Creamy, cheesy, cozy, and unbelievably easy—these Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes make the perfect side dish for weeknight dinners, holidays, potlucks, or Sunday comfort meals. Made with thinly sliced potatoes, a luscious cream sauce, and layers of melty cheese, this set-and-forget crockpot recipe guarantees delicious results without the stress.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving comfort food, this dish brings all the classic scalloped potato flavor with half the effort.
⭐ Why This Recipe Works
- Super easy: Just layer everything in your slow cooker and let it simmer into creamy perfection.
- Hands-off: No oven, no babysitting—perfect for busy days.
- Feeds a crowd: Great for family gatherings, holidays, and parties.
- Customizable: Swap cheeses, add herbs, or include ham or bacon.
- Always creamy: Cooking low and slow ensures tender potatoes and a rich sauce.
🥔 Ingredients
- 3 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream (or evaporated milk for a lighter option)
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
🥣 How to Make Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes into even rounds. The thinner the slices, the creamier the texture.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together:
- Heavy cream
- Melted butter
- Flour
- Garlic
- Salt, pepper & seasonings
This creates a rich sauce that thickens while cooking.
Step 3: Layer in the Slow Cooker
- Spray the slow cooker with nonstick spray.
- Add a layer of potatoes.
- Sprinkle onions (if using).
- Add a handful of both cheeses.
- Drizzle some cream mixture.
Repeat layers until all ingredients are used. Finish with cheese on top.
Step 4: Slow Cook
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours
OR - Cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours
The potatoes should be fork-tender and creamy.
Step 5: Serve
Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
🌟 Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes
- Try Yukon Gold potatoes for the creamiest texture.
- Avoid pre-shredded cheese—it doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Don’t skip thin slicing: Thick slices won’t soften properly.
- Add protein: Mix in diced ham, bacon, or rotisserie chicken.
- Make ahead: Assemble in the slow cooker insert the night before and chill; turn on when ready.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This side pairs perfectly with:
- Slow cooker ham
- Roast chicken or turkey
- Beef pot roast
- Pork chops
- Grilled steak
- Holiday buffet tables
🧀 Variations
Cheesy Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
Add:
- Bacon bits
- Green onions
- A sprinkle of shredded cheddar on top
Garlic Parmesan Version
Swap cheddar for:
- Parmesan
- Mozzarella
- A touch of Italian seasoning
Smoky Ranch Potatoes
Add:
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- Smoked paprika
Scalloped Potatoes with Ham
Add 1–2 cups diced cooked ham between the layers.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store: In an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Reheat: In the microwave or oven at 300°F until warm.
Freeze: Not recommended—potatoes may turn grainy.
📝 Conclusion
These Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, cheesy, and incredibly simple to make. With minimal prep and endless variations, this recipe is a must-have for anyone who loves easy slow cooker meals.