The Ultimate Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes: Easy, Delicious, and Stress-Free

Prepare to transform your holiday meals and family dinners with this incredibly easy and utterly delicious recipe for slow cooker cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes. Made entirely with fresh, real ingredients – no canned soups in sight – this dish offers a creamy, flavorful experience that’s simple to prepare hours in advance. Not only does it free up precious oven space, but it also consistently delivers an amazing taste that will make it your new go-to side dish for any special occasion. Forget the stress of traditional oven-baked methods; this crockpot version promises perfection every time.

Some links in this article are affiliate links and if you click on them I will receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Scalloped potatoes have always held a special place in my heart. Who could resist layers of tender potatoes bathed in a rich, creamy sauce and generously topped with melted cheese? It’s a classic comfort food that evokes warmth and nostalgia, often making an appearance at festive gatherings and cherished family meals. However, the traditional process of making them from scratch always felt like a daunting task. The endless slicing, the meticulous sauce preparation, and the careful layering – it all added up to a time-consuming endeavor. This was especially challenging when juggling other dishes for a large meal, often contending with a crowded oven already occupied by a ham, roast chicken, or other main courses. Because of these challenges, I found myself rarely making this beloved dish, much to my family’s dismay and my own.

My culinary journey took a delightful turn when I discovered the magic of making scalloped potatoes in a slow cooker. This method proved to be an absolute game-changer. The ability to prepare the dish early in the day and let it slowly cook to perfection, all without monopolizing valuable oven space, was a revelation. Not only did it significantly reduce my pre-meal stress, but the results were consistently spectacular – a harmonious blend of cheesy, creamy, and perfectly tender potatoes that surpassed all expectations. Since adopting this slow cooker approach, I haven’t looked back. Even when oven space is readily available, the convenience and consistent deliciousness of this crockpot version have made it my exclusive way to prepare scalloped potatoes.

A quick note on terminology: I recently learned from the Idaho Potato Commission that “Au Gratin” potatoes traditionally contain cheese, while “scalloped potatoes” do not. However, I’ve always known and loved this cheesy version as scalloped potatoes, and frankly, it’s a name that has stuck with my family and me! So, while technically a cheesy potato bake might be called “Potatoes Au Gratin,” we’re sticking with “Scalloped Potatoes” for this incredibly delicious recipe.

Essential Ingredients & Smart Substitutions for the Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

My philosophy for this recipe revolves around using wholesome, real ingredients to achieve maximum flavor without relying on processed shortcuts like “cream of something” soups. I believe that fresh garlic and onions elevate the humble potato to new culinary heights, infusing the creamy sauce and tender potatoes with an irresistible depth of flavor. While some might consider them unconventional additions to scalloped potatoes, I highly encourage you to try them – they truly make a difference!

• Butter: The foundation of our rich sauce. Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning, or salted if that’s what you have on hand.
• Flour: This is crucial for creating a velvety smooth white sauce. For those needing a gluten-free option, cornstarch works wonderfully as a thickener. Simply mix 1.5 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1.5 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the sauce after adding the milk. Heat until thickened to your desired consistency.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings are essential to bring out the best in the potatoes and sauce. Adjust to your taste preferences.
• Milk: Any type of milk you have on hand – whole, 2%, or even skim – will work perfectly. There’s no need for heavy cream, keeping the dish rich but not overly decadent.
• Garlic: My special, yet “technically optional,” addition. Minced garlic melts into the sauce, providing an aromatic depth that complements the cheese and potatoes beautifully. Trust me, it’s a must-try!
• Shredded Cheese: The star of our cheesy creation! A good quality, flavorful cheese is key. Sharp cheddar offers a classic, tangy bite, while Fontina (my personal favorite) provides a delightful nuttiness and incredible melt. Gruyere and Gouda are also excellent choices, contributing complex flavors. A combination of several cheeses can create a truly dynamic profile. Feel free to experiment with whatever flavorful cheese you have available – each time offers a slightly different, but always delicious, experience.
• Potatoes: The heart of the dish. I’ve had great success with various types, including golden Yukon, red-skinned, and russet potatoes. Golden Yukons are particularly good for their creamy texture, while russets absorb the sauce beautifully. Red-skinned potatoes hold their shape well. The key is to slice them thinly and uniformly for even cooking.
• Onion: Another “optional but highly recommended” ingredient. Diced onion softens and sweetens as it cooks, adding a savory layer that perfectly balances the richness of the cheese and cream.

Mastering Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes: Step-by-Step Guide

Achieving perfectly tender, cheesy scalloped potatoes in your slow cooker is simpler than you might imagine. While detailed quantities are provided in the recipe card below, these extra tips will guide you through each step, ensuring a flawless and flavorful outcome every time.

Step 1: Achieve Perfect Potato Slices

Beyond the slow cooker, there’s another secret weapon that elevates the ease and quality of your scalloped potatoes: a mandoline slicer. Using a mandoline slicer ensures consistent, paper-thin slices, which is paramount for even cooking. This tool dramatically cuts down prep time compared to hand-slicing with a knife, and the uniform thickness guarantees that all your potato layers cook through simultaneously, resulting in a perfectly tender texture without any hard or mushy spots. (I also frequently use my mandoline to shred cabbage for slaw, a testament to its versatility in the kitchen for achieving crisp, uniform cuts.)

Step 2: Craft the Creamy Cheese Sauce

The heart of these scalloped potatoes is a simple yet decadent white sauce, enhanced with garlic and cheese. Begin by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper to create a smooth roux. Cook this mixture for about a minute, stirring constantly, to cook out the raw flour taste. Then, gradually add the milk, about half a cup at a time, whisking continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth consistency. Continue to whisk over medium heat until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble. At this point, stir in the minced garlic and about two-thirds of your shredded cheese, allowing it to melt into the warm sauce. Reserve the remaining cheese for topping the potatoes later, which will create a beautiful, golden crust.

When it comes to selecting the best cheese, personal preference plays a big role, but some cheeses truly shine in this dish. My absolute favorite is Fontina, which offers a wonderfully nutty flavor and an excellent melt, creating an incredibly smooth and luxurious sauce with a slight “bite.” For a more classic and kid-friendly option, sharp cheddar is always a hit. Gruyere and Gouda also deliver fantastic results, adding complexity and depth. Honestly, any robust, flavorful cheese that melts well will be delicious. This dish is so versatile that you can easily adapt it to whatever cheese you have on hand, or mix and match for a unique flavor profile.

I can confidently say that this slow cooker cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes recipe will become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire. It’s the ideal side dish for holiday feasts, special family get-togethers, or simply when you’re craving that comforting taste of homemade scalloped potatoes without the fuss. Prepare to impress your guests and delight your family with this easy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked dish!

Can I Slice Potatoes for Scalloped Potatoes the Day Before?

While it might seem like a great time-saving hack, slicing raw potatoes for scalloped potatoes the day before and storing them submerged in water in the refrigerator (to prevent graying) is generally not recommended for creamy recipes like this. Soaking potatoes causes them to lose some of their natural starch, which is essential for naturally thickening the sauce. If the potatoes lose too much starch, your cheese sauce might end up thinner than desired. Additionally, extended soaking can sometimes affect the potato’s texture. While you can certainly try it, be aware that it might subtly impact the final consistency of your sauce. For the best results, it’s best to slice your potatoes closer to when you plan to assemble and cook the dish.

To Store and Reheat Your Scalloped Potatoes

Should you be lucky enough to have leftovers of these delicious slow cooker scalloped potatoes, they store wonderfully. Simply transfer any remaining portions to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. For the best reheating experience, gently warm individual servings in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbling. This method helps maintain their creamy texture and prevents drying out. If you’re short on time, the microwave offers a quicker solution: heat at 50% power for 3-5 minutes, stirring halfway, until warmed to your liking. Adjust heating times based on portion size.

More Easy Slow Cooker Recipes to Explore

If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience of slow cooking, here are some other fantastic recipes to try that will make your meal prep even easier:

• Moist Slow Cooker Spiced Whole Chicken
• Slow Cooker Italian Roast Beef
• 19 Easy Slow Cooker Boneless Chicken Thighs Recipes
• Easy Slow Cooker Curried Barley Recipe with Carrots & Onions

A Testimonial We Love

“Made this last night for dinner. It was delicious! So nice to get a side dish ready ahead of time. Like you, I served it with ham and that’s such a great combo. I loved the texture of the potatoes as well as the flavor. Those crispy edges are worth fighting over!” -Norma

This recipe has been updated for improved clarity and user experience. It was originally published in 2013, with updates in 2016 and again in 2023.

Disclosure: affiliate links in this article will earn commission based on sales, but it doesn’t change your price. Click here to read my full disclaimer and advertising disclosure.