Creamy Dreamy Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever craved something creamy and comforting but didn't want the fuss? Well, this slow cooker scalloped potatoes recipe is your answer! Think melt-in-your mouth potatoes in a rich, cheesy sauce.

Seriously, it's heaven in a crockpot!

Brief Overview

Scalloped potatoes, a total classic, right? The history of this dish goes way back to Europe, with each region having its own twist on the comfort food recipe .

This easy scalloped potatoes version takes all the deliciousness and makes it super simple. It's an easy recipe perfect for 6-8 hungry folks.

Main Benefits

The best part? It’s almost entirely hands off cooking. This slow cooker scalloped potatoes recipe is packed with flavour and, honestly, it feels like a big hug in a bowl.

Perfect for a relaxed Sunday dinner or any night you need some comfort food recipe . This recipe is so good, you'll be the star baker!

Why This Recipe Slaps

Okay, picture this: you're busy getting ready for the holidays. The kids are screaming, the dog's barking, but the creamy scalloped potatoes are cooking away in the slow cooker.

Sounds dreamy, doesn't it? This recipe is special because it lets you enjoy the taste of classic scalloped potatoes without all the work.

Plus, that gruyere scalloped potatoes top gets all bubbly and golden in the slow cooker… Oh my gosh, it's amazing!

Ingredients You'll Need for Success

Time to talk about the good stuff: ingredients! You'll need potatoes, of course I like Yukon Golds for their creamy texture.

And don't forget the onion, garlic, heavy cream, milk, thyme, and a generous helping of cheese. If you're feeling fancy, go for Gruyere for that extra bit of luxe.

It makes it a proper slow cooker potato gratin . If you are feeling extra you can add scalloped potatoes with ham .

Ingredients & Equipment: Your Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Arsenal

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to make these incredibly creamy slow cooker scalloped potatoes . Trust me, this comfort food recipe is so easy, it's almost criminal.

Plus, who doesn't love a good crockpot scalloped potatoes recipe? I remember my nan making these for Sunday lunch, proper nostalgic.

Main Ingredients: Potato Power!

Here's the lowdown on what you'll need, measurements and all. This scalloped potatoes recipe is really flexible though, so don't panic if you're a bit short.

• Yukon Gold potatoes: 2 lbs (900g) . These are the best, honestly. Waxy and creamy. Make sure they're firm with no sprouts.
• Yellow onion: 1 medium , thinly sliced. The sweetness adds a lot.
• Garlic: 4 cloves , minced. Gotta have that garlicky goodness.
• Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons (56g) , melted. Don't skimp on the butter, it's key!
• Heavy cream: 2 cups (475ml) . For that ultimate creaminess we all crave.
• Whole milk: 1 cup (240ml) . Balances the richness of the cream.
• Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon . Adds a touch of earthy flavor.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon , or to taste.
• Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon , or to taste.
• Gruyere cheese: 1 cup (100g) , shredded. Gruyere, Ooh La La! . You can use cheddar for a scalloped potatoes with ham feel, and if you're going crazy, try a gruyere scalloped potatoes !

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!

This is where you can really make it your own. Don't be afraid to play around!

• Thyme is classic, but rosemary or a bit of nutmeg works wonders too.
• A pinch of cayenne pepper gives it a nice kick.
• For a richer flavor, add a bay leaf to the slow cooker. Remember to remove it before serving.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

No need for fancy gadgets. A basic setup is all you need for this easy scalloped potatoes recipe.

• 6-quart slow cooker : The star of the show!
• Mandoline (optional) : Makes slicing a breeze, but a sharp knife works just fine. Be careful though!
• Large bowl : For mixing the sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons : Standard baking stuff.

Cooking Up Comfort: Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes

Fancy a bit of comfort food recipe without the hassle? I've got you covered. This slow cooker scalloped potatoes recipe is proper lush, and honestly, it's so easy it's practically criminal.

We're talking creamy, dreamy, melt-in-your mouth potatoes with minimal effort. Forget slaving over the stove; let the crockpot scalloped potatoes do the work.

I can’t wait to share this creamy scalloped potatoes with you!

Prep Like a Pro

First things first, mise en place , darling. Peel and slice 900g Yukon Gold potatoes. Thin, like 1/8 inch or so.

A mandoline is your best friend here, but watch those fingers! Slice one medium yellow onion too. Mince 4 cloves of garlic.

Melt 56g of butter in a bowl. Get all your ingredients prepped and ready. It's like having your own sous chef.

It will feel like easy scalloped potatoes , promise .

Slow Cooker Magic: step-by-step

Ready to get this show on the road? Here's how to whip up these easy scalloped potatoes

1. Grease your 6-quart slow cooker. No one wants stuck-on potatoes.
2. In a bowl, whisk together 475ml heavy cream, 240ml whole milk, melted butter, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
3. Layer 1/3 of potatoes, 1/3 of onion, and 1/3 of 100g shredded Gruyere (or cheddar) in the slow cooker. Repeat twice. End with cheese.
4. Pour the creamy mixture over everything. Gently press to submerge the potatoes.
5. Cook on low for 4- 6 hours , or high for 2- 3 hours . Potatoes should be very tender. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Potato Perfection

Want to take your slow cooker scalloped potatoes to the next level? Here’s the goss: Uniform slices are key. If they are of different sizes, they won't cook evenly.

Don't overcook! Mushy potatoes are a no-no. Taste the cream sauce beforehand and adjust seasoning as needed. And If you want gruyere scalloped potatoes you know where to go!.

Did I mention that you can make dairy-free scalloped potatoes substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk? If you need a reason, they are so versatile!

Honestly, this scalloped potatoes recipe is a game changer. It's total comfort food recipe with a slow cooker twist. Perfect for a lazy Sunday or a busy weeknight.

And if you're feeling fancy, add some diced ham for a scalloped potatoes with ham version. Now go on, get cooking! These crockpot scalloped potatoes are calling your name.

The slow cooker potato gratin (as some call it) is easier than you think!

Recipe Notes

So, you're about to embark on a culinary adventure with this creamy slow cooker scalloped potatoes recipe. Ace! Before you dive in headfirst, let's go through some notes.

Honestly, these are just little things I've learned along the way. They'll help you become a slow cooker potato gratin master, or at least have a good laugh trying.

Serving Ideas

Okay, so you've got a bubbling, cheesy mountain of comfort food recipe goodness! What now? Well, presentation is key. Think rustic chic! A simple white bowl shows off those lovely layers.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley, just before serving. It makes all the difference, doesn't it?

For sides, you can't go wrong with something that cuts through the richness. A bright, zingy salad is perfect. A glass of crisp white wine is always a good shout too! Or, if you're feeling particularly indulgent, serve with scalloped potatoes with ham .

Blimey, that's good!

Storage Savvy

Right, leftovers. If you actually have any, that is. The sauce thickens as it cools. Put them in an airtight container and they'll keep in the fridge for up to three days.

Honestly, reheating is a doddle. Microwave it, but add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing? It’s not ideal. The texture can change and become a bit grainy. If you must freeze, use an airtight container.

Thaw completely in the fridge before reheating. Be careful because I would not recommend it.

Tweak It!

Fancy a dairy-free scalloped potatoes version? Use full fat coconut milk. It gives it a rich, creamy texture. Seasonal twist? Swede or parsnip slices among the potato layers adds a bit of earthy sweetness.

For a gruyere scalloped potatoes change add diced cooked ham between the potato layers for a heartier dish. And what about spicing it up? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

This can give a bit of heat.

Nutrition 101

Alright, let's keep it real. This easy scalloped potatoes dish is comfort food recipe heaven, not exactly health food heaven, you know? It's got spuds, cheese and creamy sauce.

Each serving packs a decent amount of carbs, fat, and protein. Potatoes have potassium and fiber. Cheese has calcium. That being said, it's all about moderation.

Enjoy a reasonable portion and savor every mouthful of this crockpot scalloped potatoes goodness.

So, there you have it! You're now armed with all you need to make the best slow cooker scalloped potatoes .

Honestly, don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. It's supposed to be fun. Happy cooking and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make slow cooker scalloped potatoes ahead of time? Will they still be alright?

Absolutely! Slow cooker scalloped potatoes are a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble everything in the slow cooker insert, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just add about 30 minutes to the cooking time to account for the cold start. They're like a culinary Tardis - timeless!

My slow cooker scalloped potatoes turned out watery. What went wrong?

A bit of excess liquid is a common issue, but easily fixed! It's likely that your potatoes released too much moisture during cooking, or the lid wasn't sealed properly. Next time, try using slightly less liquid (reduce the milk by 1/4 cup).

You can also thicken the sauce at the end by removing the lid and cooking on high for 30 minutes, or whisking in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last 15 minutes.

How long will slow cooker scalloped potatoes last in the fridge? And can I freeze them?

Properly stored, leftover slow cooker scalloped potatoes will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.

Freezing isn't ideal as the texture can change and become a bit grainy due to the dairy content, but if you must, use a freezer safe container and consume within 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating, and give them a good stir!

Can I add anything else to this slow cooker scalloped potatoes recipe to make it a full meal?

You bet! This recipe is a blank canvas for tasty additions. Diced ham, bacon, or even cooked sausage are brilliant options for adding protein. You could also sneak in some veggies like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach between the layers.

It's like a potato based shepherd's pie just needs some lamb!

What kind of potatoes work best for this slow cooker scalloped potatoes recipe?

Yukon Gold potatoes are the gold standard (pun intended!) for scalloped potatoes. They have a creamy texture and hold their shape well during slow cooking. However, Russet potatoes can also be used, though they may break down a bit more. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they don't absorb the sauce as well.

Just remember to slice them thinly for even cooking!

I'm watching my waistline, are there healthier options to make this slow cooker scalloped potatoes?

Totally! You can lighten things up by using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and using a reduced fat cheese or increasing the vegetable component. Also, consider replacing half the potatoes with sliced cauliflower for a lower carb version.

A bit of culinary wizardry, and you've got a healthier, yet still delicious, dish! Don't be shy with herbs and seasoning to keep it flavorful.