Potatoes Au Gratin is a classic comfort food dish that has graced many a dining table, especially during festive occasions and family gatherings. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s no wonder this dish has remained a beloved side for steak dinners and holiday feasts alike. Inspired by the luxurious rendition served at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, this recipe for Potatoes Au Gratin promises to bring a touch of elegance and indulgence to your home cooking. The combination of tender russet potatoes layered with a rich, cheesy sauce is guaranteed to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
**Recipe**
This recipe for Potatoes Au Gratin takes a classic dish and elevates it with the addition of Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses, providing a decadent, savory flavor profile. The use of heavy cream and butter ensures a velvety sauce that envelops the potatoes, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. By following the straightforward steps outlined below, you can recreate a restaurant-quality side dish that pairs perfectly with steaks, roasted chicken, or any main course of your choice.
**Ingredients**
To create this sumptuous side, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced: The starchy quality of russet potatoes makes them ideal for absorbing the rich, creamy sauce.
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Butter adds a rich, creamy flavor and helps to bind the sauce.
– 1/2 cup heavy cream: Provides the creaminess that is essential for a decadent gratin.
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese: Known for its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, Gruyère adds depth to the dish.
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan brings a sharp, tangy element that complements the Gruyère.
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the sauce.
– 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and balances the creaminess.
**Directions/Instructions**
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature for baking the potatoes evenly and achieving a golden-brown crust.
2. **Prepare the Baking Dish**: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents the potatoes from sticking and makes clean-up easier.
3. **Layer the Potatoes**: Arrange the sliced potatoes in the baking dish, overlapping them slightly. This ensures even cooking and a visually appealing presentation.
4. **Make the Sauce**: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, heavy cream, Gruyère cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth. The flour will help thicken the sauce as it bakes, while the cheeses will melt and create a luscious, creamy coating for the potatoes.
5. **Pour the Sauce**: Evenly pour the sauce over the layered potatoes, ensuring that all slices are covered. This helps the potatoes absorb the flavors and cook uniformly.
6. **Bake**: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The potatoes should be tender, and the top should be golden brown and bubbling. If necessary, you can broil the dish for a minute or two at the end to achieve a more pronounced crust.
7. **Serve**: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the sauce to set a bit, making it easier to scoop and serve. Enjoy this rich, flavorful dish alongside your favorite main course.
**FAQ**
**Can I use a different type of potato?**
Yes, while russet potatoes are ideal for their starchiness, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
**Can I prepare this dish in advance?**
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
**What other cheeses can I use?**
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese can add interesting flavor variations.
**Is there a way to make this dish lighter?**
For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter. Keep in mind that this will alter the richness of the dish.
**Conclusion**
This Ruth’s Chris-Inspired Potatoes Au Gratin recipe is a show-stopping side that’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. With its rich, creamy sauce and perfectly tender potatoes, it’s a dish that embodies comfort and sophistication. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a special meal, these Potatoes Au Gratin will elevate your dining experience. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in a dish that captures the essence of fine dining in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy!