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Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken stock and heavy cream, stirring to combine. This will create the base of your creamy sauce.
Add Potatoes: Gently stir in the sliced russet potatoes. The potatoes should be sliced thinly (1/8 inch thick) to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Simmer the Potatoes
Bring to Simmer: Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Avoid a full boil to prevent the cream from curdling.
Cook: Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let the mixture simmer gently. Cook until the potatoes are nearly tender when pierced with a knife, which will take about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt and pepper to suit your taste.
Prepare the Casserole Dish
Grease the Dish: While the potatoes are simmering, butter an 8 x 8-inch baking dish or equivalent-sized dish. If you prefer individual servings, you can use five to six small casserole dishes.
Assemble the Dish
Transfer Mixture: Once the potatoes are nearly tender, transfer the mixture from the skillet to the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the mixed cheeses (Cheddar, Fontina or Provolone, and Parmesan) evenly over the top of the potatoes. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust.
Bake the Dish
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden brown. The exact baking time may vary depending on the size and depth of your dish.
Cool Slightly: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the cheese set slightly and make serving easier.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle the top with about 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Serve: Scoop out portions of the creamy, cheesy potatoes and enjoy. They pair wonderfully with a variety of main courses and are sure to be a hit at any meal.
Variations and Tips
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations based on your preference. Gruyère, Gouda, or even a mix of your favorite cheeses can be used to customize the flavor.
Vegetable Additions: For added flavor and texture, consider mixing in vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or chopped spinach.
Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble the casserole up to the baking stage, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through.
Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, make sure to use gluten-free chicken stock and ensure your cheese is free from any added gluten.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Copycat Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish that brings the comforting elegance of a high-end restaurant right into your home. With its layers of tender potatoes enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce, this recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to please any palate. Whether served as a side dish at a holiday feast or as a comforting addition to a family dinner, these potatoes au gratin are both satisfying and versatile.
Making this dish at home allows you to enjoy the luxury of Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin without the need for a reservation. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients, prepared with care, can create a dish that feels both special and comforting. Each bite is a reminder of the joy of home-cooked meals and the pleasure of sharing them with loved ones. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor a dish that’s sure to become a cherished part of your recipe collection.
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