Step-by-step instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9×13 baking dish to ensure nothing sticks.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the minced onion until it’s soft and fragrant, then add the garlic, cooking for an additional minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring in the salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg if you choose to use it. Heat this mixture gently until warm but not boiling.
- Begin layering your ingredients by arranging half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle half of the warm cream mixture over the first layer of potatoes, then sprinkle on half of both the Gruyère and cheddar cheeses.
- Repeat by layering the remaining potatoes, followed by the rest of the cream mixture and cheeses on top.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- After that time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling, and the potatoes are tender.
- Allow the gratin to rest for 10 minutes before serving, as this will help the creamy layers to set beautifully.
How to serve Ultimate Ruth’s Chris Creamy Potato Gratin
This gratin is versatile and can be served in various ways to impress your guests. Present it in the baking dish, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. For a hearty meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken, beef, or a succulent piece of salmon. You might also consider small individual portions for a more elegant touch at dinner parties.
How to store
To keep your leftovers fresh, store the gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have a larger batch, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
- For the best results, slice your Yukon gold potatoes evenly; this ensures they cook uniformly.
- Feel free to play around with flavors! Adding in fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, can elevate the dish.
- If you have leftovers, this gratin makes for excellent breakfast fare. Just reheat and pair with sunny-side-up eggs for a delicious start to your day!
Creative twists
While the classic version of this gratin is undoubtedly delicious, you can take it up a notch by introducing different flavors. Consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist. For a lighter alternative, swap in cauliflower for half the potatoes or use a low-fat milk option. Vegan variations can be explored using cashew cream and dairy-free cheese.
FAQs
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is approximately 20 minutes, and baking time is around 50-60 minutes total.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the gratin a day in advance. Assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
How do I reheat leftovers safely?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
This Ultimate Ruth’s Chris Creamy Potato Gratin is bound to be a hit at your next meal, whether it’s an intimate dinner or a grand celebration!
