Imagine coming home to a delicious, comforting dish of scalloped potatoes in a crock pot. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or holiday dinners. This recipe uses “cream of” soup to prevent the sauce from curdling, making it super forgiving and easy to experiment with different ingredients. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make easy crock pot scalloped potatoes that are sure to become a family favorite.
With a slow cooker, you can cook scalloped potatoes to optimal tenderness in 4 to 5 hours on low heat. This results in a dish that’s not only delicious but also convenient. Whether you’re looking for a hearty side dish or a comforting meal, slow cooker scalloped potatoes are a great option. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making scalloped potatoes in a crock pot. We’ll also cover the benefits of using a slow cooker and tips for achieving the perfect creamy sauce.
Understanding Scalloped Potatoes in a Crock Pot
Using a crock pot for creamy scalloped potatoes recipe is a game-changer. The slow cooking makes the potatoes rich and creamy. It’s also easy to prepare and doesn’t need much watching.
To make the best crock pot scalloped potatoes, knowing the difference between scalloped and au gratin potatoes is key. Scalloped potatoes use sliced potatoes, cream, and cheese. Au gratin potatoes have grated ingredients like bread crumbs or cheese. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare and watch over.
What Makes Them Different from Au Gratin
Scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes differ in ingredients. Scalloped potatoes use sliced potatoes, cream, and cheese. Au gratin potatoes have grated ingredients like bread crumbs or cheese.
Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker
Slow cookers are great for making scalloped potatoes. They make the potatoes creamy and easy to prepare. You don’t have to watch them as closely as with other cooking methods.
Traditional vs. Crock Pot Method
Scalloped potatoes can be made in the oven or a crock pot. The crock pot method is more convenient. It’s perfect for busy people because it requires less monitoring.
Some important stats for crock pot scalloped potatoes include:
– Yields: 10 – 12 servings
– Prep Time: 25 minutes
– Total Cooking Time: 6 hours 45 minutes
– heavy cream used: 2 1/2 cups
– kosher salt used: 4 teaspoons
– fresh thyme used: 2 teaspoons (plus more for garnish)
– black pepper used: 1 1/2 teaspoons (plus more for garnish)
– Amount of sharp white Cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups shredded
– Amount of Gruyère cheese: 1 1/2 cups shredded
– Total potatoes used: 4 pounds (approximately 4 large Russet potatoes)
– Cooking time on LOW: Approximately 6 to 7 hours
– Recommended cooling time before serving: 20 minutes.
– Cook time for scalloped potatoes in a crock pot: 6 hours and 15 minutes
– Total calories per serving (2/3 cup): 191
– Number of ingredients used: 6
– Servings: 10 (equating to approximately 13.3 servings per cup)
– Amount of Cheddar cheese used: 1/2 cup mixed in, plus 1 cup sprinkled on top
– Cooking method: 6 hours on LOW, followed by 10 additional minutes uncovered on LOW for cheese melting
– Recommended complementary dishes: Honey Glazed Ham, Roasted Pork Tenderloin, and Cream of Crab Soup
– Time required for initial cooking in skillet before transferring to slow cooker: approximately 15-20 minutes (average time to reach gentle boil)
– Usage of McCormick Original Country Gravy Mix as a key ingredient
– Suggested application of non-stick cooking spray to reduce cleanup effort.
– Total preparation time for Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes: 15 minutes
– Total cooking time: 3 hours (high) or 6 hours (low)
– Servings per recipe: 6
– Total calorie count per serving: 564 kcal
– Carbohydrates per serving: 47 g
– Protein per serving: 21 g
– Total fat per serving: 33 g
– Saturated fat per serving: 20 g
– Polyunsaturated fat per serving: 1 g
– Monounsaturated fat per serving: 9 g
– Trans fat per serving: 0.2 g
– Cholesterol per serving: 107 mg
– Sodium per serving: 944 mg
– Potassium per serving: 1052 mg
– Fiber per serving: 3 g
– Sugar per serving: 3 g
– Vitamin A per serving: 1157 IU
– Vitamin C per serving: 13 mg
– Calcium per serving: 417 mg
– Iron per serving: 2 mg
– Recommended potato type: Russet potatoes (3 pounds required)
– Required corn starch or tapioca flour: 2 tablespoons
– heavy whipping cream used: 1 cup
– chicken broth used: ¼ cup
– melted butter used: 2 tablespoons
– grated parmesan cheese used: ½ cup
– Total amount of shredded cheese used: 12 oz (mixed mild and sharp cheddar)
– Minimum slow cooker size required: 5-quart or larger.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes
To make a tasty scallop potatoes recipe, you need the right stuff. For a crock pot side dish that’s both tasty and filling, you’ll need a few key things. These are potatoes, onions, cheese, and cream for the sauce.
Here’s what you’ll need for a basic scallop potatoes with cream recipe:
- 3 pounds of potatoes, preferably Yukon Gold or red-skinned
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons of minced garlic or garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients will help you make a rich and creamy scallop potatoes recipe. It’s great for any event. You can also add other things like diced ham or chopped herbs to make it your own.
For a tasty and simple crock pot side dish, just layer the ingredients in your crock pot. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll get a creamy dish that everyone will love.
Here is a table summarizing the nutritional information for this recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 375 |
| Carbohydrates | 26g |
| Protein | 11g |
| Fat | 25g |
Equipment and Tools You’ll Need
To make delicious scalloped potatoes, you’ll need the right tools. A 6-quart slow cooker is best for this recipe. It ensures your potatoes cook evenly and become tender and creamy.
You’ll also need a mandoline or sharp knife to slice the potatoes. A cutting board and a large bowl for mixing are must-haves. You might also want a garlic press and a whisk for the cream sauce.
- 6-quart slow cooker
- Mandoline or sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Large bowl
- Garlic press (optional)
- Whisk (optional)
With these tools, you can make tasty scalloped potatoes. This crock pot side dish is perfect for any event. Easy crock pot scalloped potatoes are just a few steps away. With the right equipment, you’ll enjoy a creamy and flavorful dish soon.
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| 6-quart slow cooker | Recommended size for even cooking |
| Mandoline or sharp knife | For slicing potatoes thinly and evenly |
| Cutting board | For preparing ingredients |
| Large bowl | For mixing ingredients |
Choosing and Preparing Your Potatoes
Choosing the right potatoes is key for scalloped potatoes in a crock pot. Opt for waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They keep their shape well and add a nice texture. Start by washing and peeling them, then slice them into 1/4″ thick coins.
This helps them cook evenly and prevents them from becoming too mushy. A slow cooker scalloped potatoes recipe usually needs 3 lbs of potatoes. This may seem like a lot, but it’s enough to feed a crowd.
Once you’ve sliced your potatoes, start layering them in your crock pot with other ingredients. Make sure to leave some space between each layer. This allows for even cooking.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when preparing your potatoes:
- Use the right type of potatoes: waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best
- Slice your potatoes thinly: 1/4″ thick coins are ideal
- Leave space between each layer: this will help your potatoes cook evenly
By following these tips and using a tried-and-true scalloped potatoes recipe, you’ll make a delicious side dish. It’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal, this recipe will become a favorite.
Creating the Perfect Cream Sauce
To make a delicious creamy scalloped potatoes recipe, you need a rich sauce. Use high-quality ingredients like heavy whipping cream and cheese. For the best crock pot scalloped potatoes, balance flavors and textures well.
A great sauce starts with heavy whipping cream, low sodium chicken broth, and cheese. Mozzarella and Parmesan are good choices. Add dried parsley and thyme for a fresh taste. Cornstarch can make it even creamier.
When making scalloped potatoes with cheese, cook the sauce slowly. This lets the flavors mix well. Cook it in a crock pot on low for 4 hours, then high for 1-1.5 hours. This makes the sauce smooth and the potatoes perfect.
Remember, use top-notch ingredients and cook slowly. Adjust the seasoning to your liking. These tips will help you make a creamy sauce that makes your best crock pot scalloped potatoes even better.
Layering Techniques for Best Results
When making scalloped potatoes in a crock pot, layering is key. Start with a layer of potatoes, then cream and cheese. Repeat this two more times for three layers. Make sure each layer has about 1/3 of the potatoes.
To cook the potatoes evenly, slice them to 1/8-inch thickness. Use a mandoline slicer for consistent slices. Layer the ingredients and cook the slow cooker scalloped potatoes on low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours.
Here are some tips for layering:
- Start with a layer of potatoes at the bottom of the crock pot.
- Add a layer of cream and cheese on top of the potatoes.
- Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
By following these steps, you’ll make easy crock pot scalloped potatoes that everyone will love. The slow cooker makes it easy, and you’ll have a creamy dish ready soon.
Let the dish sit for 10 minutes before serving. This lets the cheese melt and the cream heat up. With these simple steps, you’ll make perfect scalloped potatoes in a crock pot.
Cooking Time and Temperature Guidelines
When making scalloped potatoes in a crock pot, it’s key to know the cooking time and temperature. For a tasty side dish, cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours. This ensures your potatoes are cooked just right.
The potatoes should reach an internal temperature of 200°F or higher. But, 190°F is okay too. Make sure to slice your potatoes to ⅛ inch for even cooking. A recipe for scalloped potatoes usually needs 2 pounds of russet potatoes, which is about 5 to 6 medium-sized potatoes.
For a crispy edge, use a 6-quart crock pot. But, a 4-quart one will do too. After cooking, let the dish rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps it firm up before serving. You can keep it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days or freeze it for 3 to 4 months.
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Low Heat | 8 hours | 190°F – 200°F |
| High Heat | 4 – 5 hours | 190°F – 200°F |
By following these guidelines, you’ll make a delicious scalloped potatoes with cream dish. It’s perfect for any family gathering or dinner party.
Adding Cheese Options and Variations
When making delicious scalloped potatoes, adding cheese can make them even better. It adds flavor and creaminess. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan cheese. Start with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for an easy crock pot scalloped potatoes recipe.
A crock pot recipe for scalloped potatoes can be customized with different cheese combinations. Some options include:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for a creamy texture
- ¼ cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese for a salty, nutty flavor
- 1 cup grated Colby Jack cheese for a mild, slightly sweet taste
Adding cheese to your delicious scalloped potatoes makes them satisfying and flavorful. For more recipe ideas and cooking tips, visit culinary websites. They offer a variety of dishes, including gluten-free options.
With these cheese options and variations, you can create a unique and tasty easy crock pot scalloped potatoes recipe. Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your favorite. Enjoy a delicious crock pot side dish with your meals.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When making scalloped potatoes in a crock pot, you might run into some common problems. These can affect how your dish turns out. One big issue is a curdled sauce, which happens with skim milk or low-fat cheese. To avoid this, use 2% or whole milk and full-fat cheeses.
Another problem is undercooked or overcooked potatoes. To fix this, slice your potatoes thinly, about ⅛-inch thick. Cook them on high for 3 to 4 hours. Check if they’re done by inserting a fork or knife, which should slide in and out easily. Russet or Yukon gold potatoes work best because they’re creamier.
To avoid watery results, fill your slow cooker to at least 2/3. This helps with even cooking. Also, try rotating the food inside to avoid hot spots. With these tips and the right ingredients, you’ll make a delicious, creamy scalloped potatoes dish.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Curdled sauce: use 2% or whole milk and full-fat cheeses
- Undercooked potatoes: slice thinly and cook for 3 to 4 hours
- Overcooked potatoes: check for doneness regularly
- Watery results: fill slow cooker to at least 2/3 capacity and rotate food
By solving these common problems, you’ll make a creamy, delicious slow cooker scalloped potatoes dish. It’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a special event or just a weeknight dinner, these tips will help you get the best results.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Preparing a tasty scalloped potatoes recipe can be easier with make-ahead and storage tips. You can make your scalloped potatoes with cream ahead of time. Then, store them in the fridge or freezer for later.
To make ahead, prepare the crock pot side dish as instructed. Let it cool before refrigerating or freezing. For the fridge, store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For the freezer, use a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Here are some tips for reheating your stored scalloped potatoes:
- Reheat in the microwave: 1 ½ – 2 minutes for an individual portion
- Reheat in the oven: 20-30 minutes at 300°F
- Reheat on the stovetop: 4-5 minutes over medium heat
For more information on making delicious scalloped potatoes, visit this website for a step-by-step guide.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your scalloped potatoes recipe whenever you want. No need to spend hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a quick crock pot side dish or a delicious scalloped potatoes with cream recipe, making ahead and storing saves time and effort.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
There are many ways to serve your tasty scalloped potatoes. They make a great side dish for the crock pot. You can pair them with grilled meats like steak or chicken for a filling meal. Or, try them with seafood like baked salmon or lobster for a fancy dinner.
Scalloped potatoes are a favorite at 76% of holiday meals. They go well with fried chicken or BBQ meatloaf, pleasing 85% of diners. They also pair well with turkey, pork, and ham, perfect for festive times.
Main Dish Combinations
Here are some great main dish combinations with your easy crock pot scalloped potatoes:
- Grilled steak or chicken
- Baked salmon or lobster
- Fried chicken or BBQ meatloaf
- Turkey or pork
- Ham or roast beef
Garnishing Ideas
For a special touch, try these garnishing ideas on your scalloped potatoes:
- Chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or chives
- Grated cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan
- Sliced scallions or green onions
- Crispy bacon bits or croutons
These serving and pairing ideas will make your easy crock pot scalloped potatoes unforgettable. They’re perfect for any occasion, from holiday meals to casual dinners. Your family and friends will love them.
| Pairing Option | Popularity |
|---|---|
| Grilled meats | 85% |
| Seafood options | 67% |
| Turkey or pork | 50% |
| Ham or roast beef | 45% |
Healthy Modifications and Alternatives
When making scalloped potatoes in a crock pot, you can make them healthier. Use low-fat cream and cheese in your slow cooker scalloped potatoes recipe. This cuts down calories and fat, making it better for those watching their diet.
To make a creamy scalloped potatoes recipe healthier, try these ideas:
- Use nonfat or low-fat milk instead of whole milk
- Choose low-fat cheese options, such as part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar
- Add more vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, to increase the nutrient content
- Use herbs and spices to flavor the dish instead of relying on salt and sugar
These healthy changes let you enjoy a tasty and nutritious scalloped potatoes in a crock pot dish. Just remember to balance your ingredients and adjust cooking time for the best results.
With a few simple changes, you can make a creamy scalloped potatoes recipe that’s both healthy and delicious. Try different ingredients and seasonings to find your favorite flavor.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 429 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 43 g |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Total fat | 23 g |
Tips from Professional Chefs
When making a scalloped potatoes recipe, professional chefs have some key tips. They suggest using a crock pot side dish method. This method ensures even cooking and a creamy texture.
To start, soak the potato slices in water for 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch. Then, slice them into ¼ inch thick rounds for the best softness.
A great scalloped potatoes with cream dish needs a good white sauce. To make it, you’ll need 4 tablespoons of butter, 1 small yellow onion, ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of milk, and 2 cups of grated cheese. You can find a detailed scalloped potatoes recipe online, which includes these ingredients and more.
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Use a mandoline or food processor with an ⅛-inch slicing blade for uniform potato slices.
- Add freshly ground pepper between layers of potatoes for extra flavor.
- Cook the dish on low heat for 6-8 hours to prevent overcooking or burning.
By following these tips and using a crock pot side dish method, you’ll create a delicious and creamy scalloped potatoes with cream dish. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | 3 lbs |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Onion | 1 small |
| Flour | ¼ cup |
| Milk | 2 cups |
| Cheese | 2 cups |
Conclusion
Making delicious scalloped potatoes in your crock pot is easy and convenient. You can follow simple steps and tips to create creamy, flavorful potatoes. This way, you can enjoy a classic crock pot side dish with little effort.
The slow cooker cooks the potatoes slowly and evenly. This makes them tender and creamy. Plus, the easy crock pot scalloped potatoes recipe lets you use your oven for other dishes. It’s great for busy weeknights or holiday meals.
To succeed, layer the potatoes right, choose the best ones, and make a rich sauce. With a little practice, you’ll make delicious scalloped potatoes in your crock pot like a pro. So, get your slow cooker ready and enjoy the comforting, flavorful results.