Slow Cooker Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Slow Cooker Creamy Scalloped Potatoes—rich, cheesy, and irresistibly tender. Made with layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes, a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, and gooey cheddar cheese, this easy crockpot side dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or potlucks.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 6–7 hours (LOW)

• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes – 7 hours 15 minutes

• Servings: 6–8 servings

• Method: Slow Cooker / Crockpot

• Cuisine: American Comfort Food

• Course: Side Dish

• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

• 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup whole milk

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

• Butter or non-stick spray, for greasing slow cooker

 Instructions (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare Your Potatoes

• Peel and slice the russet potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Use a mandoline slicer for even slices, if available.

Step 2: Grease the Slow Cooker

• Grease the inside of your slow cooker with a bit of butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.

Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine:

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 cup whole milk

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced

• Stir gently until the butter melts and the mixture is heated through (do not boil).

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes

• Layer half of the potato slices in the bottom of the slow cooker.

• Pour half of the cream sauce evenly over the potatoes.

• Sprinkle half the salt, pepper, and thyme over the layer.

Step 5: Add Remaining Potatoes

• Add the rest of the potato slices as the second layer.

• Pour the remaining cream sauce on top.

• Season with the remaining salt, pepper, and thyme.

Step 6: Slow Cook

• Cover and cook on LOW heat for 6–7 hours, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 7: Add Cheese

• About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

• Cover again and let the cheese melt completely.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

• Once done, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

• Serve warm as a delicious side dish.

 Tips and Variations

 Add a Kick of Heat

• Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cream sauce for a subtle, spicy twist.

 Add Protein

• Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham between the potato layers for a heartier dish.

 Switch the Cheese

• Swap cheddar with Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.

 Make it Vegetarian

• Add sliced mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions between the layers for extra nutrition and flavor.

 Make Ahead & Store

• This dish can be prepped the night before and stored in the fridge (uncooked).

• Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat in the microwave or oven.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy prep: Minimal chopping and hands-off cooking

• Perfectly creamy without needing flour or roux

• Versatile: Pairs well with chicken, steak, ham, or turkey

• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike

 Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are a set-it-and-forget-it comfort food classic. Whether you’re preparing them for a weeknight meal or a festive gathering, their creamy texture, cheesy topping, and comforting garlic aroma will have everyone coming back for seconds.

enjoy!