There’s nothing more comforting than digging into a dish of tender, cheesy scalloped potatoes. When you let them slow-cook all day, they become even more irresistible.
This recipe gently infuses garlic and fresh thyme, resulting in a crowd-pleasing side that’s so easy, it practically cooks itself.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Begin by preparing your slow cooker. Lightly coat the inside with the softened butter, ensuring every surface is covered. Arrange a third of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker, then sprinkle with a few onion slices, some garlic, a pinch of thyme, salt, and pepper. Follow with a generous handful of cheddar and mozzarella.
Build two more layers the same way: potatoes, onion, garlic, seasonings, and cheese. Finish by slowly pouring the half-and-half or heavy cream over the top, allowing it to seep between the layers. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for about 6 to 7 hours, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbling.
For a beautiful golden crust, uncover and switch your slow cooker to its “high” setting for an additional 15 minutes. Let the scalloped potatoes rest for about 5 minutes to help the sauce thicken before serving piping hot.
Slipping a spatula under the potatoes, plate up generous servings as a holiday side or a comforting companion to simple roasted meats or hearty salads.
Once ready, garnish with a few extra thyme leaves for a fresh and vibrant touch.
Whether you’re treating a houseful of hungry guests or looking for a cozy weeknight dinner addition, these creamy garlic and thyme scalloped potatoes are the ticket to fuss-free comfort. They’re vegetarian and can be made gluten-free if you choose a suitable cream and cheese. If you want a flavor twist, try smoked Gouda instead of cheddar or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth. However you serve it, this dish is sure to make everyone feel at home.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
