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This comforting dish blends tender beef, velvety potatoes, and rich cheese into a mouthwatering meal that practically cooks itself. The slow cooker does all the work, so you can enjoy a cozy dinner without fuss. Think of it as a gentle reminder of home, warmth, and classic flavors that bring people together at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3–4 russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Cooking spray or a little oil for the slow cooker
Instructions
To begin, lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat, then spoon the cooked beef and onion into the slow cooker.
Next, spread an even layer of thinly sliced potatoes over the beef. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, heavy cream, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this flavorful mixture over the potato layer, ensuring the liquid seeps in between the slices to keep them moist and tender.
Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover and cook on low for about 6 to 7 hours, or until the potatoes are soft and the cheese is golden and melted. For a touch of browning on top, you can remove the lid for the final 15 minutes if your slow cooker has a browning function or finish briefly under the broiler in an oven-safe insert.
Garnish with fresh herbs if you like, and serve piping hot. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, and you can easily adapt it by swapping ground beef for turkey, or mixing in sliced mushrooms for extra flavor. It’s a hearty meal that’s both comforting and versatile, ensuring everyone at the table leaves satisfied. Feel free to tweak the cheese, cream, or seasonings based on your dietary preferences—this slow cooker beef and potato gratin is all about tailoring to your tastes and making dinner time stress-free and delicious. Enjoy!
