Bake potatoes au gratin for a cheesy potato casserole with a delicious golden brown crust.
Potatoes Au Gratin refers to a layered potato casserole with a cheesy cream sauce. "Gratin," a French word, typically refers to a baked dish with a crusty cheese or breadcrumb topping, though cheese versions are favored in the United States. As the casserole bakes, the cheese forms a crust on top of the potatoes, developing a rich flavor and texture. Cheddar cheese is common ingredient in the dish, though other cheese can also be used. Some recipes may also add onions to the dish, but they can easily be omitted.
Instructions
Preparation
1. Wash and peel 2 lbs. of potatoes.
2. Cut the potatoes into 1/8-inch thick slices using a chef's knife or mandolin.
3. Cut one large onion into 1/4-inch thick slices. Separate the layers of the slices and set aside.
4. Coat the inside of a glass baking dish with non-stick spray.
5. Layer the sliced potatoes and onions in the baking dish so that the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
6. Cut 1/4 cup butter into cubes. Scatter the butter over the top of the potato and onion evenly.
7. Sprinkle 1/2 cup cheddar cheese on top of the potatoes.
Sauce
8. Melt 1/4 cup butter in a saucepan.
9. Add 1/4 cup flour, 1 tsp. salt and 1 tsp. pepper to the butter, and mix well.
10. Pour 1.5 cup milk and 1/2 cup cream into the saucepan.
11. Add 1.5 cup cheddar cheese to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the cheese and milk are incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
12. Pour the sauce into the baking dish, spreading it evenly over the layered potatoes, onions and cheese.
Baking
13. Cover the baking dish, and bake at 375 F for 30 minutes.
14. Remove the cover, and check the tenderness of the potato with a fork.
15. Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top forms a golden brown crust.
Tags: baking dish, brown crust, casserole with, cheddar cheese, dish with, golden brown, golden brown crust
