Description
Hearty Pioneer Woman Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes blend creamy Wisconsin cheddar with russet potato slices for comfort cuisine perfection. Slow-cooker magic creates a rich, golden side dish that welcomes family gatherings with irresistible warmth and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 pounds Russet potatoes (approximately 4 large), peeled and thinly sliced
- 1.5 cups sharp white Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1.5 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 2.5 cups heavy cream
Dairy and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1.5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Herbs and Spices:
- 4 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, finely chopped, extra for garnish
- 1.5 teaspoons black pepper, extra for garnish
Additional:
- Nonstick cooking spray for greasing
Instructions
- Transform butter into a silky base by gently melting it in a large skillet over medium-low heat (62°C / 144°F). Introduce finely chopped onions and allow them to become translucent and soft, requiring approximately 4-6 minutes of patient cooking.
- Infuse aromatic depth by incorporating minced garlic into the onion mixture. Stir continuously for an additional minute, releasing the garlic’s fragrant essence.
- Craft a foundational roux by introducing the remaining butter to the skillet. Once completely liquefied, incorporate flour and whisk persistently until the mixture achieves a light golden-brown consistency and smooth texture, which typically takes about 1 minute.
- Develop a luxurious sauce by gradually introducing heavy cream, whisking methodically to prevent any potential lumping. Integrate kosher salt, freshly chopped thyme, and ground black pepper. Elevate the heat to medium and allow the sauce to simmer, thickening for approximately 5 minutes.
- Finalize the cheese sauce by removing the skillet from heat. Gradually fold in shredded Cheddar and Gruyere cheeses, creating a smooth, velvety consistency through gentle whisking.
- Prepare the slow cooker by thoroughly coating its interior with nonstick cooking spray. Construct strategic layers by distributing sliced potatoes in even thirds, alternating with generous pourings of cheese sauce. Ensure the final layer is a decadent coating of cheese sauce.
- Initiate slow cooking by securing the lid and setting the appliance to LOW temperature. Allow the dish to transform over 6 to 7 hours, verifying doneness by effortlessly inserting a knife through the potatoes.
- Complete the culinary experience by allowing the dish to rest uncovered for 20 minutes, enabling further thickening. Enhance presentation by sprinkling additional fresh thyme and a delicate dusting of black pepper before serving.
Notes
- Slow cooking transforms ordinary potatoes into a luxurious, creamy comfort food experience that’ll wow your dinner guests.
- Minimal prep work means you can assemble this cheesy delight quickly and let the slow cooker do the magic.
- Layering technique ensures every potato slice gets completely bathed in a rich, velvety cheese sauce.
- Gruyere and Cheddar blend creates a complex, nutty flavor that elevates this classic potato side dish beyond expectations.
- Weekend meal prep becomes a breeze with this make-ahead friendly recipe that keeps warm and tastes even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 727 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 645 mg
- Fat: 55 g
- Saturated Fat: 34 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 49 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 155 mg