Unleash Flavor with Slow Cooker Beef & Potato Au Gratin

Looking for a hearty and comforting meal that practically cooks itself? Say hello to Slow Cooker Beef & Potato Au Gratin! This delicious dish combines tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese for a satisfying dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this slow cooker recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Join us as we explore the steps to creating this mouthwatering dish, along with helpful cooking tips, creative variations, and keto-friendly options to suit your dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 cup sliced onion
• 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheese
• 3/4 cup beef broth
• 1 can condensed cheddar cheese soup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients:

1. Cooking the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and sliced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
2. Slicing the Potatoes: While the ground beef is cooking, peel and slice the russet potatoes into thin rounds. Set aside.

Layering the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:

1. Greasing the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Layering the Potatoes: Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker, overlapping slightly to cover the surface.
3. Seasoning the Potatoes: Sprinkle the layer of potatoes with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Adding the Beef Mixture: Spread half of the cooked ground beef and onion mixture over the layer of potatoes in the slow cooker.
5. Layering Cheese: Sprinkle a portion of the shredded sharp cheese over the beef mixture, ensuring even coverage.
6. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and shredded cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.

Creating the Sauce:

1. Mixing Beef Broth and Soup: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth and condensed cheddar cheese soup until well combined.
2. Pouring Over Layers: Pour the beef broth and soup mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker, ensuring that all layers are coated.

Cooking in the Slow Cooker:

1. Covering and Cooking: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Checking for Doneness: Test the tenderness of the potatoes by inserting a fork into the layers. If the potatoes are soft and easily pierced, the dish is ready to serve.

Serving and Enjoying:

1. Serving: Once cooked, serve the Slow Cooker Beef & Potato Au Gratin directly from the slow cooker, scooping out generous portions onto plates or bowls.
2. Garnishing (Optional): Garnish with fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.

Cook Notes and Variations

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor of your au gratin. Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack cheese can be used in place of sharp cheddar for a unique twist.
• Vegetable Additions: Add layers of thinly sliced vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to incorporate more nutrients and flavor into the dish.
• Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor of the dish by adding dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil to the beef mixture or sprinkling them between the layers of potatoes.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Version:

• Potato Substitutions: Replace the russet potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnip slices to create a low-carb version of the dish.
• Soup Substitute: Use a keto-friendly cream soup or make your own cheese sauce using heavy cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheese for a low-carb alternative to condensed cheddar cheese soup.

Low-Carb Version:

• Reduced Carbohydrate Ingredients: Opt for lean ground beef and reduced-fat cheese to minimize the carb content of the dish while still retaining its flavor and texture.
• Portion Control: Limit the portion size of the au gratin and pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables to create a balanced low-carb meal.

In conclusion, Slow Cooker Beef & Potato Au Gratin is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheese, this hearty casserole is sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply treating yourself to a cozy meal at home, this slow cooker recipe is a winner. So fire up your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of Slow Cooker Beef & Potato Au Gratin today!

Additional Tips and Serving Suggestions

• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the layers of the au gratin in advance and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Simply assemble the dish in the slow cooker and cook according to the instructions when ready to enjoy.
• Freezing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze individual portions for longer storage. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving