Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

These Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. Tender potato slices are slow cooked with onions, garlic, cheddar cheese, and a rich homemade cream sauce for the ultimate comfort food side dish.

Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food side dish, these Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a must-try. Thinly sliced potatoes cook low and slow in a creamy homemade cheese sauce until perfectly tender. Every bite is packed with rich cheddar flavor, buttery onions, and a delicious golden finish.

This easy crockpot recipe is perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need a comforting side dish with very little hands-on work.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect holiday side dish
• Rich and creamy cheese sauce
• Easy slow cooker recipe
• Minimal prep work
• Family favorite comfort food
• Great for potlucks
• Feeds a crowd

Ingredients

• 2½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Lightly grease a 6-quart slow cooker with butter or cooking spray.
2. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer.
3. Top with half of the sliced onions.
4. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
5. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
6. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
7. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
8. Cook until the sauce begins to thicken.
9. Stir in 2 cups cheddar cheese and Parmesan until melted.
10. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
11. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potato layers.
12. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce.
13. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese over the top.
14. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork tender.
15. Allow the potatoes to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
16. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Tips for Success

• Slice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
• Freshly shred your own cheese for the smoothest sauce.
• Do not overcook or the potatoes may become too soft.
• Yukon Gold potatoes provide the creamiest texture.
• Allow the dish to rest before serving so the sauce thickens.

Storage

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat covered in a 325°F oven until heated through.

Variations

Bacon Version

Add cooked crumbled bacon between the potato layers.

Ham Version

Mix diced cooked ham into the layers for a hearty meal.

Three Cheese

Use cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella together for extra richness.

Herb Version

Add fresh rosemary or thyme for additional flavor.

What to Serve With

• Roast chicken
• Baked ham
• Grilled steak
• Pork chops
• Turkey
• Meatloaf

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Calories: Approximately 410 per serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble everything the night before, refrigerate, and start cooking the next day.

Which potatoes work best?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they become creamy while holding their shape.

Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely. Gruyère, Monterey Jack, Colby, or mozzarella are excellent options.

Do I need to boil the potatoes first?

No. The slow cooker cooks the potatoes until perfectly tender.

Can I make this in the oven?

Yes. Bake covered at 375°F for about 60–75 minutes, then uncover for the last 15 minutes to brown the cheese.

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are rich, creamy, and packed with comforting flavors. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday feast, Sunday dinner, or family gathering, this easy slow cooker recipe is guaranteed to become one of your favorite side dishes.