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Au Gratin Potatoes for Two Recipe


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3.8 from 1 review

  • Author: Molly
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Au Gratin Potatoes for Two recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting side dish perfect for a cozy dinner. Featuring tender Yukon Gold potatoes baked in a rich cheddar cheese sauce with a touch of mustard and cayenne, it’s ideal for date nights or any special meal. Easily prepared in small baking dishes, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses.


Ingredients

For the Baking Dishes

  • Butter, oil, or cooking spray, for greasing

POTATO LAYER

  • 3-4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, approximately 12 ounces, thinly sliced (3-3 1/2 cups)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

CHEESE SAUCE

  • 1 1/4 cups heavy cream, or enough to cover potatoes
  • 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
  • Pinch cayenne pepper
  • Salt, to taste
  • White or black pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • Chopped fresh chives or parsley, for garnish


Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare baking dishes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease two small baking dishes with butter, oil, or cooking spray so they’re ready to hold the potatoes and cheese sauce.
  2. Simmer potatoes, onion, and garlic: In a small saucepan, combine the thinly sliced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, heavy cream, salt, and white or black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, cooking the potatoes softly for 5 minutes once simmering begins. Stir carefully to avoid breaking the potato slices.
  3. Drain and cool potatoes: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the potatoes, onion, and garlic mixture to a bowl and allow it to cool slightly so they’re easier to handle during layering.
  4. Prepare cheese sauce: Return the cream from the saucepan to low heat and whisk in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth. Stir in dry mustard, a pinch of cayenne pepper, and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Assemble the gratin: In each baking dish, layer one-third of the potatoes, then drizzle with one-third of the cheese sauce. Repeat the layering two more times, finishing with cheese sauce on top.
  6. Bake the gratins: Place the baking dishes on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and sauce is bubbling. Remove foil 10-15 minutes before baking ends to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
  7. Garnish and serve: Once baked, garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley. Serve warm as a delicious side dish perfect for two.

Notes

  • Thinly slicing the potatoes ensures they cook evenly and become tender within the baking time.
  • Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, but other waxy potatoes can be substituted.
  • If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper quantity based on your spice tolerance.
  • Covering the gratins initially prevents the top from drying out while allowing the cheese to brown beautifully when uncovered.
  • Make sure the cheese is fully melted into the cream for a smooth sauce before baking.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American