Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes with Provolone
These slow cooker scalloped potatoes are the kind of comforting side dish that disappears quickly at family dinners, fall gatherings, and holiday potlucks. Thinly sliced potatoes slowly cook in heavy cream and melted provolone until tender, creamy, and golden around the edges.
With only four simple ingredients, this easy crockpot scalloped potatoes recipe delivers plenty of rich, cheesy flavor without requiring much hands-on preparation. Layer everything in the slow cooker, let it cook gently, and you’ll have a warm and satisfying potato side dish ready for the table.
Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
- Only 4 ingredients: Simple pantry and refrigerator staples make this recipe easy to prepare.
- Easy slow cooker recipe: Most of the cooking happens unattended, making it ideal for busy days.
- Creamy and cheesy: Heavy cream and melted provolone create a rich, velvety sauce.
- Perfect for gatherings: The recipe makes about 8 servings and works beautifully for potlucks and holiday meals.
- Make-ahead friendly: The potatoes can stay warm briefly in the slow cooker before serving.
- Great comfort food: Tender potatoes and creamy cheese make this a cozy side dish for cooler weather.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 8 ounces provolone cheese, shredded or thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
How to Make Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
1. Prepare the potatoes
Lightly grease a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Scrub the potatoes well and slice them about 1/8 inch thick. Keeping the slices as uniform as possible helps them cook evenly.
2. Build the layers
Arrange about one-third of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle with one-third of the salt, followed by one-third of the provolone and one-third of the heavy cream.
Repeat the layers twice more, finishing with the remaining cheese and cream.
3. Slow cook until tender
Cover and cook on LOW for 4 1/2 to 6 hours, or until the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a knife and the sauce is creamy.
Avoid using HIGH heat, since the cream can separate more easily.
4. Let the potatoes rest
Turn off the slow cooker and leave the potatoes uncovered for about 10 to 15 minutes. This gives the creamy sauce time to thicken slightly.
5. Serve warm
Spoon the cheesy scalloped potatoes onto plates and serve immediately while the cheese and cream sauce are warm and silky.
Helpful Tips
Slice the potatoes evenly: A mandoline can make it easier to create thin, uniform slices, which helps the potatoes cook at the same rate.
Keep the heat low: Cooking on LOW gives the potatoes plenty of time to become tender while helping the cream-based sauce stay smooth.
Try a cheese combination: For a milder flavor, replace half of the provolone with mozzarella. You can also experiment with other good melting cheeses.
Leave the skins on: If you’re using thin-skinned potatoes, leaving the skins intact adds a rustic appearance and saves preparation time. Scrub them thoroughly first.
Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the finished potatoes to rest uncovered helps the sauce become thicker and easier to serve.
What to Serve with Scalloped Potatoes
These creamy slow cooker potatoes make an excellent side dish for:
- Roast chicken
- Meatloaf
- Grilled sausages
- Barbecue chicken
- Burgers
- Roast beef
- Roasted vegetables
- Fresh green salad
They’re especially good for Thanksgiving, Sunday supper, fall potlucks, and family gatherings.
Recipe Benefits
This recipe is particularly useful when you need a hands-off potato side dish for a crowd. The slow cooker frees up oven space for other dishes, while the simple ingredient list keeps preparation affordable and uncomplicated. It also works well for potlucks because the potatoes can be served directly from the slow cooker.
FAQ
Can I make scalloped potatoes in a slow cooker?
Yes. Thinly sliced potatoes can be layered with cream and cheese and cooked on LOW until tender and creamy.
How long do scalloped potatoes take in a crockpot?
These potatoes generally take about 4 1/2 to 6 hours on LOW, depending on the thickness of the slices and your slow cooker.
What cheese is good for scalloped potatoes?
Provolone provides a rich, slightly distinctive flavor and melts well. Mozzarella can be combined with it for a milder flavor.
Can I keep scalloped potatoes warm in the slow cooker?
Yes, they can be kept warm for a short period after cooking. For the best texture, avoid leaving them on the warm setting for an extended time.
