Au Gratin Potatoes with Ground Beef
Au Gratin Potatoes with Ground Beef is a hearty, baked casserole featuring thinly sliced potatoes layered with seasoned ground beef and a creamy, cheesy sauce, often topped with a golden, crispy crust. It typically includes ingredients like potatoes, ground beef, cheese (such as cheddar or Gruyère), milk or cream, onions, and basic seasonings. This dish is a popular comfort food in American home cooking, with roots in French 'au gratin' techniques that emphasize baking with a browned crust.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally high in fat and carbohydrates, with a moderate amount of protein from the beef and cheese. Key nutrients include calcium from the dairy, iron from the beef, and potassium from the potatoes, with a typical serving containing around 400-600 calories depending on portion size and recipe variations.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 32 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Potassium | 550 mg |
| Calcium | 280 mg |
| Iron | 3.2 mg |
| Vitamin A | 150 IU |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.5 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 300 mg |
| Zinc | 3.5 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it represents a fusion of French culinary methods with American hearty, home-style cooking, often served as a family meal or at gatherings. Nutritionally, it's interesting how the dish balances indulgence with sustenance, making it a filling option that can be adapted with leaner meats or vegetable additions for a healthier twist.
