Indulge in a comforting and hearty dish with this Slow Cooker Beef & Potato Au Gratin recipe. Tender beef, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese come together in a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With the convenience of a slow cooker, this dish practically makes itself, leaving you with a flavorful and comforting dinner ready to enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) beef stew meat, cubed
- 4 cups potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Lightly grease the insert of your slow cooker to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Begin by layering half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Top the potatoes with half of the sliced onions and half of the cubed beef stew meat.
- Sprinkle half of the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary over the beef layer.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, beef, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Add the Liquid Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the beef broth and heavy cream.
- Pour the mixture over the layers in the slow cooker, ensuring it evenly coats the ingredients.
- Cook on Low:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
- Add Cheese:
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the beef and potato mixture.
- Cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Once the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve the Slow Cooker Beef & Potato Au Gratin hot, straight from the slow cooker. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef stew meat with sliced mushrooms or your favorite meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Variation: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for unique flavor profiles.
- Herb Infusion: Add other herbs like oregano, basil, or parsley for additional flavor complexity.
- Creamy Twist: For an even creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese before serving.
Keto Version:
- To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips. Ensure all other ingredients are keto-compliant and low in carbohydrates.
Low Carb Version:
- Similar to the keto version, replace the potatoes with a low-carb vegetable option such as cauliflower or zucchini slices. Use a low-carb beef broth and heavy cream to keep the carb count low.
This Slow Cooker Beef & Potato Au Gratin is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. With layers of tender beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Let your slow cooker do the work while you relax, and savor the delicious flavors of this comforting classic
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the layers of this dish the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply place the layers in the slow cooker, add the liquid ingredients, and set it to cook.
- Beef Selection: Opt for a well-marbled cut of beef like chuck roast or stew meat for maximum tenderness and flavor. You can also trim excess fat from the beef before cubing it.
- Uniform Slicing: Try to slice the potatoes and onions into uniform thickness to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before adding the cheese topping. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
- Cheese Melting: For a perfectly melted cheese topping, sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top of the dish and avoid opening the slow cooker lid frequently during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses according to your taste preferences. Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack cheese are excellent alternatives to cheddar.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Simply layer them along with the potatoes and onions.
Q: Can I cook this dish on high heat?
A: While cooking on low heat allows the flavors to meld together more thoroughly, you can cook this dish on high heat for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time. However, keep an eye on the tenderness of the beef and potatoes to prevent overcooking.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the microwave or oven.
Q: What can I serve with Beef & Potato Au Gratin?
A: This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using a gluten-free beef broth and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
Q: How do I prevent the potatoes from turning brown?
A: To prevent the potatoes from oxidizing and turning brown, you can soak them in cold water after slicing until you’re ready to use them in the recipe.
Enjoy the comforting flavors of this Slow Cooker Beef & Potato Au Gratin, a hearty dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
