Thyme Leaves (2 Tbsp, plus more for garnish) – Introduces a fresh, herbal note. Substitution: Use dried thyme, reducing to 1 Tbsp. • Freshly Chopped Rosemary (2 Tbsp, plus more for garnish) – Adds aromatic flavor. Substitution: Omit for a milder taste. • Garlic Powder (2 tsp) – Contributes depth of flavor. Fresh garlic can be used; adjust quantity to taste. For the Potatoes • Russet Potatoes (3 lbs, sliced 1/4″ thick) – The base of the dish, providing structure. Use Yukon gold for a creamier texture. For the Cheese Layers • Freshly Grated Parmesan (1/2 cup) – Adds a salty, nutty element. Use pecorino for a sharper flavor. • Shredded Gruyère (2 1/2 cups) – Provides a rich, melty texture. Substitution: Use mozzarella for a milder cheese or cheddar for a sharper taste. Seasoning • Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors. Adjust to taste. • Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds warmth and complexity. Adjust to taste. Crockpot scalloped potatoes are not just a dish; they’re a celebration on a plate! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes Step 1: Prep Potatoes Start by washing and peeling 3 lbs of russet potatoes, then slice them into 1/4″ thick rounds. This ensures even cooking and a lovely texture. Arrange the slices in a bowl to prevent browning while you prepare the creamy sauce, keeping them fresh and ready for the layering process. Step 2: Mix Sauce In a large mixing bowl, blend together 2 cups of heavy cream or half and half, 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, 2 tsp of garlic powder, a pinch of paprika, 1/4 tsp of ground nutmeg, 2 tbsp of fresh thyme leaves, and 2 tbsp of freshly chopped rosemary. Whisk until smooth and well combined, ensuring a rich and flavorful sauce for your crockpot scalloped potatoes. Step 3: Layer Ingredients Begin layering in your Crockpot by placing a single layer of potato slices at the bottom. Pour a third of the creamy sauce over the potatoes, then add a sprinkle of 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan and 2 1/2 cups of shredded Gruyère cheese. Repeat this process until all the potatoes and sauce are used, finishing with a cheese layer on top for a deliciously melty finish. Step 4: Cook Cover the Crockpot and set it to low heat. Let the scalloped potatoes cook for approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. The sauce should bubble gently, creating an inviting aroma in your kitchen while you prepare for your gathering. Step 5: Finishing Touch For a scrumptious golden-brown crust, transfer the rice into an oven-safe dish and broil for 3–5 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning. This step offers a delightful contrast to the creamy layers of your Crockpot scalloped potatoes, making them extra irresistible for your family and friends. Expert Tips for Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes Layer Smartly: Ensure each potato layer is evenly coated with sauce and cheese to avoid dry spots. Proper layering guarantees that every bite is a creamy delight. Cheese Choice: Opt for high-quality cheeses like Gruyère or aged cheddar for the best flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that affect meltiness. Potato Prep: Soaking sliced potatoes in water for 30 minutes before cooking can help remove excess starch, resulting in creamier Crockpot scalloped potatoes. Cooking Time Awareness: Every Crockpot varies in cooking efficiency. Check the potatoes for tenderness a half-hour before the suggested time to prevent overcooking. Flavor Boosts: For added depth, throw in some sautéed onions or garlic with the layers. This small adjustment can significantly enhance the overall taste profile without much effort. Crispy Top Finish: Always broil for a few minutes post-cooking to achieve a beautiful golden top. This step elevates the dish from hearty to gourmet! What to Serve with Cheesy Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes Elevate your meal by creating delightful pairings that perfectly complement the creamy goodness of these decadent potatoes. Spiral Ham: The salty, savory flavors of ham enrich the creamy scalloped potatoes, creating a plate that feels like a cozy hug. This classic pairing is a staple of holiday feasts. Garlic Roasted Chicken: Crispy skin and succulent meat add a delicious contrast to the creamy potatoes. Each bite offers a symphony of flavors that warms the soul. Fresh Garden Salad: Bright greens and crunchy vegetables provide a refreshing balance to the rich decadence of the scalloped potatoes, making each meal feel lighter and vibrant. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweetness from the carrots beautifully enhances the savory layers of the potatoes. This charming side adds a pop of color along with complementary flavors to your dish. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds texture and a bit of crunch to the creamy experience, ensuring a delightful meal that feels well rounded and satisfying. Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls make the perfect vessel for scooping up any rogue cheese sauce. Plus, they invite a comforting, homey vibe to the table. Chardonnay or Riesling: A crisp white wine can brighten up your meal while pairing harmoniously with the rich flavors of scalloped potatoes. These wines elevate the dining experience beautifully. Chocolate Mousse: Finish off your feast on a sweet note with a luscious chocolate mousse, providing a delightful contrast to the savory side. Its rich creaminess ties your meal together perfectly. Storage Tips for Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes Fridge: Store leftover Crockpot scalloped potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re properly cooled before sealing to maintain texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the scalloped potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of cream if the sauce appears too thick. Crispy Finish: For a delightful crispy top, finish reheating under the broiler for a few minutes—just keep a close eye on it! Variations & Substitutions for Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes Feel free to get creative with your dish, as several delightful twists can enhance the flavors and textures! Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a rich, non-dairy alternative. The creamy consistency brings a beautiful texture while remaining plant-based. Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like smoked gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile. Each cheese option adds a fun twist to the classic taste, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Herb Variations: Replace fresh thyme and rosemary with fresh dill or parsley for a different aromatic twist. This gentle inflection brightens the dish and adds a refreshing lift to the creamy base. Sautéed Additions: Add sautéed mushrooms or cooked spinach between the layers for added depth and nutrition. These ingredients enhance the dish’s flavors and invite vibrant color to your plate. Spicy Kick: Incorporate a bit of diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes for some heat. Balancing the creamy potatoes with a spicy element creates a delightful contrast that many will love. Texture Variation: Add a layer of cooked bacon bits or crispy onions on top for extra crunch. This not only brings a satisfying texture to your dish but also enriches the savory flavor. For more delicious ideas, try these comforting recipes like Crockpot Cheese Tortellini for an easy meal or Crockpot Beef Barley that everyone will enjoy! Veggie Boost: Toss in some thinly sliced carrots or zucchini for a pop of color and added nutrients. These veggies cook down nicely, blending seamlessly into the creamy sauce. Make Ahead Options These Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for meal prep lovers seeking to save time on busy weeknights! You can slice the russet potatoes and mix the creamy sauce up to 24 hours in advance; just store them separately in the fridge to prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy, layer the ingredients in the Crockpot and set it to cook; there’s no need to thaw! For optimal quality, assemble right before cooking and keep the cheese separate until layering. This way, you’ll have deliciously creamy, cheesy potatoes ready to impress with minimal effort, giving you more time to relish your special moments. Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best potatoes for scalloped potatoes? For the perfect texture, I recommend using russet potatoes as their starchy composition holds up beautifully during cooking. If you prefer a creamier flavor, Yukon gold potatoes are a lovely alternative due to their buttery quality. Look for firm potatoes without dark spots or blemishes, as they indicate freshness. What is the best method to store leftovers? To keep your Crockpot scalloped potatoes fresh, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container once they reach room temperature. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let them cool before sealing the container to prevent moisture buildup, which can affect texture. Can I freeze scalloped potatoes? Absolutely! To freeze, allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container, layering parchment paper between portions if you’d like to separate them. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When it’s time to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. What if my potatoes are cooking unevenly? If you’re noticing that some potato layers are cooking more slowly than others, try gently stirring the layers halfway through cooking. This will help to redistribute the cream sauce and ensure every slice benefits from that rich, comforting flavor. Cooking times can vary with different Crockpot models, so keep an eye on your dish! Can pets eat scalloped potatoes? While it may be tempting to share your delicious Crockpot scalloped potatoes with pets, it’s best to avoid giving them any. The heavy cream, salt, and spices can be hard on their digestive systems. Instead, consider boiling plain potatoes without seasoning for your furry friends. How can I make this dish healthier? For a lighter version of Crockpot scalloped potatoes, substitute some heavy cream with a mix of Greek yogurt and milk. This will maintain creaminess while cutting down on calories. You can also add more vegetables, like steamed broccoli or cauliflower, to bulk it up and increase the nutritional value! Creamy Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes for Effortless Comfort A delightful recipe for Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes, combining creamy, cheesy layers for a comforting side dish. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 4 hours hrs 45 minutes minsTotal Time 5 hours hrs 5 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Creamy Sauce2 cups heavy cream or half and half Substitution: Use whole milk for a lighter version, but note it may be less creamy.1 cup low-sodium chicken broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.1 pinch paprika No substitution needed, but it can be omitted if desired.1/4 tsp ground nutmeg Omit if you dislike nutmeg.2 Tbsp fresh thyme leaves Substitution: Use dried thyme, reducing to 1 Tbsp.2 Tbsp freshly chopped rosemary Substitution: Omit for a milder taste.2 tsp garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used; adjust quantity to taste.For the Potatoes3 lbs russet potatoes, sliced 1/4 inch thick Use Yukon gold for a creamier texture.For the Cheese Layers1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan Use pecorino for a sharper flavor.2 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère Substitution: Use mozzarella for a milder cheese or cheddar for a sharper taste.Seasoningkosher salt Adjust to taste.freshly ground black pepper Adjust to taste. Equipment Crockpot Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Scalloped PotatoesStart by washing and peeling 3 lbs of russet potatoes, then slice them into 1/4 inch thick rounds.In a large mixing bowl, blend together 2 cups of heavy cream or half and half, 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, 2 tsp of garlic powder, a pinch of paprika, 1/4 tsp of ground nutmeg, 2 tbsp of fresh thyme leaves, and 2 tbsp of freshly chopped rosemary. Whisk until smooth and well combined.Begin layering in your Crockpot by placing a single layer of potato slices at the bottom. Pour a third of the creamy sauce over the potatoes, then add a sprinkle of 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan and 2 1/2 cups of shredded Gruyère cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a cheese layer on top.Cover the Crockpot and set it to low heat. Let the scalloped potatoes cook for approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.For a scrumptious golden-brown crust, transfer the mixture into an oven-safe dish and broil for 3–5 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure each potato layer is evenly coated with sauce and cheese to avoid dry spots. Soaking sliced potatoes in water for 30 minutes before cooking can help remove excess starch for creamier results. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
