Cheesy Mini Gratin Dauphinois Potato Stacks are a delightful twist on the classic French dish, featuring thinly sliced potatoes layered with creamy cheese sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. Here’s how you can make them:
Ingredients:
- 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (or any other melting cheese like Swiss or cheddar)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes and thinly slice them using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. Pat the potato slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and minced garlic. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Stacks:
- Brush the bottom of each muffin cup with melted butter.
- Layer the sliced potatoes in each muffin cup, filling them about halfway.
- Pour a spoonful of the cheese sauce over the potatoes in each cup, making sure to coat the potatoes evenly.
- Continue layering potatoes and cheese sauce until each cup is filled to the top. Press down gently to compact the layers.
- Bake:
- Cover the muffin tin with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the tops are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Remove the potato stacks from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes.
- Carefully remove the potato stacks from the muffin tin using a spoon or knife, and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley, if desired, before serving.
- Enjoy!
These Cheesy Mini Gratin Dauphinois Potato Stacks are a delicious and elegant side dish that pairs well with roasted meats, poultry, or fish. Serve them hot as a delightful addition to your next dinner party or holiday feast.