Slow Cooker Potato Gratin

By Paula

This Slow Cooker Potato Gratin is a creamy, cheesy, and effortless side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Using a slow cooker frees up your oven space while allowing the potatoes to become tender and infused with rich flavors. With layers of golden Yukon potatoes, cheddar cheese, and a hint of garlic, this dish is pure comfort food.

Quick Benefits

  • Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work for you.
  • Oven-Free Side Dish: Perfect for holiday meals when oven space is limited.
  • Creamy & Cheesy: A rich blend of Cheddar and Parmesan cheese enhances flavor.
  • Customizable: Adjust seasonings or cheese types to suit your taste.

Essential Ingredients

  • 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes – Thinly sliced for a tender texture.
  • 1 1/2 cups milk – Creates a creamy base.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream chive dip – Adds tanginess and depth of flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons butter – Enhances richness.
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the cheese sauce.
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided – Balances flavors.
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully for a gooey texture.
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a savory, nutty flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – For a mild kick.
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion, divided – Provides a subtle sweetness.
  • Chopped fresh chives – For garnish and freshness.

Preparation Steps

  1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Line a 6-quart slow cooker with a liner or coat with nonstick spray.
  2. Make the Sauce:
    • Whisk milk and sour cream dip in a bowl.
    • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt, and cook for 1 minute.
    • Stir in milk mixture and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute.
    • Remove from heat and stir in Cheddar cheese until melted.
  3. Mix Parmesan Seasoning: In a bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and black pepper.
  4. Layer the Ingredients:
    • Place half of the potato slices in the slow cooker.
    • Sprinkle with half of the Parmesan mixture and half of the chopped onion.
    • Pour half of the cheese sauce over the layers.
    • Repeat the layers with remaining potatoes, Parmesan mixture, onions, and cheese sauce.
  5. Cook:
    • Cover the slow cooker with paper towels under the lid to absorb excess moisture.
    • Cook on High for 3 to 4 hours, replacing paper towels once halfway through.
  6. Garnish & Serve: Once the potatoes are tender, sprinkle with fresh chives and serve warm.

Health Benefits

  • Good Source of Potassium: Yukon potatoes help maintain healthy blood pressure.
  • Calcium-Rich: Cheddar and Parmesan provide a good dose of calcium for bone health.
  • No Heavy Cream: Uses milk and sour cream dip instead of heavy cream for a lighter texture.
  • Fiber Boost: The potatoes and onions add dietary fiber for digestive health.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Roasted Meats: Pair with roast chicken, turkey, or steak.
  • Alongside Grilled Vegetables: Complements zucchini, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
  • Brunch Side Dish: Serve with eggs and bacon for a hearty breakfast.

Creative Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for extra heat.
  • Cheese Blend: Try Gruyère or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
  • Bacon Lovers’ Edition: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits between layers.
  • Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based milk, dairy-free cheese, and vegan butter.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze portions in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Warm in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Pro Tips

  • Slice Potatoes Evenly: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices that cook evenly.
  • Prevent Soggy Potatoes: Using paper towels under the lid helps absorb moisture.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble ingredients ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use another type of potato?
A: Yes! Russet potatoes work well but may be slightly starchier.

Q: Can I cook this on Low instead of High?
A: Yes, but it will take about 6 to 7 hours on Low.

Q: How can I make this extra crispy?
A: Transfer the cooked gratin to an oven-safe dish and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Enjoy this Slow Cooker Potato Gratin, a creamy and cheesy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

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Slow Cooker Potato Gratin

This Slow Cooker Potato Gratin is a rich, cheesy, and comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with tender Yukon gold potatoes, creamy cheese sauce, and flavorful seasonings, this dish cooks effortlessly in the slow cooker, freeing up oven space for holiday meals or family dinners.

  • Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

  • 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes – Thinly sliced for a tender texture.
  • 1 1/2 cups milk – Creates a creamy base.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream chive dip – Adds tanginess and depth of flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons butter – Enhances richness.
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the cheese sauce.
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided – Balances flavors.
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully for a gooey texture.
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a savory, nutty flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – For a mild kick.
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion, divided – Provides a subtle sweetness.
  • Chopped fresh chives – For garnish and freshness.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Line a 6-quart slow cooker with a liner or coat with nonstick spray.
  2. Make the Sauce:

    • Whisk milk and sour cream dip in a bowl.
    • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt, and cook for 1 minute.
    • Stir in milk mixture and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute.
    • Remove from heat and stir in Cheddar cheese until melted.

  3. Mix Parmesan Seasoning: In a bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and black pepper.
  4. Layer the Ingredients:

    • Place half of the potato slices in the slow cooker.
    • Sprinkle with half of the Parmesan mixture and half of the chopped onion.
    • Pour half of the cheese sauce over the layers.
    • Repeat the layers with remaining potatoes, Parmesan mixture, onions, and cheese sauce.

  5. Cook:

    • Cover the slow cooker with paper towels under the lid to absorb excess moisture.
    • Cook on High for 3 to 4 hours, replacing paper towels once halfway through.

  6. Garnish & Serve: Once the potatoes are tender, sprinkle with fresh chives and serve warm.
  • Author: Paula
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Cuisine: American, French-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 286 per serving

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