Welcome to our kitchen, where we’re about to embark on a culinary journey to create the ultimate comfort food dish – Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes. This hearty and indulgent dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a rich and creamy side dish. Get ready to elevate your potato game with this delicious recipe!
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
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, dried thyme, pinch of nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8-inch thick.
- Generously grease the slow cooker with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer the sliced potatoes in the slow cooker, overlapping slightly to form even layers.
- Pour a portion of the cream mixture over the potatoes, making sure to cover them evenly.
- Sprinkle a layer of grated Gruyere cheese over the cream mixture.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and Gruyere cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and allow it to melt slightly.
- Serve the scalloped potatoes hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Add Bacon: For an extra indulgent twist, add cooked and crumbled bacon between the layers of potatoes and cheese.
- Use Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses such as cheddar, Swiss, or fontina for unique flavor variations.
- Make it Creamier: If you prefer a creamier texture, you can increase the amount of heavy cream or add a dollop of sour cream to the cream mixture.
- Add Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor and aroma.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the scalloped potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them overnight. Simply cover the slow cooker with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. When ready to cook, remove from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before cooking according to the recipe instructions.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: While these scalloped potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for future meals. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Q: Can I use different types of potatoes? A: Yes, you can use different varieties of potatoes such as Russet or red potatoes. However, Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred for their creamy texture and buttery flavor.
Keto Version
To make a keto-friendly version of this dish, you can substitute heavy cream with a combination of chicken broth and unsweetened almond milk. You can also reduce the amount of potatoes used and increase the amount of low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or turnips.
Low-Carb Version
For a low-carb version, simply reduce the amount of potatoes used or replace them entirely with low-carb alternatives such as cauliflower or turnips. You can also use a combination of heavy cream and chicken broth for the cream sauce.
There you have it – the ultimate Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. With layers of tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese, this dish is comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or weeknight dinner, these scalloped potatoes are guaranteed to impress. So fire up your slow cooker and get ready to indulge in potato perfection!
