Golden Scalloped Katahdin Potatoes – Creamy Slow Cooker Potato Recipe

Introduction

Golden Scalloped Katahdin Potatoes are the ultimate comfort-food side dish, featuring tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Using Katahdin potatoes gives this classic recipe a wonderfully fluffy texture that absorbs the seasoned cream while maintaining its shape. Prepared in a slow cooker, these scalloped potatoes develop deep, savory flavors and a beautifully golden cheese topping with minimal effort. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, potlucks, or weekend comfort meals, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite at any table.

Ingredients

Servings: 8–10

• 3 pounds Katahdin potatoes, scrubbed and very thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
• 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• Butter or nonstick cooking spray, for greasing the slow cooker

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Grease the inside of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with butter or nonstick cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and ensures easy serving.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Scrub the Katahdin potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. Leave the skins on for a rustic appearance or peel them if desired. Slice the potatoes very thinly, about 1/8 inch thick, using a mandoline or a sharp knife.

Step 3: Make the Cream Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the heavy cream and kosher salt. Stir until the salt is mostly dissolved. This seasoned cream will create the rich, silky sauce throughout the dish.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

Arrange a thin layer of potato slices across the bottom of the slow cooker, slightly overlapping them. Sprinkle a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes.

Continue layering potatoes, a light drizzle of the salted cream, and cheese. Repeat until all the potatoes have been used, reserving about 1 cup of cheese for the final topping. Pour any remaining cream evenly over the top layer.

Step 5: Add the Final Cheese Layer

Sprinkle the reserved 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This layer will melt into a golden, bubbly crust during cooking.

Step 6: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook:

• HIGH: 3 to 4 hours
• LOW: 6 to 7 hours

The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender and the edges are bubbling. Avoid lifting the lid frequently, as this can increase cooking time.

Step 7: Optional Broiling

For an extra golden and slightly crisp top, place the oven-safe slow cooker insert under a preheated broiler for 3 to 5 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for at least 15 minutes before serving. This helps the creamy sauce thicken and the layers set for easier serving.

Serve warm directly from the slow cooker and keep it on the WARM setting during gatherings for easy second helpings.

Conclusion

Golden Scalloped Katahdin Potatoes deliver everything you want in a comforting side dish—creamy layers, tender potatoes, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese. Whether you’re serving them alongside a holiday roast, barbecue favorites, or a simple family dinner, these slow-cooked potatoes bring warmth and homemade goodness to every meal. Easy to prepare and always crowd-pleasing, this recipe is a timeless classic you’ll return to again and again.