Crockpot Au Gratin Potatoes
If you’re searching for a side dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting, look no further than these Crockpot Au Gratin Potatoes. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this dish takes the classic flavors of au gratin potatoes and simplifies them into a slow-cooked masterpiece. Imagine tender baby gold potatoes enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, all thanks to your trusty crockpot. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
What Makes This Recipe Special
Crockpot Au Gratin Potatoes are not just another side dish; they embody the essence of comfort food. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a creamy texture that’s hard to resist. Plus, the use of baby gold potatoes ensures that each bite is buttery and tender. It’s a hands-off dish that frees you up to focus on the main course or other preparations.
The Ingredient Lineup
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 5 cups baby gold potatoes – peeled and thinly sliced (see note 1)
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – for richness
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – for aromatic flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – for depth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – to thicken the sauce
- 1-1/2 cups milk – I recommend whole (see note 2)
- 1/2 cup sour cream – I recommend full-fat for creaminess
- 1-1/2 cups Cheddar cheese – sharp or extra-sharp (see note 3)
- Fresh parsley or chives – optional, for topping
Kitchen Gear Checklist
To make this delicious Crockpot Au Gratin Potatoes, gather the following kitchen essentials:
- Crockpot – your best friend in slow cooking!
- Knife – for slicing the potatoes
- Cutting board – to keep your workspace tidy
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements
- Whisk – ideal for combining the milk and sour cream
- Spatula – for mixing everything together
Crockpot Au Gratin Potatoes in Steps
Creating this dish is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and thinly slicing the baby gold potatoes. Aim for even slices to ensure uniform cooking.
Step 2: Seasoning and Butter
In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss until the potatoes are evenly coated with seasonings.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Let it thicken slightly before removing from heat. Stir in the sour cream and cheddar cheese until smooth.
Step 4: Layering in the Crockpot
Grease your crockpot with a little butter. Layer half of the seasoned potatoes in the bottom. Pour half of the cheese sauce over them. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once cooked, give it a gentle stir. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of your Crockpot Au Gratin Potatoes!
Warm & Cool Weather Spins
These Crockpot Au Gratin Potatoes are versatile enough to shine in any season. Here are some ideas to switch things up:
- Warm Weather: Pair with grilled meats or a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
- Cool Weather: Serve alongside hearty stews or roasted meats for a comforting feast.
- Festive Occasions: Perfect for holiday dinners, Thanksgiving, or potlucks.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Gruyère for a unique twist.
Avoid These Traps
While making Crockpot Au Gratin Potatoes is straightforward, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Overcrowding the Crockpot: Layering too many potatoes can prevent even cooking.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t skip the salt, pepper, and spices; they enhance the flavor!
- Using Low-Quality Cheese: Opt for sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for a richer taste.
- Not Allowing Enough Cooking Time: Ensure the potatoes are tender before serving; they need adequate time to cook.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because they are so delicious!), here’s how to handle them:
Crockpot Au Gratin Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce. They also make a fantastic base for breakfast; simply reheat and top with a fried egg or add to a breakfast casserole.
Questions People Ask
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby gold potatoes are ideal for their creaminess, you can substitute with Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of potato used.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the layers of potatoes and cheese sauce ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply layer them in the crockpot and set it to cook.
What can I serve with Crockpot Au Gratin Potatoes?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, including Garlic Herb Butter Crockpot Pot Roast, baked chicken, or grilled fish. It’s a versatile side that complements many flavors.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover au gratin potatoes! Place them in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven until heated through.
One Pan, More Ideas
If you love the simplicity and comfort of one-pan meals, here are some more delicious ideas to explore:
- Cassies Crockpot Chicken And Noodles – a hearty, wholesome meal.
- Zucchini And Cheese Bake – a veggie-packed dish that’s equally satisfying.
- Crockpot Chili: An easy, flavorful meal perfect for chilly days.
- Crockpot Beef Stew: A classic that never goes out of style.
Save & Share
If you loved this recipe for Crockpot Au Gratin Potatoes, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Cooking is always better when shared with loved ones.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to treat yourself, these creamy, cheesy potatoes are sure to impress. They bring warmth and comfort to the table, making every meal feel special. Happy cooking!
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Crockpot Au Gratin Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling and thinly slicing the baby gold potatoes. Aim for even slices to ensure uniform cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss until the potatoes are evenly coated with seasonings.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Let it thicken slightly before removing from heat. Stir in the sour cream and cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Grease your crockpot with a little butter. Layer half of the seasoned potatoes in the bottom. Pour half of the cheese sauce over them. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly.
- Once cooked, give it a gentle stir. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of your Crockpot Au Gratin Potatoes!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently, adding milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
- These potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
