If you’re looking for a comforting, cheesy, and indulgent side dish, Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Scalloped Potatoes are a perfect choice. This recipe combines tender potatoes with crispy bacon and creamy cheese sauce, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
- 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- Russet potatoes are ideal for scalloped potatoes because they become tender and creamy as they cook.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- Onion adds depth of flavor to the dish and complements the other ingredients.
- 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Crispy bacon brings a smoky, savory element that enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Cheddar cheese provides a rich, sharp flavor that melts beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Mozzarella cheese adds a gooey, stretchy texture to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Garlic adds aromatic flavor and enhances the overall taste of the cheesy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Heavy cream creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats the potatoes.
- 1 cup milk
- Milk helps to thin out the sauce and ensure it’s not too thick.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Flour thickens the sauce, giving it a velvety texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Salt enhances the flavors of the dish and balances the richness of the cheese and cream.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Black pepper adds a touch of spice and complements the other seasonings.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Butter adds richness and helps to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the finished dish.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cook and Crumble the Bacon: Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet, drain on paper towels, and crumble into pieces.
- Slice the Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Cook the Onion and Garlic: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: Stir in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
3. Assemble the Dish:
- Layer the Potatoes: In the slow cooker, arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes. Sprinkle a portion of the crumbled bacon and chopped onion over the potatoes. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and bacon.
4. Cook the Dish:
- Set the Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly and thickened.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Finish with Fresh Parsley: If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top of the dish before serving. This adds a touch of color and a hint of freshness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Dish Out: Serve the cheesy bacon scalloped potatoes as a hearty side dish. They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or a simple salad.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Bacon Scalloped Potatoes
- Slice Potatoes Thinly: Thinly slicing the potatoes ensures they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the cheese sauce.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure not to overload the slow cooker. If needed, cook in batches or use a larger slow cooker to accommodate all the ingredients.
- Check for Doneness: Use a fork to check if the potatoes are tender. If not, continue cooking until they are easily pierced.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the cheese sauce before adding it to the slow cooker and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Scalloped Potatoes is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With its creamy cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and tender potatoes, it’s sure to be a hit at your table. Enjoy the rich flavors and ease of preparation that come with this delicious slow cooker recipe
