Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Imagine tender, thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a velvety cream sauce, layered with melted cheese, and seasoned just right—all cooked low and slow in your trusty Crockpot. These slow cooker scalloped potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re the creamy, dreamy centerpiece of any comfort meal. Perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or busy weeknights, this make-ahead recipe brings gourmet flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients & Their Purpose

• 1.5 kg (about 3 lbs) Potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced – The star of the dish. Use starchy varieties like Russets for a soft, creamy texture.
• 1 cup Heavy Cream – Adds luxurious richness and helps bind the sauce.
• 1 cup Milk – Balances the cream with lightness for a perfect sauce consistency.
• 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour – Slightly thickens the cream sauce for that classic scalloped texture.
• 1 teaspoon Salt – Enhances all the other flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper – Adds subtle heat and depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder – Infuses savory flavor into every bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder – Complements the garlic and boosts flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon Paprika – A touch of smokiness and color for visual appeal.
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully between layers for rich, cheesy flavor.
• Optional: Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty note for next-level flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Grease Your Slow Cooker: Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cream Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until smooth and lump-free.
3. Layer the Ingredients:
   • Start with a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom of the slow cooker.
   • Pour a portion of the cream mixture over the potatoes.
   • Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese (and Parmesan if using).
   • Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender and fully cooked through.
5. Serve: Once done, let it rest uncovered for 10 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

Pro Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes

• Use a mandoline – For evenly thin slices that cook at the same rate.
• Don’t skip the flour – It keeps the sauce from being too runny.
• Shred your own cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may affect melting.
• Let it rest before serving – This allows the sauce to set and enhances flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These crockpot scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with:

• Glazed ham or roast beef for a holiday dinner
• Grilled chicken or pork chops for a hearty weeknight meal
• Steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad for contrast