Best Slow Cooker Ground Beef and Potato Au Gratin

A Comforting, Hearty, and Effortless Meal

If you’re looking for an easy, comforting, and satisfying meal, this Slow Cooker Ground Beef and Potato Au Gratin is exactly what you need. Perfect for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone who loves a warm, cheesy, and flavorful dish, this slow cooker recipe requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. With tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and layers of gooey melted cheese, this dish is bound to be a new favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Hands-off cooking: Let your slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day.
  • Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, pantry-friendly ingredients.
  • Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping.
  • Customizable: Easy to swap ingredients and adjust to dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 3 lbs peeled russet potatoes (thinly sliced)
  • 1 cup thinly sliced white onion
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp parsley
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
  • 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Slow cooker (4-quart or larger)
  • Skillet (for browning the beef)
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle or spoon for layering

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef
    In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  2. Prepare the Seasoning Mix
    In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Layer the Ingredients
    Set your slow cooker to high heat. Start with a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by onions, seasoning mix, browned ground beef, and a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
  4. Add the Broth
    Pour the chicken or beef broth evenly over the layers.
  5. Cook to Perfection
    Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 7-8 hours until potatoes are tender and cheese is melted.
  6. Serve and Enjoy
    Let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh touch.

Tips and Variations

Ingredient Swaps

  • Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: A leaner alternative to beef.
  • Swap the Cheese: Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or Gruyère for a gourmet touch.
  • Add Veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions.
  • Creamier Texture: Mix in a can of cream of mushroom or cheddar soup.

Shortcuts

  • Use Pre-Shredded Cheese to save time.
  • Buy Pre-Sliced Potatoes for an even faster prep.
  • Brown Beef in Advance and store it in the fridge for quicker assembly.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
  • Oven: Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes for best results.

What to Serve With This Dish

  • Side Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.
  • Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up all the cheesy goodness.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots add a healthy touch.
  • Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prep all the ingredients and store them in the fridge overnight. When ready, layer them in the slow cooker and cook as directed.

Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Russet Potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a slightly sweeter taste and extra nutrients.

Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Can I Double This Recipe?

If you have a large slow cooker (6-quart or more), you can easily double the ingredients and adjust the cooking time slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Ground Beef and Potato Au Gratin is the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a cheesy, hearty dish, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family! Also, subscribe to our blog for more delicious and easy slow cooker recipes. Happy cooking! 🍽️

Leave a Comment