cheesy scalloped potatoes crockpot just always feels right for the holidays, right? It’s one of those dishes that looks fancy but comes together with about as much effort as putting on socks. Maybe you’ve hosted before and spent hours juggling oven space, sweating like you’re being interrogated. Been there. Or maybe you’ve burnt the potatoes trying to do seven things at once (not admitting anything). Either way, this dish gives you cheesy, perfectly cooked potatoes straight out of your slow cooker while you focus on what really matters—panicking about the turkey or forgetting to chill the wine. 
Why Make Scalloped Potatoes in a Crockpot
Look, I seriously don’t understand folks who still try to make scalloped potatoes in the oven when cheesy scalloped potatoes crockpot style is a thing. You just toss everything in, let it cook, and forget about it. (Okay, don’t actually forget. Set a timer, trust me.) No burnt edges, no crusty pans, and your kitchen doesn’t feel like the inside of a sauna by the time guests show up.
Honestly, I started using a slow cooker because my cousin always “needed” the oven for her “famous” mac and cheese. Psh. With the crockpot, your potatoes turn out creamy and tender each time, plus you free up the oven for whatever else you’ve got going on. You want the real kicker? If you’re short on prep time, there’s nothing easier than these dump go cheesy scalloped potatoes crock pot (check ’em out if you’re curious about the easiest method ever).
My family went bonkers the first year I made them this way. Total game changer.
“I never knew potatoes could taste this good and still be easy!” — my Aunt Judy, notorious holiday food snob.
Simple Ingredient List
No need for a ten-mile grocery list here. These cheesy scalloped potatoes crockpot style call for stuff you probably have right now. You’ll just need:
- A mess of potatoes (Russet, yellow, whatever’s on sale. Just slice ’em thin but don’t fuss too much)
- Shredded cheddar— sharp is better (the orange stuff, don’t overthink it)
- A couple cloves of garlic (I go heavy because I’m a garlic fiend)
- Cream or milk (depends on how rich you want it)
- Butter, obviously
- Salt, pepper, maybe a little paprika if you’re feeling spicy
Optional? Add some sliced onions, or swap in pepper jack cheese if you’re wild like that. This isn’t one of those recipes that yells at you if you improvise.
How to Layer for Best Texture
There’s a little trick to layering your cheesy scalloped potatoes crockpot style so they come out extra creamy instead of sad and soggy. First, always start with a thin swipe of butter on the bottom of the slow cooker—not just to keep things from sticking, but for the flavor too.
Next, do a thin layer of potato slices. Don’t try for potato perfection. Overlapping a little? That’s fine. Sprinkle on some salt, pepper, and a generous handful of cheese. Tuck in a few garlic slices. Layer again—potatoes, then cheese, then a pour of your cream mixture.
The most important part (in my very humble opinion): make sure you end with cheese on the very top. That way when it cooks, you get a gorgeous, golden layer. Skip this and you’ll miss out on the best bites! I got this tip from a friend who runs a barbecue spot and my life has not been the same since.
If you haven’t tried this method, you’ll see what I mean. Or you could check out this easy crockpot chicken and potatoes recipe for more layering practice.
Cook Time & Tips
Alright, here’s the real talk on timing for cheesy scalloped potatoes crockpot style. On low you’re looking at about 4 to 5 hours, but I check at the 4-hour mark if I’m antsy (like, if guests are hovering). On high, 2 to 2.5 hours usually does the job, but things can go from perfect to mush fast so keep an eye.
Pro tip? Don’t overfill the slow cooker or you’ll get unevenly cooked potatoes. If you’re doubling for a big crowd, borrow another slow cooker or do it in two rounds. And for the love of all things cheesy, don’t skip the spray or butter on the bottom or you’ll be chiseling potatoes off later.
I once used pre-shredded cheese to save time, but it didn’t melt as nice. So if you have even a few minutes, shred your own cheese. Is it a pain? Maybe. Is it worth it? Oh, one hundred percent. For even creamier results, stir in a scoop of sour cream at the end. (Wild, right?)
How to Keep Creamy When Serving
Here’s another thing—no one wants grainy, dried-out potatoes sitting on a holiday buffet. I learned this after one unfortunate Friendsgiving. So, after your cheesy scalloped potatoes crockpot batch finishes, switch your slow cooker to “keep warm.” If it gets too thick, stir in a splash of warm milk or more cream right before serving.
Don’t keep the lid off for long, or the top gets weirdly crusty. And if you get distracted (which happens every single time), just give things a gentle stir and add a little butter. It’s like hitting refresh on that creamy texture.
If you know you’ll be going back for seconds (and come on, you will), do this little trick: keep a little extra cheese and cream aside to sprinkle on top just before serving. Makes a world of difference. Speaking of sides, if you want THE fluffiest mashed potatoes in your life, peek at the creamest crock pot slow cooker mashed potatoes thanksgiving recipe. You’ll thank me later.
Serving with Ham or Roast
Pairing these cheesy scalloped potatoes crockpot style is like, the easiest thing for a holiday spread. In my house, the rules are simple:
- Absolutely a must next to glazed ham (seriously, it’s illegal not to)
- Works just as well with roast beef or pork loin
- They get along with green beans, roasted carrots, and even (brace yourself) cranberry sauce
- Makes the perfect leftover breakfast with a fried egg on top
Honestly, if you serve these potatoes and folks don’t ask for the recipe, I’ll eat my hat. Oh, and we sometimes add a splash of hot sauce at the table. Regional thing? Maybe. Best bite ever? Definitely.
Common Questions
Can I prep cheesy scalloped potatoes crockpot recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Slice your potatoes and cheese, store in the fridge overnight, then layer and cook fresh the next day.
Will Yukon Gold potatoes work?
Absolutely. Any potato with thin skin is golden. (See what I did there?)
Can I add bacon or other goodies?
You, my friend, are after my own heart. Toss in diced ham, cooked bacon, or even a handful of green onions. Go wild.
What if my slow cooker runs hot?
It happens. Check potatoes at the 3-hour mark and poke with a fork. If they’re soft and creamy, you’re ready to roll.
Is there a way to make it less rich?
Sure. Use milk instead of cream and go a little lighter on cheese. (But really, why would you?)
Try These Potatoes for Your Next Holiday Spread
So that’s my rant—er, I mean helpful guide—to cheesy scalloped potatoes crockpot joy. You just get simple ingredients, a quick layering trick, and hands-off time so you can focus on the chaos (the fun) of holidays. This is the kind of dish that’ll make you look like a five-star restaurant chef when really you just read a blog from a potato-loving home cook.
If you want more inspiration, check out this Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes – Simply Happy Foodie. Or go wild and make these for Easter, Sunday supper, or whenever you get the urge for cheesy goodness.
Ready to join the club? Give it a try and share what you thought! If you’re hosting a big group, don’t miss these crowd-pleasing party recipes like this cheesy bacon dip game day crock pot recipe or cheesy queso dip chorizo crock pot party hit—your slow cooker’s never been this appreciated. 
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Crockpot
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and cheesy potato dish made effortlessly in a slow cooker, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
- 6–8 medium potatoes (Russet or yellow, thinly sliced)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: Paprika, sliced onions, or pepper jack cheese
Instructions
- Butter the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Start with a layer of potato slices.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, and a handful of cheese over the layer.
- Add a few garlic slices on top.
- Repeat layers of potatoes, seasonings, cheese, and garlic until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
- Pour the cream or milk mixture over the layered potatoes.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-2.5 hours, checking for doneness.
- Switch to ‘keep warm’ setting after cooking.
- If too thick, stir in a splash of warm milk or cream before serving.
Notes
For even creamier results, stir in sour cream before serving. Keep leftovers warm and stir occasionally.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
