Crock pot scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort dish that offers both simplicity and a rich, creamy texture. Whether you’re making them as a side for a holiday meal or simply for a comforting family dinner, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of creating the perfect Crockpot scalloped potatoes, from choosing the best ingredients to avoiding common mistakes. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes

When it comes to making crock pot scalloped potatoes, having the right ingredients is key to achieving the creamy, cheesy goodness that defines this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 to 5 large potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream or milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 tablespoons flour (for thickening)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Each of these ingredients contributes to the overall flavor and texture of your Crockpot scalloped potatoes. The combination of cheese, butter, and cream ensures a luscious sauce that perfectly complements the tender potatoes.For another comforting recipe to pair with this dish, check out this perfect chicken pot pie casserole recipe, which is equally hearty and satisfying.

Choosing the Best Potatoes for Scalloped Potatoes

Selecting the right potatoes is critical for achieving the best texture in your crock pot scalloped potatoes. Not all potatoes are created equal, and using the wrong type can result in a less-than-desirable outcome. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this dish.

Russet potatoes are known for their high starch content, which makes them perfect for absorbing the creamy sauce.
Yukon Gold potatoes offer a buttery texture and hold their shape better during cooking.

Make sure to avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they won’t break down as nicely in the crock pot.

Preparing the Potatoes: Key Steps

Before you start cooking your Crockpot scalloped potatoes, proper preparation of the potatoes is essential. Follow these steps to ensure even cooking and the best results:

Peel the potatoes – Start by peeling your chosen potatoes to create a smooth texture in the final dish.
Slice evenly – Use a sharp knife or mandoline to slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds. This ensures uniform cooking in the crock pot.
Rinse and dry – Rinse the sliced potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch. Pat them dry with a towel before layering them.

Preparing the potatoes correctly sets the foundation for a perfect crock pot scalloped potatoes recipe.

How to Make the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is what gives Crockpot scalloped potatoes their signature richness. Here’s how to make the sauce step-by-step:

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add flour – Once the butter has melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. This helps to thicken the sauce.
Slowly pour in cream – Gradually add the heavy cream or milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
Season the sauce – Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. For a richer flavor, stir in half of the shredded cheese.

The creamy sauce should be smooth and thick, coating the back of a spoon. This mixture is key to creating luscious crock pot scalloped potatoes.For a similar creamy casserole, try this chicken broccoli casserole recipe, a delightful blend of flavors that pairs wonderfully with scalloped potatoes.

Layering the Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Now that your potatoes and sauce are ready, it’s time to layer the ingredients in the crock pot. Proper layering ensures the potatoes cook evenly and absorb the creamy sauce perfectly.

Start with a layer of potatoes – Place a thin layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of the crock pot.
Add a layer of sauce – Pour some of the creamy sauce over the potato layer, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle cheese – Add a layer of shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.
Repeat – Continue layering potatoes, sauce, and cheese until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a cheese layer on top.

This layering method allows the flavors to meld together as the crock pot scalloped potatoes cook.

Cooking Time and Temperature

One of the best things about making crock pot scalloped potatoes is the convenience of slow cooking. Here’s what you need to know about cooking time and temperature:

Low heat – Cook the scalloped potatoes on low heat for 6-7 hours.
High heat – If you’re short on time, you can cook them on high heat for 3-4 hours.

Cooking slowly on low heat will yield the best results, as it allows the potatoes to become tender while the flavors fully develop.

Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes

To make your crock pot scalloped potatoes truly exceptional, consider these tips:

Preheat your crock pot – Starting with a warm crock pot can help the cooking process go more smoothly.
Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. For a creamier texture, shred your cheese from a block.
Don’t lift the lid – Avoid lifting the lid while the potatoes are cooking, as this can release heat and moisture, affecting the final texture.

By following these tips, your crock pot scalloped potatoes will turn out creamy and perfectly cooked every time.

Variations of crock pot scalloped potatoes

While the classic version of crock pot scalloped potatoes is delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe to suit your taste. Consider these variations:

Add bacon – Crispy bacon adds a savory and smoky element to the dish.
Incorporate vegetables – Add sliced onions or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
Use different cheeses – Swap cheddar for gouda or gruyere to change the flavor profile.

These variations allow you to tailor your crock pot scalloped potatoes to suit different occasions or preferences.For dessert, consider this blueberry scones recipe to round out your meal with a sweet treat.

Healthier Versions of Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking to make your crock pot scalloped potatoes a bit healthier, there are a few simple substitutions you can make:

Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream to reduce the calorie and fat content.
Cut down on cheese – You can use half the amount of cheese without sacrificing too much flavor.
Add cauliflower – Swap half of the potatoes for cauliflower for a lower-carb option.

These adjustments make it easier to enjoy the creamy comfort of crock pot scalloped potatoes while keeping things lighter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To avoid any mishaps while making crock pot scalloped potatoes, be mindful of these common mistakes:

Overloading the crock pot – Overfilling your crock pot can result in uneven cooking, leaving some potatoes undercooked.
Skipping the sauce – Some recipes suggest adding raw ingredients without sauce, but this can lead to dry, unappetizing potatoes.
Undercooking the potatoes – Make sure to cook the potatoes fully to ensure they are tender.

By avoiding these pitfalls, your crock pot scalloped potatoes will turn out perfect every time.

Serving Suggestions for Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes

Crock pot scalloped potatoes are versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

Roast chicken or turkey – The creamy potatoes complement roasted meats perfectly.
Grilled vegetables – Balance the richness with a side of grilled vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers.
Green salad – A light, crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the potatoes.

These pairings make this dish the perfect addition to any meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers of your crock pot scalloped potatoes, you’ll want to store and reheat them properly to maintain their deliciousness:

Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat – Reheat the potatoes in the microwave or oven. If they appear dry, add a splash of milk or cream before reheating.

Properly storing and reheating your crock pot scalloped potatoes ensures you can enjoy them for days to come.

Nutritional Information for this dish

While crock pot scalloped potatoes are undeniably rich, understanding their nutritional content can help you make informed choices:

Calories: Approximately 300 calories per serving.
Fat: Around 18 grams of fat per serving.
Carbohydrates: Roughly 25 grams of carbs per serving.
Protein: 8 grams of protein per serving.

These numbers will vary depending on the ingredients and substitutions you use, but they give a general idea of the nutritional value of crock pot scalloped potatoes.

FAQs

How long does it take for potatoes to get soft in a crock pot?

Typically, potatoes take about 6 to 7 hours on low heat to become soft in a crock pot. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can cook them on high heat for 3 to 4 hours. During the cooking process, the potatoes absorb moisture from the creamy sauce, allowing them to soften gradually and evenly. To ensure the best texture, it’s important not to lift the lid while cooking, as that releases the steam and slows down the process.

What is the difference between scalloped potatoes and gratin potatoes?

The key difference between scalloped potatoes and gratin potatoes lies in the use of cheese. Scalloped potatoes are usually baked with a creamy sauce made from butter, milk, or cream, while gratin potatoes include cheese in the sauce or layered with the potatoes. Additionally, gratin potatoes often have a crispy, golden topping of breadcrumbs or extra cheese, which is typically not found in scalloped potatoes. As a result, gratin potatoes tend to be richer and cheesier than their scalloped counterpart.

What is the one trick Michael Symon uses to make perfect scalloped potatoes?

Michael Symon’s trick for making perfect scalloped potatoes is to par-cook the potatoes before layering them in the dish. By boiling the potatoes briefly, they start softening before they even go into the oven or crock pot. This step ensures that the potatoes cook evenly and prevents any raw or undercooked spots in the final dish. Moreover, it reduces the overall cooking time, allowing the potatoes to absorb more flavor from the sauce.

How do you make Paula Deen’s scalloped potatoes?

To make Paula Deen’s scalloped potatoes, you begin by layering thinly sliced potatoes in a buttered dish. Then, you create a rich sauce by combining butter, flour, and milk, whisking it over medium heat until it thickens. Next, you add shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until smooth. After that, pour the cheesy sauce over the potatoes, ensuring even coverage. Finally, bake the dish in the oven at 350°F for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown. This recipe delivers a classic, comforting flavor.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re all set to make the best crock pot scalloped potatoes. This creamy, comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, and with these tips and variations, you can make it your own. Enjoy!

Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes : A Delicious and Simple Guide