Slow-Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes (Printable Version)

# What You’ll Need:

01 - 3 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (⅛-inch)
02 - 1 large onion, thinly sliced
03 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream
04 - 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (freshly grated recommended)
05 - 1 cup condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - ½ teaspoon dried thyme
08 - ¾ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
09 - ½ teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste)
10 - 1½ cups heavy cream (additional, if needed)
11 - Optional for garnish: chopped chives or parsley

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a small skillet, melt a little butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until softened (~4–5 min). This enhances sweetness and flavor.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine one cup of cheddar, cream of chicken soup, one cup of heavy cream, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.
03 - Grease your slow cooker insert. Add half of the sliced potatoes, sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Spread half of the cooked onions on top. Pour half of the sauce evenly over. Repeat layering with remaining potatoes, onions, and sauce. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheddar on top. Optionally, pour the extra ½ cup cream over for extra richness.
04 - Cover and cook on HIGH for 4–5 hours or LOW for 6–8 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender.
05 - If the sauce seems too runny, dissolve 1–2 tablespoons of cornstarch in cold water and stir into the potatoes about 30 minutes before serving. Let cook uncovered on High until thickened.
06 - Let stand for 15 minutes (sauce will thicken slightly). Garnish with chopped chives or parsley before serving.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Cheese choice matters: Freshly-grated cheddar (not pre-packaged) melts best and avoids slick, grainy textures.
02 - Even slices = even cooking: A mandoline slicer helps ensure uniform potato thickness.
03 - Versatile add-ins: Stir in diced ham, crumbled bacon, or mushrooms mid-cooking for extra flavor.
04 - Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream with milk and add a bit more cornstarch for body.
05 - Rest before serving: Letting it sit enhances consistency and flavor melding.