Oh, my goodness! If there’s one dish that truly warms my heart and fills my belly, it’s definitely these Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. I can still remember the first time I tasted a creamy, cheesy version of this classic dish. My grandma used to make it on chilly Sunday nights, and the smell wafting through the house would draw us all to the kitchen like moths to a flame. Somehow, she always knew just the perfect amount of cheese to make those potatoes sing!
Now, with my trusty slow cooker, I can whip up this delightful recipe with hardly any fuss! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or even as a stunning side dish to impress your guests at parties. It’s both comforting and indulgent, combining layers of thinly-sliced potatoes with melty cheese and creamy goodness. Trust me, if you want your loved ones to gather around the dinner table, this dish will do the trick!
What’s in Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
Let’s break down this cheesy delight, shall we? Here’s what you’ll need to bring these heavenly potatoes to life:
Russet Potatoes: The stars of the show! Their starchy texture makes them perfect for this dish. Make sure to slice them thinly for even cooking—nobody wants crunchy bits here!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: I usually reach for a good quality sharp cheddar, but feel free to mix things up with a blend of your favorites. Gruyère adds a lovely depth, and mozzarella lends a gooey richness.
Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens! Rich and decadent, it gives that creamy consistency we all crave. If you’re feeling brave, you could even swap some of it for a low-fat version, but I recommend going full fat at least the first time!
Milk: A splash of milk balances the cream’s richness. Whole milk is best, but use what you’ve got on hand.
Onion: The finely chopped onion adds a sweet and savory depth to the dish. I’m a big fan of yellow onions, but red would work well if you prefer.
Garlic: Because let’s be honest, is there anything that garlic doesn’t improve? Just a couple cloves will do to enhance that cozy aroma.
Butter: A bit of melted butter makes everything better! It adds flavor and helps with that creamy sauce.
Dried Thyme: This herb brings a fragrant earthiness to the table. Fresh thyme is a lovely substitution if you have it around.
Paprika: For a hint of color and a slight smoky flavor, paprika is perfect! You can use smoked paprika if you like a bit more jazz.
Salt and Pepper: No dish is complete without a little seasoning! Adjust these to your preference.
Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of this on top not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh touch.
Is Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Good for You?
Alright, let’s get real here — these cheesy scalloped potatoes are definitely a treat rather than health food! But don’t worry; I firmly believe in enjoying the glorious joy of cooking without holding back once in a while.
– **Potatoes:** They’re a great source of vitamins C and B6, as well as potassium. Just be cautious with the portions because they can be starchy.
– **Cheese:** Packed with protein and calcium, but varied in fat content. Opt for lower-fat options if you want to keep it lighter!
– **Cream and Butter:** High in saturated fats, but they make everything taste divine! You might consider using reduced-fat products if you’re watching your intake.
So while this dish may not be a salad, it fits in nicely with the idea of balance. Moderation is key!
Ingredients
This recipe serves about 6 hungry people. Here’s what you need:
– 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheeses)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, if available)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
Ready to dive in? Here’s how to make these creamy dreams a delicious reality:
1. **Prepare the Slow Cooker:** Start off by greasing the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a little melted butter. We don’t want these beauties to stick!
2. **Layer the Potatoes:** Start with half of your sliced russet potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. Follow that with half of the chopped onions and half of the minced garlic. Why not season as you go? Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and some of that lovely dried thyme.
3. **Add Cheese:** Now for the cheesy goodness! Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the first layer of potatoes.
4. **Repeat Layering:** Add the remaining potato slices, followed by the remaining onion and garlic. Feel free to season again with salt, pepper, and thyme before topping it all off with the remaining cheese.
5. **Mix Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, melted butter, and paprika until combined. Pour this luxurious mixture evenly over the layered potatoes.
6. **Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. **Serve:** Once cooked, resist the urge to dive right in! Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with some fresh parsley for that lovely touch.
Serving Suggestions for Your Cheesy Creation
So, you’ve mastered this cheesy dish; now here are some fun ways to enjoy it. For a heartier meal, pair it with roasted meats like chicken or pork chops. If you’re feeling festive, serve it alongside a fresh side salad to cut through the richness. And don’t forget, these potatoes make a fantastic addition to any holiday spread!
I truly hope you get a chance to try this Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe. The joy of cooking and sharing comfort food has always considered life’s little anchor. So grab your ingredients, put on that apron, and let’s make some delicious memories! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out—happy cooking!
