Oven-Baked 4-Ingredient Potato Au Gratin Cups


These charming individual Potato Au Gratin Cups are a treasured heirloom from your Aunt Elaine’s kitchen—elegant enough for company, effortless enough for a busy afternoon. Baked in a muffin tin for perfect single servings, they feature thinly sliced potatoes layered with real cream, a whisper of onion, and a generous blanket of cheese that melts into golden, bubbling perfection.
With just four simple ingredients, this recipe captures the grace of mid-century entertaining while remaining utterly practical for today’s table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • 🥔 Only 4 ingredients—pantry staples!
  • ⏱️ 15 minutes prep, 40–45 minutes bake
  • 💛 Muffin tin = built-in portion control + easy serving
  • 💸 Costs under $7—makes 12 generous cups
  • 🌾 Naturally nut-free & easily gluten-free

Ingredients You’ll Need

(Standard 12-cup muffin tin; serves 6–12)
  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (⅛-inch thick)
  • 1½ cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup finely minced onion
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar or Gruyère cheese
  • Salt & white pepper to taste
  • Optional: Pinch of nutmeg or a light buttering of the muffin tin
💡 Aunt Elaine’s Pro Tips:
  • Slice potatoes evenly—a mandoline ensures uniform tenderness.
  • Do not rinse slices—starch helps thicken the cream.
  • Grease muffin tin well—these cups cling if under-greased!

Step-by-Step Instructions (Creamy, Golden, Foolproof)

1. Prep & Preheat

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin.

2. Layer the Cups