Ultimate Ruth’s Chris Creamy Potato Gratin

Step-by-step instructions

Let’s dive into the straightforward steps for this creamy gratin:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
Sauté onions: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced onion and cook until it softens, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant.
Create cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg if using. Warm the mixture without boiling.
Layer potatoes: In the buttered baking dish, arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom.
Add cream mixture: Pour half of the warm cream mixture over the potatoes, then sprinkle half of each type of cheese.
Repeat layering: Add the remaining potato slices, the rest of the cream mixture, and top with the final layers of cheese.
Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
Finish baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for 15-25 minutes, until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender.
Let rest: Allow the dish to sit for 10 minutes before serving; this will help firm up those lovely layers.

Pro Tip: Using a mandoline slicer ensures that your potato slices are perfectly uniform, giving the gratin that ultra-smooth texture that everyone craves!

How to serve Ultimate Ruth’s Chris Creamy Potato Gratin

Serving this creamy gratin is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. Transfer the gratin to the table as is—its golden-brown top is visually stunning! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with roast meats, a simple green salad, or crusty bread. Consider a red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon for an extra touch of elegance.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your gratin fresh, store leftovers covered in the fridge where they will last for up to three days. When reheating, place it in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent it from drying out. You can reheat at 350°F until heated through. This dish also freezes beautifully for up to two months; simply let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic and foil.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few tips to enhance your gratin:

Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are perfect here due to their creaminess and ability to hold their shape.
Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the gratin to rest will yield cleaner slices and a better presentation.
Experiment with spices: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist!

Creative twists

Feel free to put your own spin on this classic dish. Add sautéed mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor, or incorporate cooked bacon for a smoky touch. For a lighter alternative, you can swap out the cream for a mixture of Greek yogurt and broth—just bear in mind that it will yield a different texture and flavor profile.

Your questions answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?

Typically, you’ll need about 20 minutes to prepare your ingredients and get everything layered before baking.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Gruyère and cheddar are traditional, feel free to experiment with cheeses like fontina or gouda to shake things up.

How do I know when the gratin is done?

The gratin is ready when the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly. A skewer inserted into the layers should slide through easily.

With this guide, you’ll find yourself confidently making the Ultimate Ruth’s Chris Creamy Potato Gratin that pairs perfectly for any occasion! Enjoy the creamy layers bursting with flavor!