These slow cooker scalloped potatoes are the kind of low-effort, high-reward side dish that disappears fast at summer gatherings, potlucks, and family reunions. Using thin-sliced Clearwater Russet potatoes keeps prep simple and helps every layer turn tender in the creamy sauce without hovering over the oven, and that bubbling, golden top gives all the cozy comfort of classic scalloped potatoes with barely any hands-on work.
Serve these potatoes alongside grilled chicken, barbecue ribs, burgers, ham, or roast beef for an easy crowd-pleasing meal. They also fit right in on a holiday-style buffet with green beans, corn on the cob, a crisp salad, or fresh fruit, and if you are feeding a big group, they hold well in the slow cooker on warm until everyone is ready to eat.
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Summer Reunion Bubbling Cream Scalloped Potatoes using Thin-Sliced Clearwater Russet Potatoes
Servings: 10 to 12
Ingredients
3 pounds thin-sliced Clearwater Russet potatoes
2 cups heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 packet onion soup mix
2 tablespoons butter, softened
Directions
1. Lightly butter the inside of an oval slow cooker, making sure the bottom and sides are coated so the potatoes release more easily after cooking.
2. Add one layer of sliced potatoes to the slow cooker, then sprinkle on some onion soup mix, a handful of cheddar, and a drizzle of cream. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cream and cheese on top.
3. Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is hot and bubbling around the edges.
4. Turn the slow cooker to warm and let the potatoes rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly. Spoon onto plates or into a serving bowl and serve hot.
Variations & Tips
Add garlic: For a little extra flavor, stir 1 to 2 teaspoons of garlic powder into the cream before layering. It gives the dish a deeper savory note without adding more prep.
Cheese swap: Sharp cheddar brings a classic flavor, but a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts especially smoothly. If you want a slightly richer finish for a special occasion, a little Gruyere also works well.
Make-ahead tip: If you are hosting a busy event, layer everything in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, set the insert out while the slow cooker base warms up, then start cooking so the dish is ready without a last-minute rush.
For a larger crowd: This recipe doubles well if you have a large slow cooker or want to prepare two cookers side by side. That is my favorite way to handle reunion meals, because even a double batch tends to go fast once everyone starts scooping.