Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Queso
These slow cooker cheesy scalloped potatoes take a beloved Sunday side dish and give it a bold, Tex-Mex upgrade. Inspired by classic French gratin potatoes, this easy crockpot version skips the traditional béchamel sauce and uses jarred queso dip to deliver creamy, cheesy, slightly spicy flavor with almost no effort.
With just 3 simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, holiday dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a warm, indulgent side dish simmering hands-free in the slow cooker. The result? Tender, perfectly layered potatoes coated in a rich queso sauce that feels homemade without the extra steps.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Minimal prep, maximum flavor No roux, no stovetop cooking, no extra dishes
3-ingredient slow cooker recipe Budget-friendly and pantry-friendly
Hands-off cooking Let the crockpot do all the work
Crowd-pleasing comfort food Perfect for family dinners, holidays, and potlucks
Customizable heat level Use mild, medium, or spicy queso
Great make-ahead side dish Ideal for entertaining and meal planning
Ingredients (Serves 6):
2½–3 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about ⅛-inch thick)
2 cups jarred queso dip (mild or medium)
½ cup milk or half-and-half
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional)
Directions:
Lightly grease a 4–6 quart slow cooker with cooking spray or oil.
Peel and slice potatoes evenly to about ⅛-inch thickness for even cooking.
In a bowl, whisk together queso dip and milk until smooth and pourable. Season lightly with salt and pepper if needed.
Spread a thin layer of queso sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker. Add a layer of potatoes, slightly overlapping. Spoon more queso sauce over the top. Repeat layers, finishing with queso.
LOW: 4–5 hours
HIGH: 2½–3 hours
Cook until potatoes are fork-tender and the sauce is thick and bubbly.
Let sit for 10–15 minutes before serving so the sauce sets beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
These cheesy scalloped potatoes pair perfectly with:
Roast chicken
Steak or meatloaf
Holiday mains like ham or turkey
Brunch favorites such as eggs and sausage
Fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for balance
Variations & Pro Tips:
Add smoked paprika or hot sauce for extra kick
Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack on top during the last 15 minutes
Layer thinly sliced onions for a more traditional scalloped flavor
Use Yukon Golds for creamier texture or russets for a fluffier bite
Stir gently halfway through if your slow cooker runs hot
