Delve into the world of cozy comfort food with our delectable Slow Cooker Beef & Potato Au Gratin recipe! This hearty dish combines tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese for a satisfying meal that will warm your soul. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this slow cooker version of the classic au gratin is a convenient and delicious option for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb adaptations to elevate your comfort food game to new heights.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup onion, sliced
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into slices
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 3 cups sharp cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup beef broth
- 1 can of condensed cheddar cheese soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with sliced onions until cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and slice the russet potatoes into thin rounds.
- Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
- Grease the slow cooker insert with non-stick spray.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread half of the cooked ground beef and onion mixture over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded sharp cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ground beef mixture, and shredded cheese.
- Combine Liquid Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth and condensed cheddar cheese soup until well combined.
- Pour Liquid Mixture Over Layers:
- Pour the beef broth and cheese soup mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Cook on Low Heat:
- Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, serve the Beef & Potato Au Gratin hot from the slow cooker, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle each layer with your favorite herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning.
- Experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyere, cheddar, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile.
- Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the ground beef mixture for extra texture and nutrients.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace the russet potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative.
- Use full-fat cheese and beef broth to maintain a keto-friendly macronutrient ratio.
- Skip the condensed cheddar cheese soup or use a homemade keto-friendly version made with almond milk, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce the amount of potatoes or omit them entirely for a lower-carb option.
- Use a reduced-sodium beef broth to lower the sodium content of the dish.
- Substitute the condensed cheddar cheese soup with a mixture of heavy cream and grated cheese thickened with xanthan gum or arrowroot powder.
In conclusion, our Slow Cooker Beef & Potato Au Gratin recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food favorite. With its layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, this easy-to-make recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone satisfied and coming back for seconds. So, dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and prepare to indulge in a comforting and delicious meal that will warm your heart and soul.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Gruyere, cheddar, or Monterey Jack would all work well in this dish.
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A: Yes! You can assemble the layers of potatoes, beef, and cheese in the slow cooker insert ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply add the liquid mixture and cook as directed when ready to enjoy.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this dish? A: While this dish can be frozen, the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to consume the leftovers within 3-4 days if stored in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add diced vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the ground beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian? A: Yes! You can omit the ground beef and use a combination of diced vegetables or vegetarian meat alternatives such as crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish.
