The Best Scalloped Potatoes in the Slow Cooker: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Who doesn’t love creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes? They’re a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday feast. And the best part? You can make them right in your slow cooker, saving time and effort without sacrificing any flavor. In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about making the best scalloped potatoes in the slow cooker.

Why Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes?

Slow cookers are a game-changer when it comes to making scalloped potatoes. Not only do they allow for hands-off cooking, but they also help to develop rich, complex flavors as the ingredients simmer together for hours. Plus, using a slow cooker means you can free up oven space for other dishes, making it ideal for holiday gatherings or potluck dinners.

Ingredients

Before we get started, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 pounds of potatoes (russet or Yukon gold work well)
• 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend)
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. You can use a mandoline slicer for even slices, but a sharp knife will also do the trick.
2. Layer the Ingredients: In the slow cooker, layer the sliced potatoes and shredded cheese, alternating between the two until you’ve used them all up. Sprinkle minced garlic and dried thyme between the layers, seasoning each layer with salt and pepper.
3. Pour in the Liquid: In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth. Pour this mixture over the layered potatoes and cheese, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed throughout the slow cooker.
4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on them towards the end.
5. Serve: Once the potatoes are cooked, serve them hot directly from the slow cooker. They’ll be irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon gold potatoes are best for scalloped potatoes, as they hold their shape well during cooking and have a creamy texture.
• Don’t Overload the Slow Cooker: Make sure not to overcrowd the slow cooker, as this can prevent the potatoes from cooking evenly. It’s better to use a larger slow cooker or cook in batches if necessary.
• Add Variations: Feel free to customize your scalloped potatoes with additional ingredients like diced ham, caramelized onions, or chopped herbs for extra flavor.

Conclusion

With this easy slow cooker recipe, you can enjoy the best scalloped potatoes without the hassle of traditional oven-baked methods. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or main course, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. So dust off your slow cooker and get ready to impress with this delicious and comforting dish.