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The Ultimate Slow Cooker Comfort Food

Introduction

When it comes to creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious side dishes, Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes are a game-changer. Whether you’re preparing a holiday meal or just want a cozy, home-cooked dish, using a slow cooker makes the process effortless. These slow-cooked au gratin potatoes are layered with tender slices of potato, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and a blend of flavorful seasonings that make every bite irresistible.

The beauty of Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes is that they free up oven space, making them perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering. Plus, with the right ingredients and techniques, you’ll get perfectly cooked potatoes every time—without the risk of burning or drying out.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes, from choosing the right potatoes to layering them for even cooking. Follow along, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients for the Best Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes

To make Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create the perfect creamy, cheesy texture.

Essential Ingredients:

Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold work best for the right texture.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere for a rich flavor.
Butter: Adds creaminess and depth to the sauce.
Heavy Cream & Milk: The base of the smooth cheese sauce.
Flour: Helps thicken the sauce.
Garlic & Onion Powder: Enhances the overall flavor.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings for balance.
Paprika (Optional): Adds a mild smoky flavor.

Variations & Additions:

Want to switch things up? Try these ideas:

Add ham or bacon for a meaty, smoky flavor.
Use different cheeses like Gouda or Parmesan for a new twist.
Make it spicy with jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Go dairy-free by using coconut milk and dairy-free cheese.

Choosing the Right Potatoes for Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes

The key to perfect Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes lies in selecting the right type of potatoes.

Best Potato Choices:

Russet Potatoes: High in starch, making them extra creamy.
Yukon Gold Potatoes: Hold their shape well and add a buttery flavor.

How to Slice Potatoes for Even Cooking:

Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin slices.
Aim for ⅛ to ¼ inch thickness—too thick and they won’t cook evenly, too thin and they may turn mushy.
Soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch, preventing them from sticking together.

How to Make Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes

Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes

Start by washing and peeling your potatoes. Slice them uniformly to ensure even cooking. Soaking the potatoes in cold water helps remove excess starch and prevents them from sticking together during cooking.

Step 2: Making the Creamy Cheese Sauce

The secret to the perfect Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes is in the sauce. Here’s how to make it:

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth.
Add shredded cheese, stirring until completely melted.
Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 3: Layering the Potatoes and Sauce

To get the best texture, layer everything properly:

Spread a thin layer of cheese sauce at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add a single layer of potato slices.
Repeat this process until all potatoes and sauce are used.

Step 4: Cooking in the Crock Pot

Cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
Check for doneness by inserting a fork—it should glide in effortlessly.
Optional: Sprinkle extra cheese on top 30 minutes before serving for extra cheesiness.

Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes

Use freshly shredded cheese (pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy).
Don’t overcook—too long in the crock pot can make the potatoes mushy.
Stir gently before serving to mix in any sauce that may have settled.

Delicious Variations of Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes

Add Meat for Extra Flavor

Ham: Adds a savory, smoky touch.
Bacon: Crispy bacon bits mixed in create a fantastic contrast in texture.

Try Different Cheese Combinations

Gruyere + Cheddar: Rich and nutty.
Monterey Jack + Parmesan: Creamy with a sharp bite.

Serving Suggestions for Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes

Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes pair well with:

Roast beef or turkey for holiday meals.
Grilled chicken or pork chops for an everyday dinner.
Steamed veggies and salad for a balanced meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Use the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using waxy potatoes—they don’t absorb the sauce well.
Skipping the flour in the sauce—this thickens the mixture and prevents a watery dish.
Overcooking—watch the time carefully!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly shredded cheese melts better, but pre-shredded can work in a pinch.

2. Can I make Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! Prep everything, store it in the fridge overnight, and start cooking the next day.

3. How do I make the sauce thicker?

Use more flour or reduce the milk slightly for a thicker consistency.

4. Can I freeze Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes?

It’s not recommended as the texture can change after thawing.

5. What’s the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes use a milk-based sauce, while Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes have a cheesy sauce.

Final Thoughts

Making Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes is an easy way to prepare a comforting and delicious side dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, they’ll always be a crowd-pleaser.

Try this Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes recipe today and enjoy creamy, cheesy perfection with every bite!

10 Irresistible Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes