Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy and Delicious Comfort Food
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes recipe. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or any cozy meal, these creamy and cheesy potatoes are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and the convenience of your slow cooker, you can enjoy tender slices of Yukon Gold potatoes bathed in a rich and flavorful cream sauce. Join us as we dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook’s notes, variations, and even keto-friendly and low-carb versions. Let’s elevate your side dish game with these irresistible Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes!
Ingredients:
- 5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 2 cups Gruyere cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and slice them into thin, 1/8-inch thick rounds. For uniform slices, you can use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife.
- Layer in the Slow Cooker:
- In the bowl of your slow cooker, layer the sliced potatoes, spreading them out evenly.
- Make the Cream Sauce:
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, dried thyme, pinch of nutmeg, and a generous amount of salt and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Pour Over Potatoes:
- Pour the cream sauce over the layered potatoes in the slow cooker, ensuring that all the potatoes are coated evenly.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated Gruyere cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top of the potatoes, covering them evenly with a generous layer of cheese.
- Cook on Low:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the scalloped potatoes on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the potatoes are done, serve them hot directly from the slow cooker. Garnish with additional thyme or parsley if desired, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Potato Variety:
- While Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, you can also use Russet potatoes or red potatoes for a slightly different taste and texture.
- Creamy Sauce Options:
- Feel free to customize the cream sauce to your taste preferences by adding ingredients like minced shallots, chopped fresh herbs, or a splash of white wine for extra flavor depth.
- Cheese Variations:
- Experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Sharp cheddar, Swiss cheese, or even a blend of cheeses can be used in place of Gruyere for a unique flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option:
- Make this dish vegetarian-friendly by using vegetable broth or a combination of milk and vegetable oil instead of heavy cream. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the scalloped potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator before cooking. Simply assemble the layers in the slow cooker as instructed, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to cook, remove from the refrigerator and cook as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftover scalloped potatoes? A: While scalloped potatoes can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, let the cooked potatoes cool completely, then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I add bacon or ham to this recipe? A: Absolutely! Diced cooked bacon or ham can be added between the layers of potatoes for extra flavor and protein. Simply sprinkle the cooked bacon or ham over each layer before adding the cream sauce and cheese.
Q: How can I make this recipe keto-friendly or low-carb? A: To make a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this recipe, you can substitute heavy cream with a combination of unsweetened almond milk and cream cheese or sour cream. You can also reduce the amount of potatoes and increase the amount of cheese and cream sauce for a higher fat content.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
- Cream Sauce Substitute:
- Replace heavy cream with a combination of unsweetened almond milk and cream cheese or sour cream for a lower-carb option. Adjust the proportions to achieve the desired thickness and creaminess.
- Reduced Potatoes:
- Decrease the amount of potatoes used in the recipe and increase the amount of cheese and cream sauce to maintain the creamy texture and richness without adding extra carbs.
- Low-Carb Cheese Options:
- Choose low-carb cheese varieties such as sharp cheddar, Swiss cheese, or cream cheese to keep the carb count low while still enjoying the cheesy goodness.
Treat your taste buds to the creamy and indulgent flavors of Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes, a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and the convenience of your slow cooker, you can create a crowd-pleasing side dish that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Whether served alongside a holiday roast or enjoyed as a comforting weeknight meal, these cheesy and flavorful scalloped potatoes are sure to become a family favorite. So fire up your slow cooker and get ready to savor the irresistible goodness of Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes!
