Imagine a dish so creamy and cheesy that it melts in your mouth, making every bite a comforting hug for your taste buds. Our Slow Cooker Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes are not just a side dish; they are the star of the show! Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe is a delightful blend of tender potatoes, rich cheddar cheese, and a touch of onion, all slow-cooked to perfection. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker works its magic. Get ready to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings with this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to become a family favorite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes by washing them thoroughly and using a mandoline or sharp knife to slice them thinly (approximately 1/8 inch thick). Pat the potato slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Finely chop the onions and set aside. Grate the cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded, ensuring you have 2 full cups.
- Layer the sliced potatoes in the slow cooker, slightly overlapping each slice. After each layer of potatoes, sprinkle some chopped onions, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Continue layering potatoes, cheese, onions, and seasonings until all ingredients are used, creating approximately 3-4 layers.
- Pour the heavy cream evenly over the layered potatoes, ensuring it seeps between the potato slices.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 4 hours, or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle additional cheese on top for a golden, melted finish.
- Once done, turn off the slow cooker and let the potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh chopped chives or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for the best texture. Their ability to hold up during cooking will ensure a creamy finish without becoming mushy.
- Slice Evenly: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato slices, which will cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the cheese and cream better. Aim for approximately 1/8 inch thickness.
- Layering is Key: When layering the ingredients in the slow cooker, ensure you alternate between potatoes, cheese, and onions. This helps distribute the flavors throughout the dish.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the potatoes to rest after cooking is crucial. This step helps the sauce thicken and makes serving easier, ensuring each scoop holds together beautifully.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: For a fresh touch, consider garnishing your scalloped potatoes with chopped chives or parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor!
- Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Simply layer the ingredients in the slow cooker and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just plug it in and let it cook!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 372kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: mg
