Description

This Slow Cooker Beef & Potato Au Gratin is the perfect combination of tender potatoes, savory beef, and rich, cheesy goodness. The layers of ground beef, sliced potatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese cook together in the slow cooker, creating a comforting and flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion. This hearty dish is easy to prepare and cooks low and slow, resulting in tender potatoes and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious and satisfying dish!

Ingredients

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

Preparation Method

er medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it's fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy. Set the browned beef aside.

Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning blend will add flavor to the layers of beef and potatoes.

Layer the Ingredients: Grease your slow cooker to prevent sticking, then begin layering the ingredients. Start by placing half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in the can of condensed cheddar cheese soup and mix gently to coat the potatoes evenly.

Add the Onions, Beef, and Cheese: On top of the potatoes, layer half of the sliced onions, followed by half of the browned ground beef. Sprinkle the beef with half of the seasoning mixture. Then, add half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese.

Repeat the Layers: Repeat the process by layering the remaining potatoes, onions, ground beef, seasonings, and shredded cheese.

Pour in the Beef Broth: Pour the beef broth evenly over the top of the layers in the slow cooker. The broth helps to create a rich, flavorful sauce as everything cooks.

Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and cooked through. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serve and Enjoy: Once the dish is cooked and the potatoes are tender, scoop the Beef & Potato Au Gratin straight from the slow cooker and serve. The creamy, cheesy layers and savory beef make this a comforting and satisfying meal.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
For an extra cheesy finish, you can sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking. If you prefer a bit of crunch, you can also add a breadcrumb topping just before serving. Pair this dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion:
This Slow Cooker Beef & Potato Au Gratin is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. The convenience of using a slow cooker makes it an easy, hands-off meal that’s perfect for busy days. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a satisfying dinner, this dish is sure to hit the spot. Serve it straight from the slow cooker and enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite!