Slow Cooker Camembert and Smoked Bacon Potato Gratin Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To add an extra layer of flavor, you can place a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary between the potato layers.

The woody herbs infuse the potatoes as they cook, providing a subtle aromatic quality that complements the richness of the Camembert. Just be sure to remove the herb stems before serving to ensure a pleasant eating experience for your guests.

If you find that the potatoes are cooked but the cheese hasn't melted to your liking, you can briefly place the slow cooker insert into a preheated oven under the broiler for one to two minutes.

Watch it extremely closely, as the cheese can go from perfectly melted to burnt in seconds. This step adds a beautiful golden-brown color to the top of the cheese.

Variations

• Garlic Infused: Add three cloves of thinly sliced garlic between the potato layers to provide a pungent, savory depth that enhances the smoky bacon.
• Spiced Gratin: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika over the potatoes for a warmer, more complex flavor profile that pairs well with the cheese.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it is cooled to room temperature before covering and refrigerating.

Freezer

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of both the potatoes and the Camembert will change significantly upon thawing.

Reheat

Reheat portions in the microwave on medium power until heated through, or place in a small oven-safe dish at 325°F until warm.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Because this dish contains dairy and meat, it should be moved to the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to ensure food safety. It is best enjoyed within three days, as the texture of the potatoes can degrade over time when stored for longer periods.

You can prepare the potato and bacon layers in the slow cooker insert, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to four hours before you plan to cook it.

When ready, simply add the Camembert, place the insert in the base, and start the cooking process. You may need to add an extra fifteen minutes to the cooking time if starting from a chilled state.

Serving ideas

This gratin is a substantial dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp, acidic green salad, such as arugula with a lemon vinaigrette. The brightness of the greens cuts through the richness of the cheese and potatoes, creating a distinct contrast between the fresh vegetables and the savory, heavy elements of the dish.

When serving, use a wide spatula to ensure you get a good portion of the bacon and potatoes along with the melted cheese.

If you have guests, you can garnish the plates with a little extra freshly cracked black pepper or some finely chopped fresh chives for a pop of color. Serve while hot, as the cheese will begin to firm up as it cools down.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Camembert and Smoked Bacon Potato Gratin

Prep 15 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 20 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 6 oz smoked bacon lardons
• 1.5 lb potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 wheels Camembert cheese, halved horizontally

Instructions

1. Place the smoked bacon lardons in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. Scatter the thinly sliced potatoes over the bacon, ensuring an even distribution. Sprinkle the freshly ground black pepper generously over the potato layer to provide seasoning.
2. Place the two halves of the Camembert cheese in the center of the slow cooker on top of the potatoes, ensuring the rind-side is facing up. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low heat for approximately four hours.
3. Check the gratin after four hours to ensure the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Once cooked, allow the dish to rest for five minutes before serving. Scoop portions directly from the slow cooker onto plates, ensuring each serving includes a portion of the melted cheese.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

420

Protein

18.5 g

Carbohydrates

32 g

Fat

25 g

Fiber

3 g

Sugar

1.5 g

Sodium

680 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.