Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Gratin! This hearty and flavorful dish features layers of tender ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, onions, garlic, and melty cheddar cheese, all cooked to perfection in your trusty slow cooker. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight meal or planning a family gathering, this satisfying gratin is sure to impress. Follow along as we guide you through the recipe, share tips for success, and offer variations to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/4-inch thick
- 1 small white onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 teaspoons fresh
- 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients: Peel and slice the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Thinly slice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease, then season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Layer Ingredients: Grease the bottom and sides of your slow cooker with cooking spray. Begin layering the ingredients in the slow cooker starting with a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by a layer of cooked ground beef, sliced onions, and grated cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Season and Add Liquid: Season each layer with salt and pepper to taste. In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, then pour the mixture evenly over the layers in the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker 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.
- Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the lid from the slow cooker and let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and substitute it with layers of sautéed mushrooms or diced vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese to change up the flavor profile of the gratin. Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack cheese can be used in place of cheddar for a unique twist.
- Herb Infusion: Add depth of flavor by infusing the chicken broth with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage before pouring it over the layers in the slow cooker.
- Creamy Sauce: For a creamier texture, mix together 1 cup of heavy cream with 1/4 cup of flour and pour it over the layers in the slow cooker before cooking.
Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Gratin, follow these adjustments:
- Replace Potatoes: Substitute the russet potatoes with thinly sliced turnips or radishes to reduce the carb content while still maintaining a similar texture.
- Low-Carb Binders: Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of chicken broth to create a low-carb sauce for the layers.
- Cheese Choices: Opt for full-fat cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan for a keto-friendly option.
- Additional Proteins: Increase the protein content by adding cooked bacon crumbles or diced ham to the layers.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Gratin is the epitome of comfort food—a warm and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of tender beef, hearty potatoes, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this gratin is sure to impress with its rich flavors and comforting aroma.
By following our easy-to-follow recipe and incorporating the suggested variations, you can customize this dish to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, looking for a vegetarian option, or simply craving a comforting meal, Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Gratin is sure to hit the spot. So fire up your slow cooker and get ready to savor the deliciousness of this classic comfort food dish!
