Parmesan Crusted Au Gratin Potatoes and Onion is a delightful and hearty dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Known for its creamy texture and rich flavors, this classic recipe is a favorite in many households. The origins of au gratin dishes date back to French cuisine, where the technique involves baking ingredients with a crispy, golden-brown crust. In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients, instructions, and variations for this delicious dish, along with answering some common questions about au gratin.
Ingredients
To create this simple parmesan-crusted au gratin potatoes and onion dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Potatoes: 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- Onion: 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated
- Heavy Cream: 2 cups
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Flour: 2 tablespoons (for the roux)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon (optional)
- Fresh Thyme: 1 tablespoon, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
- Prepare the Potatoes and Onion: Thinly slice the potatoes and onion using a mandoline or a sharp knife to ensure even cooking.
Making the Roux
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add the Heavy Cream: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens.
- Season the Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using) to the sauce. Stir in half of the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Assembling the Dish
- Layer the Potatoes and Onion: In a greased baking dish, arrange a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by a layer of sliced onion. Repeat the layers until all potatoes and onions are used.
- Pour the Cream Sauce: Pour the cream sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and onions, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the top of the dish.
Baking
- Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the Foil: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
- Garnish: If desired, sprinkle fresh thyme over the top before serving.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Uniform Slices: Use a mandoline for even potato slices, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Cream Alternative: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with milk or half-and-half.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for a unique flavor twist.
Variations
- Potato Gratin Recipe Without Cream: Substitute cream with vegetable or chicken broth for a lighter dish.
- Au Gratin Potatoes with Heavy Cream: Use only heavy cream for an extra creamy texture.
- Cream Cheese Potatoes Au Gratin: Add 4 ounces of cream cheese to the sauce for a richer flavor.
Common Questions
What is the difference between au gratin and gratin?
The terms “au gratin” and “gratin” are often used interchangeably. However, “au gratin” specifically refers to a dish that is topped with breadcrumbs or cheese, creating a golden-brown crust when baked. “Gratin” simply means a dish with a crust.
What does au gratin mean in French?
In French, “au gratin” means “with a crust.” It refers to the technique of baking a dish with a topping of breadcrumbs or cheese to create a crispy crust.
Why is it called au gratin?
The term “au gratin” is derived from the French word “gratter,” meaning “to scrape” or “to grate,” referring to the grated cheese or breadcrumbs used in the dish. It highlights the dish’s signature crispy crust.
What is the gratin technique?
The gratin technique involves baking ingredients with a topping of breadcrumbs or cheese to achieve a golden-brown, crispy crust. It enhances the texture and flavor of the dish.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
Parmesan Crusted Au Gratin Potatoes and Onion is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is sure to impress.
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