Introduction
Are you ready to bring the magic of a high-end steakhouse right into your own kitchen? Today, we’re diving into the legendary “Potatoes Au Gratin” from Ruth’s Chris Steak House. This dish is pure comfort food, featuring thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, creamy, cheesy sauce until golden and bubbly. It’s the ultimate side dish, incredibly indulgent, and absolutely unforgettable.
You might think a dish this luxurious would be complicated, but I promise you, it’s surprisingly simple to make at home. With just a few common ingredients and straightforward steps, you can recreate that iconic taste without the hefty restaurant bill. Most of the work is hands-off, allowing your oven to do the heavy lifting while you relax.
So, get ready to impress your family and friends, or simply treat yourself to something truly special. This copycat recipe delivers all the flavor and elegance you expect. Let’s get cooking and create some delicious memories!
Cooking Time & Prep Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 100 minutes
Small tip: Prepping your ingredients ahead of time, especially slicing the potatoes, will make the assembly process much smoother and faster.
Ingredients
This recipe makes 8 generous servings.
For the Potatoes
- 3 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and very thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
For the Cheese Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups (8 oz) shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 cup (4 oz) shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup (2 oz) shredded Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Step 1: Prepare Your Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Peel your Russet potatoes, then slice them very thinly, about 1/8-inch thick. A mandoline slicer works wonders for this, ensuring even thickness for consistent cooking.
Small tip: If you don’t have a mandoline, a sharp chef’s knife and a steady hand will also work. Just try to keep the slices as uniform as possible.
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Step 2: Start the Roux for the Sauce
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until a smooth paste, called a roux, forms. This step helps thicken your sauce beautifully.
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Step 3: Whisk in the Liquids
Gradually pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken slightly, about 5-7 minutes. It should be just simmering, not boiling vigorously.
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Step 4: Add Seasonings and Cheese
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the salt, black pepper, ground nutmeg, garlic powder, and onion powder. Now, add the shredded Gruyere cheese and sharp white cheddar cheese, stirring until they are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
Small tip: Removing the sauce from the heat before adding the cheese helps prevent it from becoming oily or clumping.
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Step 5: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce
Arrange one-third of the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Pour about one-third of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Repeat this layering process two more times, ending with a final layer of cheese sauce on top.
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Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Small tip: To check for doneness, gently insert a knife into the center of the dish; it should slide in easily with little resistance.
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Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the potatoes au gratin from the oven. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the sauce to set and makes for cleaner slices.
Tips & Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (ensure it’s suitable for gravies/sauces) or by using 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water as a slurry. Add the slurry at the end of Step 3 and whisk until thickened.
- Vegetarian Option: This recipe is already vegetarian! For a dairy-free or vegan version, you would need to replace all dairy products with plant-based alternatives (vegan butter, plant-based heavy cream, and vegan shredded cheeses).
- Add More Vegetables or Protein: For extra flavor and heartiness, sauté some thinly sliced onions or mushrooms and layer them with the potatoes. Cooked, crumbled bacon bits or diced ham can also be added between layers for a protein boost.
- Spicy Version: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce in Step 4. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking.
- Flavor Boost: Experiment with different cheeses! While Gruyere and sharp cheddar are classic, Fontina, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses can add interesting flavor profiles. A sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary tucked into the layers during baking also adds a lovely herbal note.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 580
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 39g
Please note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific brands and exact amounts of ingredients used.
Health Benefits
While this dish is certainly an indulgence, its core ingredients offer some valuable nutrients!
Potatoes, often misunderstood, are a fantastic source of energy. They provide complex carbohydrates, which fuel your body and brain. They are also rich in Vitamin C, an important antioxidant, and Vitamin B6, essential for metabolism. Plus, they offer a good amount of potassium, which is vital for heart health and maintaining fluid balance.
The dairy in this dish, including heavy cream and various cheeses, contributes significantly to your calcium intake. Calcium is crucial for strong bones and teeth, and it also plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction. Dairy products also provide protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
Gruyere and cheddar cheeses, beyond their incredible flavor, offer a good source of protein and healthy fats. In moderation, these fats can help with nutrient absorption and provide satiety. They also contain various vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A and zinc.
Garlic and onion powder, while used for flavor, contain compounds that have been studied for their potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. So, while enjoying this rich dish, you’re also getting a little bonus of beneficial components from these aromatic spices.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Pairing: This Potatoes Au Gratin is the quintessential side for a perfectly seared steak, roasted prime rib, or a tender pork loin.
- Poultry Perfection: Serve it alongside a juicy roasted chicken or a succulent turkey breast for an elevated weeknight meal or holiday feast.
- Hearty Vegetarian Meal: Pair it with a robust green salad and some crusty bread for a satisfying and comforting vegetarian dinner.
- Meal Prep Idea: Bake the entire dish, then divide leftovers into individual portions. It reheats beautifully, making for delicious lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Storage Tips
Leftover Potatoes Au Gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place in freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Remove foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the top.
Conclusion
And there you have it – your very own Copycat Ruth’s Chris Potatoes Au Gratin! This dish is truly a showstopper, combining tender, thinly sliced potatoes with a velvety, cheesy sauce and a golden, bubbly crust. It’s the kind of side dish that steals the spotlight and leaves everyone asking for the recipe.
You’ve seen how simple it is to achieve restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen. Don’t be intimidated by its fancy name; the process is straightforward, and the payoff is absolutely worth it. The rich, comforting flavors are perfect for any occasion, from a special holiday dinner to a cozy weekend meal.
So go ahead, give this recipe a try! Gather your loved ones around the table and share this incredible creation. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s an experience, a taste of luxury made with love at home. Happy cooking!
