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Start with Delicious Potatoes
Ah, the humble potato. It’s a staple of many meals, and it’s a wonderfully versatile ingredient. But when it comes to au gratin potatoes, you need to start off with the right kind of potato. A starchy potato such as a Russet is the best choice. You’ll also need butter, flour, milk, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and of course grated cheese. A sharp cheddar works well, but you can also experiment with Gruyere, Parmesan, or even blue cheese. And don’t forget the paprika!
The Secret to Perfect Au Gratin Potatoes
The secret to perfect au gratin potatoes is to cut the potatoes into very thin slices. This helps them to cook faster, and it also ensures that the potatoes are cooked through. Don’t be afraid to cut the potatoes very thin – they’ll hold together when they’re cooked. You can also use a mandolin if you have one, which will help to give the potatoes an even thickness. The potatoes should be about 1/8 of an inch thick.
Assemble and Bake
Once the potatoes are sliced, you’ll want to start assembling the dish. Grease a 9×13 baking dish and spread a layer of potatoes on the bottom. Sprinkle the potatoes with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Then, make a white sauce by melting butter in a saucepan and stirring in flour until it is blended. Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Pour the white sauce over the potatoes, top with grated cheese, and sprinkle with paprika. Repeat this process until you’ve used all of the potatoes.
The Finishing Touches
Top the au gratin potatoes with a few tablespoons of butter and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to brown the top. Let the potatoes stand for about 10 minutes before serving. And voila! Your au gratin potatoes are ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Au gratin potatoes are a delicious side dish for any meal. They go especially well with grilled meat or fish, and they also make a great addition to a holiday meal. If you’re looking for a vegetarian main dish, au gratin potatoes can also stand in for a main course. Just add a side salad or some steamed vegetables and you’ve got a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
The nutritional information of this dish is provided in the table below. As you can see, it’s not the healthiest choice, but it can be a nice indulgence every now and then. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrition | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
A Recipe for Comfort
Au gratin potatoes are a comforting dish that everyone can enjoy. They’re a great way to switch up your meal routine and add some variety. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time. So, why not give them a try? As the song goes, “Au Gratin potatoes, they’re the best potatoes that I ever ate.” Bon appetit!
