Savor the Richness: Indulge in homemade Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes, crafted with russet potatoes, heavy whipping cream, cheddar and parmesan cheeses, and a hint of garlic. Perfectly seasoned and effortlessly cooked in a slow cooker for a creamy, comforting side dish.
A Family Favorite Reinvented:
Growing up, scalloped potatoes were a staple at our family gatherings. But the store-bought versions often fell flat. One winter, I decided to shake things up with my own version in a slow cooker. It was a hit! The rich blend of cheeses, the perfect seasoning, and the ease of the slow cooker turned it into a recipe that's now a tradition in our home. It's not just a dish; it's a memory of laughter, warmth, and love, shared around the dinner table.
Unmatched Homemade Taste:
This Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes recipe stands out for its:
- Ease of Preparation: Toss the ingredients in a slow cooker and let it do the magic.
- Rich, Creamy Flavor: A luscious blend of heavy cream, garlic, and two types of cheese envelops each potato slice.
- Perfect Texture: Slow cooking ensures evenly tender potatoes, neither too firm nor too mushy.
- Versatility: Ideal for busy weekdays, cozy family dinners, or as a show-stopping side for special occasions.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable for various dietary preferences or available ingredients.
The Building Blocks:
- Russet Potatoes: Starchy and ideal for absorbing flavors. Slice them uniformly for even cooking.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Adds richness and creaminess. Can be substituted with a lighter cream for a less indulgent version.
- Cheeses: The combination of sharp cheddar and parmesan creates a perfect cheesy balance. Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends.
- Chicken Broth: Enhances flavor. Vegetable broth can be a great vegetarian alternative.
- Garlic, Salt, and Pepper: Simple seasonings that perfectly accentuate the dish’s flavors.
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The Journey to Creamy Perfection:
- Preparation: Begin by whisking together cream, chicken broth, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This mixture will be the flavor foundation of your dish.
- Crock Pot Setup: Lightly spray your slow cooker with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Layering: Start with a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by a drizzle of the cream mixture and a generous sprinkle of both cheeses. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, creating layers of flavor.
- Cooking: Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process allows flavors to meld and potatoes to cook to tender perfection.
- Finishing Touches: Optionally, garnish with parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serving: Once cooked, the scalloped potatoes are ready to be served, oozing with cheesy goodness and rich flavors.
Preserving the Deliciousness:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, these scalloped potatoes can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Gently reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, making sure to retain their creamy texture.
Tailoring to Taste:
- Dairy Alternatives: Use plant-based cream and cheese for a vegan version.
- Meat Addition: Layer in cooked bacon or ham for added flavor and texture.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or paprika for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic twist.
- Different Potatoes: Experiment with Yukon Gold or a mix of potatoes for a different texture and taste.
Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 cup of heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup of chicken broth
- 3 pounds of russet potatoes peeled and sliced approximately ¼ inch thick
- 2 teaspoons of minced garlic
- ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the slow cooker by applying a coating of non-stick cooking spray.
- Begin layering the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker, using approximately one-third of the total amount.
- Over the potatoes, evenly distribute one-third of the cream mixture, followed by one-third of the amounts of both cheddar and Parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process until all the potatoes, cream mixture, and cheeses have been used.
- Secure the lid on the slow cooker and set to cook on high for a duration of 3 to 4 hours, or until the potatoes have reached a tender consistency.
- Optionally, garnish the dish with parsley before serving.
- Serve the scalloped potatoes immediately while hot.
