🧀 Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes (Au Gratin)

This recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food: tender, thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, creamy cheese sauce until bubbly and golden. Using a slow cooker makes this classic side dish incredibly easy, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly with minimal effort. It’s the perfect addition to any holiday table or Sunday dinner!

🌟 Why Use a Slow Cooker?

Hands-Off Cooking: Free up your oven for the main course (like a ham or turkey).
Perfect Texture: The low and slow heat ensures the potatoes cook evenly until they are fork-tender.
Creaminess: The sauce stays perfectly creamy without drying out or curdling.

📝 Ingredient List

Category	Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Potatoes	Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes	2.5 lbs (about 4-5 large)	Peeled and sliced thinly (about $1/8$ inch).
Aromatics	Yellow Onion	1/2 large	Finely diced.
Dairy	Unsalted Butter	3 tbsp
	All-Purpose Flour	3 tbsp	For thickening the sauce.
	Whole Milk	2 cups	Or half-and-half for extra richness.
	Heavy Cream	1/2 cup
Cheese	Sharp Cheddar Cheese	1.5 cups	Shredded.
	Gruyère or Monterey Jack Cheese	1/2 cup	Shredded.
Seasoning	Garlic Powder	1 tsp
	Paprika (Sweet or Smoked)	1 tsp	Adds color and depth.
	Salt	1 tsp	Or to taste.
	Black Pepper	1/2 tsp	Or to taste.
	Fresh Parsley	For garnish	Chopped.