Are you craving that restaurant-quality side dish that elevates any meal? Look no further! This recipe recreates the decadent, creamy, and utterly irresistible Capital Grille Au Gratin Potatoes. Forget everything you think you know about au gratin potatoes – this version is rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make at home. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious addition to your next dinner party or weeknight meal. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals, without sacrificing deliciousness. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
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Prep the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline slicer for even thickness (this is key for even cooking!). If you don't have a mandoline, use a sharp knife, aiming for slices no thicker than 1/8 inch.
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Create the Creamy Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
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Layer and Bake: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter. Layer half of the potato slices in the dish, slightly overlapping. Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes. Sprinkle half of the Gruyere and Parmesan cheese over the sauce. Repeat layers with the remaining potatoes, cream sauce, and cheeses.
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Bake to Perfection: Dot the top with the remaining butter. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
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Rest and Serve: Let the au gratin potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows them to set slightly and makes serving easier.
Tips for the Best Au Gratin Potatoes:
- Thinly Sliced Potatoes: The thinner the slices, the more evenly they'll cook and the creamier the final dish will be.
- Don't Overcrowd the Dish: Allowing space between the potato layers helps ensure even cooking.
- Use Quality Cheese: Gruyere and Parmesan are classic choices, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Fontina or Comté.
- Add Some Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs added between the layers add a delicious depth of flavor.
Variations:
- Garlic Lovers: Add an extra clove of garlic or use roasted garlic for an intense garlic flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for a spicy twist.
- Bacon Bliss: Crisp some bacon and crumble it over the top before baking for extra savory goodness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 18-22g Protein: 6-8g Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Capital Grille-inspired au gratin potato recipe is a surefire way to add a touch of elegance to any meal. It's a delightful combination of creamy texture and savory flavors, making it a perfect side dish for both casual dinners and special occasions. Whether you're searching for quick dinner ideas or delicious dishes for a crowd, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy!