Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to make Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes:
- 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 cups of heavy cream
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Preparing this dish starts with selecting the right type of potatoes. Russet potatoes are ideal because their high starch content helps create a creamy texture when cooked. However, you can also use Yukon Gold if you prefer a less starchy potato.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, peel and slice your potatoes to about 1⁄8 inch thick. It’s best to use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices which will cook evenly.
2. Make the Cream Sauce
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and milk over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Stir until the cream is warm but not boiling, then remove from heat.
⭐ Note: Avoid boiling the cream mixture to prevent curdling. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
3. Layer the Potatoes and Cheeses
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Arrange a layer of potato slices at the bottom, slightly overlapping each other.
- Sprinkle a portion of the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
- Add another layer of potatoes, then pour a third of the cream mixture over them. Repeat this process until all potatoes are used, ending with the cream mixture on top.
- Top with a generous amount of Parmesan cheese.
4. Baking
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 1 hour.
- After an hour, remove the foil to let the top brown. Bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden.
5. Garnish and Serve
Once your Au Gratin Potatoes are done, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve it hot for the best experience.
⭐ Note: If the top isn’t as brown as you’d like, you can place it under the broiler for a couple of minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe for Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes is not only simple but also delivers a luxurious texture and deep flavors due to several key aspects:
- Starch Content: Russet potatoes contain a lot of starch, which helps thicken the cream sauce as it bakes.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using freshly grated Parmesan and good quality cheddar cheese ensures optimal melt and flavor.
- Nutmeg: A hint of nutmeg adds complexity to the dish, enhancing the creaminess with its aromatic notes.
- Even Slicing: Uniform slices promote even cooking, ensuring each layer is perfectly tender and melts into the cream.
As we've seen, the beauty of Au Gratin Potatoes lies in its straightforward yet sophisticated preparation. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes with a rich, creamy sauce and melting cheese give this dish its characteristic appeal. Not only does it become a staple at dinner tables, especially during holidays, but it's also versatile enough to be paired with a wide range of entrees. The keys to its success are the quality of ingredients, patience during the baking process, and the balance of flavors, ensuring each bite is as indulgent as the last.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
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Absolutely! You can prepare Au Gratin Potatoes ahead of time. Assemble the dish as per the instructions, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. You might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time to ensure the center is heated through.
What other cheeses can I use?
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You can experiment with different cheeses to vary the flavor profile. Gruyère, Swiss, or even a bit of blue cheese can add unique flavors. However, ensure to keep cheddar or Parmesan for their melting qualities.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
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Leftover Au Gratin Potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot. A splash of milk or cream can help revive the creaminess.
