Are you craving a comforting, creamy side dish that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This quick au gratin potatoes recipe delivers all the cheesy, dreamy goodness of the classic dish, but without the lengthy prep time. Perfect for busy weeknights or a simple addition to your weekend feast, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this easy and delicious side.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
Instructions:
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Prep the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly using a mandoline slicer (for even slices) or a sharp knife. Soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water for 10-15 minutes helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier potatoes. Drain well before proceeding.
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Creamy Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Reduce heat to low.
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Layer and Bake: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange half of the potato slices in the dish, slightly overlapping. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the potatoes. Sprinkle with half of the Parmesan cheese and half of the Gruyere cheese. Repeat with the remaining potato slices, sauce, and cheese.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Let the au gratin potatoes rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes for easier serving. Enjoy this delicious side dish with your favorite protein and vegetables.
Tips for the Best Au Gratin Potatoes:
- Thinly Sliced Potatoes: Using a mandoline slicer ensures even cooking and prevents some slices from becoming mushy while others remain raw.
- Don't Overcrowd the Dish: Make sure there's enough space between the potato layers to allow for even browning and cooking.
- Cheese Selection: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! A blend of cheddar, Gruyere, and Fontina would also be delicious.
- Add-ins: For extra flavor, consider adding sauteed onions, garlic, or herbs to the creamy sauce.
Variations:
- Bacon Au Gratin: Crumble cooked bacon and sprinkle it over the potatoes before adding the cheese for a savory twist.
- Herb Au Gratin: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to the sauce for a more aromatic dish.
- Spicy Au Gratin: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This quick au gratin potatoes recipe is the perfect example of delicious and easy homemade cooking. It’s a simple yet elegant side dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!