Are you looking for the perfect side dish to elevate your next dinner party or weeknight meal? Look no further! This Martha Stewart Potatoes Au Gratin recipe is a classic for a reason – its creamy, cheesy goodness is irresistible, and surprisingly easy to make. Forget those bland, watery casseroles; this recipe delivers a luxuriously rich and comforting dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, perfect for both homemade cooking enthusiasts and beginners alike.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick) using a mandoline or sharp knife for even cooking.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
Instructions:
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Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9x13 inch baking dish. This step ensures even cooking and prevents sticking. Evenly slice the potatoes. Using a mandoline slicer is highly recommended for uniform thickness, resulting in even cooking.
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Create the Creamy Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This creamy mixture forms the base of the gratin's luxurious texture.
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Layer and Bake: Arrange half of the potato slices in the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes, making sure each slice is lightly coated. Sprinkle half of the Parmesan and Gruyère cheese over the cream. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, cream, and cheese.
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Dot with Butter: Dot the top of the gratin with the butter cut into small pieces. This adds richness and helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with foil.
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Rest and Serve: Let the gratin rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the potatoes to set and makes for easier serving. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese before serving for an extra touch of deliciousness.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the cream mixture.
- Spice it up: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
- Add some herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs added during baking infuse a delightful aroma and taste.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the gratin a few hours ahead of time and bake it when ready. Keep it refrigerated until baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 18-22g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Martha Stewart Potatoes Au Gratin recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a delicious side dish perfect for any occasion, offering a simple yet elegant touch to your table. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful addition to your collection of easy recipes and best recipes. The combination of creamy sauce and perfectly baked potatoes will undoubtedly become a family favorite, transforming your ordinary dinner into a memorable experience. Remember to share your culinary creations with us!