slow cooker au gratin potatoes recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best slow cooker au gratin potatoes recipe

I’m so excited to share this slow cooker au gratin potatoes recipe with you all. I’ve been making it for my family for years, and it’s always a hit.

The dish originates from the French cuisine, where it’s known as ‘pommes de terre au gratin.’ It’s a simple yet elegant side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday dinner or a casual weeknight meal.

The key to making this recipe is to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh potatoes and good-quality cheese. I like to use a mix of cheddar and Parmesan for the best flavor.

When you cook the potatoes in the slow cooker, they come out tender and creamy, with just the right amount of browning on top. My kids love helping me prepare this dish, and they’re always eager to be my taste-testers.

We like to serve it alongside roasted meats or as a main course on its own. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.

Simply slice the potatoes, layer them in the slow cooker with some cheese and seasonings, and let the appliance do the rest. This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a delicious and stress-free meal option.

Slow Cooker Au Gratin Potatoes

4.5 from 658 votes

Creamy, cheesy au gratin potatoes made effortlessly in the slow cooker. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes are cooked in a rich cheese sauce until tender and golden.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 20 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Potatoes

2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Sauce

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, flour, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth and no lumps remain.
2Set the sauce mixture aside.
3Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray.
4Arrange one third of the potato slices in an even layer on the bottom, then top with one third of the onion slices and one third of the cheddar cheese.
5Pour one third of the cream mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
6Repeat the layering process two more times, ending with the remaining cheddar cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese on top.
7Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the sauce is bubbly and thickened.
8Do not lift the lid during cooking.
9Turn off the slow cooker and let the potatoes rest, uncovered, for 10 minutes to allow the sauce to set slightly.
10Serve hot directly from the slow cooker or transfer to a serving dish.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Vegetable peeler

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 14g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 580mg🌾Total Carbs: 22g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 12g

📝Notes

For a golden top, you can transfer the cooked potatoes to a baking dish and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and browned. To reduce richness, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Au Gratin Potatoes Works

This slow cooker au gratin potatoes recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It’s perfect for family gatherings or when you need a comforting meal after a long day.

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for later use. When reheating, simply transfer the dish to the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Au Gratin Potatoes

What is au gratin potatoes?

Au gratin potatoes are a French-inspired dish made by layering sliced potatoes with cheese and baking until golden brown.

Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh?

While you can use frozen potatoes as a substitute, keep in mind that they may not yield the same texture and flavor as fresh potatoes.

How long does it take to cook au gratin potatoes in a slow cooker?

The cooking time will depend on your slow cooker’s settings, but typically it takes around 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high.

Can I add other ingredients to customize the recipe?

Yes, feel free to add your favorite herbs, spices, or other toppings to give the dish your personal touch.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

A combination of cheddar and Parmesan provides an excellent balance of flavors and textures.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but if you’re using any animal-derived cheese alternatives, be sure to check their ingredients before serving.

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