Creamy Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Cheesy Bliss: Lazy-Day Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes simmering in a slow cooker promise pure comfort on a chilly evening.

This hearty slow cooker scalloped potatoes dish delivers layers of rich, golden goodness that melt in your mouth.

Tender potato slices nestled between velvety cheese create a decadent side that steals the show at any dinner table.

Minimal prep work means maximum flavor with this classic recipe.

Each bite promises a perfect blend of crispy edges and silky smooth centers.

The aroma of bubbling cheese and perfectly seasoned potatoes will draw everyone to the kitchen.

Dive into this irresistible, crowd-pleasing dish that transforms humble ingredients into a memorable meal.

How to Keep Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes Fresh

  • Smart Refrigeration Strategy: Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days when refrigerated, maintaining delicious flavor and creamy texture.
  • Quick Reheating Technique: Warm individual portions in microwave for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of cream to restore moisture. Alternatively, reheat in oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through and edges crisp up nicely.
  • Freezer-Friendly Option: Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil. Stays good for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating to prevent texture breakdown.
  • Portioning Pro Tip: Divide into single-serve containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or quick side dishes. Label with date and contents to track freshness and maximize meal prep efficiency.

Quick Recipe Overview

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 5 hours

Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes

Calories: 427 kcal

Servings: 7

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes

For Base Ingredients:
  • Potatoes: Creamy white potatoes create the hearty foundation, choose firm and smooth spuds without sprouts or green patches.
  • Onions: Sweet aromatic base that adds depth, select fresh yellow onions with crisp outer layers and no soft spots.
For Dairy and Creamy Components:
  • Cheddar Cheese, Heavy Cream: Rich and velvety elements providing luxurious texture, opt for full-fat versions with sharp flavor profiles.
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: Smooth binding agent delivering subtle savory undertones, select low-sodium versions for better control.
For Seasoning Elements:
  • Garlic Powder, Thyme, Salt, Black Pepper: Aromatic flavor enhancers that transform simple ingredients, choose freshly ground spices for maximum taste intensity.
  • Butter: Silky lubricant supporting caramelization and adding golden richness, select unsalted butter for precise seasoning control.

Equipment Needed for Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes

  • Slow Cooker: Essential for creating creamy, tender potatoes without constant monitoring.
  • Skillet: Perfect for sautéing onions to develop rich, sweet flavor before adding to the dish.
  • Medium Bowl: Ideal for mixing cheese sauce ingredients smoothly and evenly.
  • Cutting Board: Necessary for slicing potatoes into uniform, thin pieces.
  • Sharp Knife: Required for precise potato and onion preparation.
  • Non-stick Spray: Helps prevent potatoes from sticking to slow cooker.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Critical for accurate ingredient quantities.
  • Paper Towels: Used to absorb moisture and prevent watery potatoes during cooking.

Instructions to Cook Scalloped Potatoes in a Slow Cooker

Instructions to Cook Scalloped Potatoes in a Slow Cooker
  • Onion Preparation

Soften diced onions in a skillet with melted butter until they turn translucent and slightly golden.

  • Creamy Sauce Creation

Blend cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, heavy cream, and seasonings in a mixing bowl until smooth and well combined.

  • First Layer Foundation

Grease the slow cooker and create the initial potato base, spreading half the potato slices evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle with a light seasoning and cover with the sautéed onions.

  • Final Layer Assembly

Add remaining potato slices on top, generously pour the remaining cheese sauce, and drizzle additional cream across the surface.

  • Moisture Management

Cover the slow cooker with paper towels underneath the lid to prevent excess condensation, which helps maintain the perfect potato texture.

  • Cooking Process

Slow cook on high for approximately 4-5 hours or on low for 7-8 hours, ensuring potatoes become tender and flavors meld together.

  • Cheese Finale

During the last part of cooking, sprinkle extra cheese on top, allowing it to melt and create a golden, bubbling surface.

Flavor Enhancements for Scalloped Potatoes

Flavor Enhancements for Scalloped Potatoes
  • Potato Power Moves: Pro Tips for Creamy Scalloped Perfection
  • Slicing Secrets: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato thickness, ensuring even cooking and a gorgeous layered look that will impress everyone at the dinner table.
  • Cheese Lover's Trick: Experiment with different cheese blends like gruyère, fontina, or pepper jack to add unexpected depth and richness to your classic scalloped potatoes.
  • Moisture Management: Those paper towels are genius! They catch condensation and prevent soggy potatoes, keeping your dish wonderfully creamy yet perfectly textured.
  • Herb Heaven: Fresh thyme or rosemary can replace dried herbs for a more vibrant, garden-fresh flavor that elevates the entire dish from good to absolutely spectacular.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prep the entire dish the night before, refrigerate, and start cooking in the morning for an effortless, crowd-pleasing side that practically makes itself.

Serve Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Right

  • Cheesy Comfort Feast: Serve this creamy scalloped potato dish as a hearty side that steals the show at any meal.
  • Potluck Showstopper: Bring this bubbling dish to family gatherings or community potlucks where everyone craves a comforting classic.
  • Protein Pairing Paradise: Complement the rich potatoes with grilled chicken, roasted pork tenderloin, or a juicy beef roast for a complete dinner experience.
  • Veggie Harmony: Add a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli on the side to balance the richness and provide a light, crisp contrast to the creamy potatoes.
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Creamy Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Creamy Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 7 1x

Description

Creamy slow cooker scalloped potatoes combine layers of tender potatoes with rich cheese and herbs. Hearty side dishes rarely reach such comforting depths of flavor and simplicity for home cooks who appreciate classic comfort.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs (1.36 kg) Yukon gold potatoes or red-skinned potatoes (thinly sliced)
  • 10.5 oz (298 g) condensed cream of chicken soup (1 can)
  • 1 ½ cups (340 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 ½ cups (360 ml) heavy whipping cream
  • ½ large onion (thinly sliced)
  • 1 tbsp (14 g) butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp dried thyme leaves
  • ¾ tsp salt (or to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Onion Preparation: Melt butter in a skillet and caramelize onions until translucent and golden, developing rich flavor and soft texture.
  2. Cheese Sauce Creation: Whisk together cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, heavy cream, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper until achieving a smooth, uniform consistency.
  3. Slow Cooker Foundation: Thoroughly spray slow cooker with non-stick spray, then layer half the potato slices, seasoning lightly with salt and creating an even base.
  4. Initial Layer Assembly: Distribute sautéed onions across potato foundation, then pour half the cheese sauce evenly, ensuring complete coverage and flavor integration.
  5. Final Layer Construction: Add remaining potato slices, season with salt, then completely cover with remaining cheese sauce and an additional cream drizzle for enhanced richness.
  6. Moisture Management: Place paper towels across slow cooker surface to absorb excess liquid and maintain ideal cooking environment.
  7. Cooking Process: Select cooking method – high heat for 4-5 hours or low heat for 7-8 hours, allowing potatoes to become tender and flavors to harmonize.
  8. Final Cheese Topping: Midway through cooking, sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese, creating a golden, bubbling crust that adds visual and flavor complexity.
  9. Completion Check: Verify doneness by testing potato tenderness and ensuring cheese has melted into a luxurious, appetizing covering.

Notes

  • Prevent Watery Potatoes: Place paper towels under the lid to absorb excess moisture, ensuring a creamy, thick texture.
  • Onion Caramelization Tip: Take time to slowly cook onions until golden, enhancing the dish’s deep, rich flavor profile.
  • Cheese Sauce Strategy: Whisk ingredients thoroughly to create a smooth, lump-free sauce that coats potatoes evenly and adds creamy richness.
  • Optimal Cooking Flexibility: Choose between high (4-5 hours) or low (7-8 hours) heat settings to accommodate your schedule while achieving perfectly tender potatoes.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 hours
  • Category: Dinner, Side Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 7
  • Calories: 427
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 705 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 83 mg
Jessica Martin

Jessica Martin

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Recipe Development, Food Styling and Photography​, Seasonal and Local Ingredients​, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine​, Culinary Education​

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety. Gained hands-on experience in preparing diverse cuisines and understanding flavor profiles

Oregon Culinary Institute

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Certificate
  • Focus: Specialized education in baking fundamentals, pastry arts, and dessert presentation. Emphasized creativity and precision in crafting baked goods.​

Jessica Martin is a talented food writer and recipe creator who specializes in seasonal cooking and approachable home baking. 

Educated at Portland Community College with additional pastry training from Oregon Culinary Institute, Jessica’s culinary journey spans nearly a decade of creating and sharing flavorful recipes. 

Her deep appreciation for local ingredients shapes each of her recipes, making them both accessible and inspiring. At Beard and Bonnet, Jessica uses her cheerful, down-to-earth writing to help readers effortlessly bring new tastes and creative dishes into their daily routines.

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