Side Dishes > Potato Dishes (Other) > Scalloped & Gratined Potatoes > Potatoes au Gratin Recipe

Classic Potatoes au Gratin

Indulge in the creamy comfort of Potatoes au Gratin. This classic dish features thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, cheesy sauce until golden brown and bubbly. A perfect side dish for any occasion.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
50-60 minutes
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 2 lbs Russet Potatoes
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream
  • 1 cup Gruyere Cheese
  • 2 cloves Garlic
  • 2 tablespoons Butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper

Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter. Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. A mandoline slicer can be helpful for even slices. Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning.

Make the Cream Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Assemble the Gratin

Drain the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Layer a third of the potato slices in the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly. Pour a third of the cream sauce over the potatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated. Sprinkle a third of the shredded Gruyere cheese over the sauce. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.

Bake the Gratin

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let the gratin rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 180kcal, Carbohydrates: 15g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 12g, Saturated Fat: 7g, Cholesterol: 40mg, Sodium: 200mg, Potassium: 400mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 2g, Vitamin C: 15%, Calcium: 15%, Iron: 5%.

Other Considerations for Nutrition

The nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Using low-fat milk or cheese will reduce the fat content. Adding more vegetables can increase fiber and vitamins.

FAQ

  • Can I use different types of cheese?

    Yes, Gruyere is classic, but you can substitute it with other cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, or Parmesan. A combination of cheeses can also add depth of flavor.
  • Can I make this ahead of time?

    Yes, you can assemble the gratin ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
  • How do I prevent the potatoes from browning before baking?

    Submerge the sliced potatoes in cold water immediately after slicing. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents oxidation.