Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
This sauce is the heart of the gratin—it binds everything together.
Step 4: Assemble the Gratin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Start with a layer of sliced potatoes.
- Add a layer of the cooked ground beef mixture.
- Spoon some creamy sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and a generous cheese topping.
Step 5: Bake Slowly
Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
Why Following the Recipe Matters
This dish works because of balance—thin potatoes, properly seasoned beef, and just enough sauce. Skipping steps or changing ratios can throw off the texture. That’s why people who follow it exactly often say the same thing:
“I’ll do it the same way every time from now on.”
And when a 92-year-old grandma agrees? That’s the highest compliment a home cook can receive.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef Gratin is proof that timeless recipes never go out of style. It’s warm, filling, and comforting in a way that feels familiar even the first time you make it. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or someone who’s seen generations of home cooking, this dish delivers every single time.
Sometimes, the best recipes aren’t new—they’re just done right.
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