I just want to start this post with a big heartfelt thank you for being here. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning reader, your presence makes this cozy little corner of the internet feel like a real kitchen table we’re gathering around. I’m so excited to share today’s recipe — one that’s warm, rich, easy to love, and even easier to make.
These Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes are everything you want in a comfort food side dish — creamy, cheesy, tender, and full of flavor. They practically melt in your mouth, and thanks to the magic of the slow cooker, they’re completely fuss-free. This is the kind of dish you can set and forget, then pull out a bubbling, golden dream of potatoes just in time for dinner.
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What Are Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes typically involve layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce, often with cheese — and this version does all that, but in the slow cooker. No oven babysitting, no complicated roux — just effortless comfort food.
These are perfect for holidays, potlucks, family dinners, or any night when you want a hearty, indulgent side that feels like a hug on a plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra-creamy with no canned soups in sight!
- Cheesy and rich without being too heavy.
- Made in the slow cooker — saves oven space during big meals.
- Hands-off cooking that gives you more time to enjoy with family.
- Great for make-ahead and leftovers reheat beautifully.
What Do Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Taste Like?
Oh my goodness. These potatoes are velvety and luscious with a golden, cheesy top that’s pure magic. The garlic, onion, and paprika add subtle savory depth, while the buttery cream mixture seeps into every bite. The cheddar adds that sharp, cheesy kick, and the Parmesan? It gives it that irresistible salty umami note that keeps you going back for “just one more spoonful.”
Benefits of Making These Potatoes
- Perfect for crowds (serves 6–8)
- Easy to customize with what you have on hand.
- No need to heat up the oven — great for warm weather or busy kitchens.
- Stays warm in the slow cooker — ideal for buffet-style dinners or holiday meals.
🧂 Ingredients
Here’s everything you need:
- Potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced) — 1.5 kg (about 3 lbs)
- Heavy cream — 1 cup
- Milk — 1 cup
- All-purpose flour — 2 tablespoons
- Salt — 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper — ½ teaspoon
- Garlic powder — ½ teaspoon
- Onion powder — ½ teaspoon
- Paprika — ¼ teaspoon
- Shredded cheddar cheese — 1 cup
- Grated Parmesan cheese — ½ cup
- Unsalted butter (cut into small pieces) — 1 tablespoon
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- Slow cooker (5–6 quart recommended)
- Sharp knife or mandoline for slicing potatoes
- Mixing bowl and whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Butter or cooking spray to grease the slow cooker
🔄 Ingredient Substitutions & Additions
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof!
Substitutions:
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk.
- Use Gruyère or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a milder or nuttier flavor.
- Replace flour with cornstarch for a gluten-free version.
Additions:
- A handful of cooked bacon or ham between layers = next-level.
- Thinly sliced onions or leeks for extra depth.
- Fresh thyme or rosemary for a herbaceous twist.
- A little Dijon mustard whisked into the sauce for tang.
👩🍳 How to Make Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
Step 1: Grease Your Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Layer It All Up
Place a layer of thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour over some of the cream mixture, then sprinkle with a bit of the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining cheese on top.
Step 4: Add Butter and Paprika
Dot the top with the butter pieces and finish with a dusting of paprika for that warm, golden color and subtle smoky note.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook:
- On LOW for 6–8 hours
- Or HIGH for 3–4 hours
Potatoes are done when they’re fork-tender and the sauce is bubbling.
Step 6: Let Rest & Serve
Let the potatoes rest for 5–10 minutes with the lid off before serving. This helps the sauce thicken and makes them even more irresistible.
🍽️ What to Serve with Scalloped Potatoes
These go with everything, but here are a few dreamy pairings:
- Roasted chicken or turkey
- Glazed ham
- Grilled steak or pork chops
- A big green salad for balance
- Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts
💡 Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
- Slice potatoes evenly — use a mandoline if you can.
- Don’t skip the flour — it helps thicken the sauce!
- Cheese last — keep some for the top for that melty, golden finish.
- Let them rest after cooking so the sauce sets up a bit.
- For extra browning, pop under the broiler for 2–3 mins (in an oven-safe dish).
🧊 Storage & Reheating Instructions
These potatoes are just as dreamy the next day!
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or oven with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creaminess.
- Freezing is not ideal — dairy tends to separate — but it can work in a pinch.
ℹ️ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire dish the night before, refrigerate it, and start cooking in the morning. Or, cook fully and reheat before serving.
Can I use red or Yukon Gold potatoes?
Absolutely. Yukon Golds are especially creamy and hold their shape beautifully. Russets work too but may break down more.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes — just make sure your slow cooker is large enough, and you may need to increase cooking time slightly.
Can I leave out the cheese?
Sure! You’ll still get a creamy, delicious result. But… cheese lovers may miss it!
❤️ In Conclusion
There’s something so comforting about a dish like this — Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes are the kind of recipe that never fails to impress, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a holiday table showstopper. Creamy, cheesy, easy, and endlessly customizable… anything but boring!!
So go ahead, grab your potatoes, and let your slow cooker do the magic. You’re going to love how simple — and satisfying — this is.
🍑 Want More Cozy Comfort? Try These Recipes:
💬 Let’s Stay Connected!
If you make this dish, please leave a review, share a photo, and tag me on Pinterest — I’d love to see your creations and hear how it turned out for you. 💛
🥄 Nutritional Information (per serving)
Estimated per serving (1 of 8):
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 19g
- Carbs: 27g
- Protein: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 430mg
Note: Nutrition estimates vary based on brands and substitutions used.
