Creamy Velveeta Au Gratin Potatoes
Indulge in this delightful slow-cooked recipe for Creamy Velveeta Au Gratin Potatoes. This comforting dish combines the rich flavors of Yukon gold potatoes, creamy soups, and the gooey goodness of Velveeta cheese. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this crock pot recipe allows for easy preparation and worry-free cooking, letting the slow cooker do all the work. Just layer the ingredients, let them meld together, and savor the mouthwatering aroma as it fills your kitchen. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with any meal, but be warned—its creamy texture may have you sneaking bites before dinner is served!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Yukon gold potatoes
2-2.5 pounds (4 potatoes) (peeled and sliced thin)
Onion
1 small (chopped fine)
Velveeta cheese
8 ounces (cubed)
Condensed cream of chicken soup
10.5 ounces (none)
Condensed cheddar cheese soup
10.5 ounces (none)
Milk
1 cup (none)
Margarine
1/2 cup (none)
Salt
to taste (none)
Black pepper
to taste (none)
Garlic powder
to taste (about 1/2 tsp) (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by peeling the Yukon gold potatoes and slicing them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick.
2
In your crock pot, layer the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom.
3
Add the margarine to the crock pot, tossing the potatoes gently to coat them.
4
Pour in the condensed cream of chicken soup and the condensed cheddar cheese soup over the potatoes.
5
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk with the soups to create a smooth mixture, then pour it over the potatoes.
6
Add the chopped onion evenly over the mixture, adjusting the amount according to your taste preference.
7
Season the dish with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder—approximately 1/2 teaspoon each, or to taste.
8
Finally, top the entire mixture with the cubed Velveeta cheese, distributing it evenly.
9
Cover the crock pot and cook on the high setting for about 4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender. Cooking time might vary based on the thickness of your potato slices, so check for doneness as you go.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main cheese used in Creamy Velveeta Au Gratin Potatoes?
The recipe uses 8 ounces of Velveeta cheese, which is cubed and placed on top to provide a smooth and gooey texture.
What type of potatoes are best for this slow cooker recipe?
Yukon gold potatoes are recommended because they hold their shape well and provide a buttery flavor and texture.
How many potatoes do I need to prepare this dish?
You will need approximately 2 to 2.5 pounds of Yukon gold potatoes, which is roughly 4 large potatoes.
Do I need to peel the potatoes before cooking?
Yes, the instructions specify to begin by peeling the Yukon gold potatoes before slicing them.
How thick should the potato slices be?
The potatoes should be sliced thinly, approximately 1/8 inch thick, to ensure even cooking in the slow cooker.
What kind of soups are included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for one 10.5-ounce can of condensed cream of chicken soup and one 10.5-ounce can of condensed cheddar cheese soup.
How much milk is required for the sauce?
The recipe requires 1 cup of milk to be whisked with the condensed soups.
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
While the recipe specifies 1/2 cup of margarine, butter is a common substitute that can be used for a similar rich flavor.
How should the onion be prepared?
You should use one small onion that has been chopped fine to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the dish.
What seasonings are used in this au gratin potato recipe?
The dish is seasoned with salt, black pepper, and approximately 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, or to taste.
What is the recommended cooking time on the high setting?
The potatoes should be cooked on high for about 4 hours, or until they are tender.
Does the thickness of the slices affect the cooking time?
Yes, cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your potato slices, so it is important to check for doneness as you go.
How do I layer the ingredients in the crock pot?
Start with sliced potatoes, followed by margarine, the soup and milk mixture, chopped onions, seasonings, and finally the Velveeta cheese cubes.
Should the margarine be melted before adding it?
The recipe does not specify melting; you add the margarine to the potatoes and toss them gently to coat them before adding the liquids.
Is it necessary to whisk the milk and soups together?
Yes, whisking them in a separate bowl creates a smooth mixture before pouring it over the potatoes for a better consistency.
Can I adjust the amount of onion in the recipe?
Yes, the recipe suggests adding the chopped onion evenly and adjusting the amount according to your taste preference.
Is this recipe considered a 'set and forget' meal?
Yes, this crock pot recipe allows for easy preparation and worry-free cooking, letting the slow cooker do all the work.
Is Creamy Velveeta Au Gratin Potatoes suitable for vegetarians?
The recipe is tagged as vegetarian; however, ensure the cream of chicken soup is a vegetarian version if you follow a strict diet.
What makes the texture of these potatoes so creamy?
The combination of condensed cream soups, milk, and melted Velveeta cheese creates a rich, creamy sauce during the slow cooking process.
How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?
The potatoes are done when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
Can I double this recipe for a larger gathering?
Yes, you can double the ingredients if your crock pot is large enough, though you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
Should I stir the dish while it is cooking?
The instructions do not mention stirring during the 4-hour cooking process, which helps maintain the layers.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
While not in the original recipe, many people add extra onions, peppers, or even peas to customize their au gratin potatoes.
What is the best way to distribute the cheese cubes?
Distribute the cubed Velveeta cheese evenly over the top of the mixture before covering the crock pot to ensure even melting.
How much garlic powder should I use if I like a mild flavor?
The recipe recommends approximately 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, but you can start with 1/4 teaspoon for a milder taste.
Is Yukon gold the only potato type I can use?
While Yukon golds are preferred for their creaminess, you can use Russet potatoes, though they may break down more during the long cook time.
Can I prepare the potatoes the night before?
You can slice the potatoes ahead of time, but store them in water to prevent browning, or assemble the whole crock pot insert and refrigerate until morning.
What should I serve with these cheesy potatoes?
These potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even as a standalone comfort food side dish.
Why is it called 'Au Gratin'?
Au gratin traditionally refers to a dish topped with a browned crust, often involving cheese or breadcrumbs; here, the Velveeta creates that signature cheesy topping.
Is the onion necessary for the recipe?
The onion provides a savory depth to the cheese sauce, but it can be omitted if you have a strong preference against onions.