1. What are Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes?
Au gratin potatoes, also known as scalloped potatoes, is a dish that originated in France. The term “au gratin” means “with a crust,” and that’s exactly what this dish has – a golden-brown crust on top. The dish is made with thinly sliced potatoes, which are layered with cheese and a creamy sauce. It’s then baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender. Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes is simply an upgraded version of the classic dish, where the addition of cream and more cheese makes it more indulgent and flavorful.
2. Ingredients needed for Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes
To make Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes, you’ll need:
- 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyere)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
3.
Here’s how to make Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Heat over medium heat until it comes to a simmer.
- Add the sliced potatoes to the cream mixture and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Layer half of the potatoes and cream mixture in the baking dish. Top with half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cream mixture.
- Top with the remaining shredded cheese and Parmesan cheese.
- Dot the top with butter.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
4. Tips for making perfect Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes
Here are some tips to help you make perfect Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes:
- Use a mandoline slicer to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly.
- Don’t skip the heavy cream – it’s what makes this dish creamy and indulgent.
- Let the potatoes cook in the cream mixture for at least 10 minutes beforelayering them in the baking dish. This helps to soften the potatoes and infuse them with flavor.
- Use a combination of cheeses for a more complex and delicious flavor.
- If you want a crispy top, broil the dish for the last few minutes of baking.
5. Variations of Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes
Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes is a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste. Here are some variations you can try:
1. Adding bacon
For a smoky and savory twist, add cooked and crumbled bacon to the layers of potatoes and cheese.
2. Using different types of cheese
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Fontina, Gouda, or blue cheese. You can also use a combination of cheeses for a unique flavor.
3. Adding herbs and spices
Add herbs like thyme or rosemary, or spices like paprika or cayenne pepper, to the cream mixture for added flavor.
6. Serving suggestions
Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes is a great side dish that pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve with roast beef, pork tenderloin, or chicken.
- Serve with a salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Serve as a side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or other holiday meals.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I make Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it in the oven. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Q2. Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, you can use a different type of potato, such as Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Just make sure to slice them thinly and evenly.
Q3. Can I use skim milk instead of heavy cream?
You can use skim milk, but the dish won’t be as creamy or indulgent. You can also use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream.
Q4. Can I freeze Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Q5. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this dish in a slow cooker. Layer the potatoes and cream mixture in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
8. Conclusion
Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes is a delicious and comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy and cheesy layers of potatoes, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Follow the tips and variations in this article to make it your own. Give this recipe a try and enjoy this indulgent and decadent dish!