Let’s talk about the unsung hero of every holiday table: Au Gratin Potatoes. Cheesy, creamy, tender, indulgent… basically the Beyoncé of side dishes. And guess what? You don’t even need your oven. Yep — these Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes basically cook themselves while you sip wine, wrestle a turkey, or hide in the pantry eating chocolate chips. Whatever your holiday style is, your slow cooker is about to become your new best friend.
And hey, if you're a potato lover like me (aka: a person of culture), you'll definitely want to check out some of our other beloved potato recipes too. Other delicious potato options we love are these Scalloped Potatoes, or these Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes — both pretty amazing options if you want to keep the cheesy-carb party going.
With buttery layers of Yukon gold potatoes, melty cheddar, and a homemade cheese sauce that magically drips into every delicious crevice, this recipe gives you all the classic comfort with almost zero effort.
Why This Recipe Works
- Hands-off cooking — The crock pot does 95% of the work. You just slice, whisk, pour, and walk away like the kitchen genius you are.
- Yukon gold potatoes stay tender, creamy, and never grainy.
- Homemade cheese sauce means no gloopy canned soup shortcuts — just pure, cheesy goodness.
- Perfect for holidays or busy weeknights, especially when oven space is in short supply (looking at you, Thanksgiving turkey).
It’s comfort food made easy… dangerously easy.
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What is My Take on Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes?
My take? Keep it classic but make it richer, creamier, and even more crowd-pleasing. Yukon gold potatoes are the star because they hold up beautifully while soaking in all that luscious, cheesy sauce.
And then there’s the crock pot magic: the gentle, slow cooking turns each layer into soft, melty potato perfection. You don’t have to stir, you don’t have to hover — the hardest part is resisting the urge to lift the lid and peek (don’t do it!).
If you're looking for a fuss-free side dish that still feels luxurious and homemade, this is the recipe.
Make It a Meal
These dreamy potatoes fit effortlessly alongside big, show-stopping mains:
- Serve with Honey Ham
- Pair with Roasted Turkey
- Or go bold with Roasted Duck
Basically, if it’s a holiday meat, this dish wants to be next to it.
Easy Side Dishes
Keep the cozy vibes going with these easy pairings:
- Parmesan Cauliflower and/or Roasted Frozen Broccoli
- Cajun Style Oyster Dressing or Mexican Cornbread Stuffing
- And for dessert? You’ll definitely want these Pecan Pie Bars or Pumpkin Pie Bars.
Your whole menu = handled.
Ingredients
Yukon gold potatoes are the best to use for this recipe, however, you can also use russet if push comes to shove.
I use sharp cheddar cheese in this, but you can also use Monterrey Jack, pepper jack, blue cheese or any cheese you'd like.
The full list of ingredients is included in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Step By Step Instructions
Step1: Spray the crock pot generously with non stick cooking spray.
Step2: Slice the potatoes in ¼ inch slices and layer in the bottom of the crock pot, alternating them with slices of onion.
Step3: In a skillet, melt the butter and flour over medium low heat, whisking constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes while whisking.
Step4: SLOWLY pour the milk in while continuing to whisk.
Step5: Stir in the salt and pepper (and any other seasonings if you've chosen to add them).
Step6: Remove from heat and stir in the cheese.
Step7: Pour the cheese mixture over the potatoes and shake the crock pot to let it sink into all the crevices.
Step8: Place a layer of paper towels over the top (under the lid) and cook on high for 3-4 hours. Potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork when done.
Step9: Turn the heat off and let the potatoes sit for 10 minutes.
Variations
- Add diced ham in with the potatoes.
- Add 1-2 sliced jalapenos in with the potatoes.
- Add sliced red or green bell peppers in with the potatoes.
- Put 8-12 smashed garlic cloves in with the potatoes.
- Stir in ¼ cup of blue cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Expert Tips
- Using paper towels under the lid help to keep the potatoes from getting soggy.
- Shred the cheese from the block instead of using pre-shredded as the pre-shredded doesn't melt as smoothly.
- Use a mandolin to slice the onions and potatoes.
- Whole milk will provide the best, creamiest results.
Did you make this recipe? Rate it and leave a comment below to let me know what you think!
Recipe
Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes
Ingredients
- 4 large yukon gold potatoes sliced in ¼" slices
- 1 large onion sliced in ¼" slices
- 6 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Spray the crock pot generously with non stick cooking spray.
- Slice the potatoes in ¼ inch slices and layer in the bottom of the crock pot, alternating them with slices of onion.
- In a skillet, melt the butter and flour over medium low heat, whisking constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes while whisking.
- SLOWLY pour the milk in while continuing to whisk.
- Stir in the salt and pepper (and any other seasonings if you've chosen to add them).
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheese.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the potatoes and shake the crock pot to let it sink into all the crevices.
- Place a layer of paper towels over the top (under the lid) and cook on high for 3-4 hours.
- Turn the heat off and let the potatoes sit for 10 minutes.
Expert Tips:
- Using paper towels under the lid help to keep the potatoes from getting soggy.
- Shred the cheese from the block instead of using pre-shredded as the pre-shredded doesn't melt as smoothly.
- Use a mandolin to slice the onions and potatoes.
- Whole milk will provide the best, creamiest results.
Nutrition
Marcia R says
You mentioned sour cream & cream cheese…but I didn’t see it in the recipe.
Danielle says
Oh gosh, I don't know how that line got in there. I updated the post. There is no sour cream or cream cheese in this.
Judy Blum says
So do I thicken the sauce before I add the cheese, then pour over the potatoes, or does it thicken while cooking! Looks delicious!
Danielle says
The butter and flour mixture should help it thicken while it cooks. Hope you love it!
Zainab says
I love that these potatoes are made in the crock pot! Definitely making these for dinner tonight!
Danielle says
Hope you love them!
Jess says
My favorite way to eat potatoes. Making them in the crock pot is going to be life-changing!
Danielle says
It makes it so easy!
Dannii says
I never would have thought to make au gratin potatoes in the slow cooker. These look delicious.
Danielle says
Thanks!
Gina says
These are so beyond creamy and delicious, what a comforting side dish for winter!
Danielle says
Thanks!
Katherine says
Oh wow, these potatoes are incredible! And so great to be able to make them in the slow cooker.
Danielle says
So glad you like them!