3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Au Gratin Potatoes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Only 3 main ingredients budget-friendly and pantry simple
Hands-off slow cooker recipe no oven space needed
Ultra-creamy texture tender potato layers soaked in cheesy sauce
Perfect for holidays & potlucks stays warm and serves a crowd
Beginner-friendly no fancy techniques or equipment
When you need an easy yet impressive comfort food side dish, these slow cooker au gratin potatoes deliver every time. Inspired by classic French gratin but simplified for modern kitchens, this recipe transforms humble potatoes into a rich, cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth dish—all with minimal prep.
Instead of babysitting an oven, the slow cooker gently cooks thin potato layers in cream and cheese, creating a silky sauce that coats every bite. The result? A cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that tastes indulgent but couldn’t be easier to make.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours (LOW)
Ingredients:
2½–3 lb russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
3 cups shredded cheese (sharp Cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend)
2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
Optional (recommended for best flavor):
Salt, black pepper, butter or nonstick spray for the slow cooker
Directions:
Slice potatoes into even rounds (about ⅛-inch thick). Rinse briefly in cold water and pat dry this helps keep the layers creamy, not gummy.
Lightly butter or spray the crock to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
Add a single layer of potatoes, sprinkle with cheese, and lightly season if using salt and pepper. Repeat layers until finished, ending with cheese on top.
Slowly pour the cream evenly over the layers. The liquid should reach near the top but not fully cover the potatoes.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender and the sauce is bubbling.
Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken. Spoon through layers so each serving gets plenty of cheesy goodness.
Serving Ideas:
These cheesy slow cooker potatoes pair beautifully with:
Roast chicken, steak
Meatloaf or sausages
Roasted vegetables and a crisp green salad
They’re equally perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Variations & Pro Tips:
Extra flavor: Use Gruyère or smoked Gouda for a deeper, richer taste
Lighter option: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half
Aromatic boost: Rub the slow cooker with a cut garlic clove
Golden top: Transfer to a baking dish and broil with extra cheese for 2–3 minutes
Feeding a crowd: Double the recipe using a larger slow cooker
