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

