These Au Gratin Potato Stacks are a fun twist on a classic! Layers of thinly sliced potatoes get a creamy, cheesy makeover, making them both tasty and pretty on the plate.
Honestly, watching these little stacks bubble away in the oven is like a cooking show moment! 🍽️ I love serving them with a salad for a complete meal that feels fancy but is super easy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yukon Gold Potatoes: These are my go-to for au gratin stacks due to their creamy texture. If you need a substitute, Russet potatoes will work, but they’ll be a bit drier. Red potatoes can also be used for a waxy texture.
Heavy Cream: This gives a rich flavor, but you can swap it with half-and-half for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or a nut milk blended with a bit of flour to thicken.
Gruyere Cheese: This cheese is my favorite for its nutty flavor. If you can’t find Gruyere, try sharp cheddar or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for meltiness and flavor.
Fresh Thyme: Besides thyme, you could use rosemary or even Italian seasoning for a different twist. Dried herbs can replace fresh ones; just remember to use less since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure My Potato Stacks Cook Evenly?
Layering the potato slices properly is key. Make sure to slice them evenly using either a mandoline or a sharp knife. Here’s how to layer without getting overwhelmed:
- Take your time layering, and brush each slice with the cream mixture to stick them together.
- Press down gently as you stack to make sure they’re compact, which helps them cook evenly.
- If using a ring mold, fill it tightly, as this will keep the shape and help them brown nicely.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve perfect, beautifully stacked potatoes that are tasty and elegant!
How to Make Au Gratin Potato Stacks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Stacks:
- 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese (or sharp white cheddar)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus around 45-50 minutes to bake. All in all, you’ll need about 1 hour to have your delicious Au Gratin Potato Stacks ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab a baking sheet and lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper to keep the stacks from sticking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash your Yukon Gold potatoes and thinly slice them using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Aim for uniform slices that are about 1/8 inch thick. This will help them cook evenly!
3. Mix the Creamy Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, fresh thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This creamy mixture is what will make your potatoes rich and flavorful.
4. Build the Potato Stacks:
Now comes the fun part! Using a small ring mold or your hands, layer the potato slices into stacks. Brush each slice lightly with the cream mixture and sprinkle some grated Gruyere cheese in between. Repeat until you have a nice stack.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Carefully place each potato stack on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle a bit more grated cheese on top. Add a little extra salt and pepper if you like.
6. Bake the Potato Stacks:
Pop them in the oven and let them bake for about 45-50 minutes. You want the potatoes to be tender and the tops to be golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
7. Final Touches:
Once baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If you used a ring mold, carefully remove it to reveal your lovely potato stacks.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the stacks with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious cheesy, creamy goodness!
These Au Gratin Potato Stacks are sure to impress with their elegance and flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can use Russet potatoes for a fluffier outcome. Just keep in mind that they may soak up more cream.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the potato stacks ahead of time! Assemble them up to a day in advance, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the crispness.
Can I Make These Dairy-Free?
Sure! You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative, and use vegan cheese for a dairy-free version of these delicious stacks.