Ruth’s Chris Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

Rich, cheesy, and baked until golden brown—these au gratin potatoes from Ruth’s Chris are…well, they’re just addictive!

The key is slicing the potatoes as thin as possible so they cook evenly and soak up all the creamy sauce.

A mix of Gruyère and sharp cheddar gives the best combination of nutty depth and gooey texture.

I always let them rest for 10 minutes after baking so the sauce thickens and doesn’t slide everywhere.

Once that crispy top layer forms, you’re ready to enjoy!

How to Make Ruth’s Chris Au Gratin Potatoes

Ingredients

• 4 large Potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
• 2 cups Heavy Cream
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup Gruyère Cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 3 tbsp Butter
• 1 Onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 3 tbsp Flour
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 425°F.

Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2:

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Step 3:

Gradually whisk in flour, ensuring no lumps form.

Slowly pour in heavy cream while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.

Step 4:

Fold in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.

Add salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5:

Layer sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish.

Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes, ensuring full coverage.

Step 6:

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Remove foil and bake an additional 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose the Right Potatoes

Using starchy potatoes, like Russets or Yukon Golds, can create a creamier texture in your dish.

They will absorb the cheese sauce better and provide the right balance of firmness and softness.

Cheese Quality Matters

Pick high-quality cheeses, as they melt better and bring more flavor to your dish.

Freshly grated cheese is less likely to clump and ensures a smoother sauce.

Make It Ahead

You can make this dish a day in advance and refrigerate it.

When ready to serve, bake it as directed in the final step for best results.

Perfect the Cheese Sauce

Keep whisking the sauce to avoid clumps while adding in the flour and cream.

This will help ensure a velvety, smooth sauce that covers the potatoes evenly.

Customize to Taste

Feel free to add your favorite herbs such as thyme or rosemary to give your dish a personal touch.

They’ll amp up the aroma and add depth to the flavors!

What to Serve with Ruth’s Chris Au Gratin Potatoes

Grilled or Roasted Chicken

You’ll find that grilled or roasted chicken complements the creamy and cheesy flavors of these potatoes perfectly.

A well-seasoned chicken brings savory notes that blend seamlessly with the richness of the gratin.

If you have herbs in your kitchen, like rosemary or thyme, use them to enhance the flavor synergy.

Steak or Prime Rib

Pairing a well-cooked steak or prime rib with these potatoes feels like a match made in heaven.

The hearty meat juxtaposes beautifully with the lusciousness of the potatoes.

A nice wine reduction sauce drizzled over the steak can add an extra depth of flavor.

Sautéed Spinach

A side of sautéed spinach provides a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the rich potatoes.

You can quickly cook the spinach with garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice.

It cleanses the palate and adds a pop of color to your plate.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

This option is a bit unconventional but is a nice way to bring some smokiness.

The crispy bacon pairs with the creamy potatoes in an unexpected, yet delicious, way.

Be sure not to overcook the Brussels sprouts to maintain that desirable texture.

Mushroom Risotto

Another decadent pairing is mushroom risotto, which doubles down on the creaminess of your meal.

The earthy mushrooms add depth, while the risotto’s texture beautifully matches the gratin.

Serve this when you want a luxurious dinner vibe.

Variations and Substitutions

Adding Flavor with Bacon

You can include crispy bacon bits between the layers of potatoes.

This addition brings a smoky and savory element that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Herb Variations

Incorporating herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage into the cream mixture can add fragrant, herbal notes to the dish.

It’s a simple way to introduce an earthy flavor that complements the rich ingredients.

Vegan Alternatives

Switching out the heavy cream and milk for coconut milk or almond milk is a great vegan substitute.

Use dairy-free cheese alternatives to maintain that creamy, cheesy essence.

Cheese Combinations

Experiment with different cheese combinations such as using Gruyère, mozzarella, or Gouda instead of the traditional cheddar mix.

This can make the dish cheesier and more flavorful.

How to Store Leftover Ruth’s Chris Au Gratin Potatoes

Use an Airtight Container

When you’re ready to store the leftovers, use an airtight container to keep the potatoes fresh.

This helps to maintain the creamy texture and rich flavor.

It’s best to choose a container that doesn’t have too much extra space to avoid air exposure.

Place in the Refrigerator

Store the leftover potatoes au gratin in the refrigerator once they’re sealed in an airtight container.

They’ll stay good for up to three days, letting you enjoy that cheesy goodness even later on.

Always keep them in a consistent, cool temperature to prevent any spoilage.

Consider Freezing for Longer Storage

If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a good option.

Wrap the potatoes tightly before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

This allows you to enjoy them weeks later while maintaining the flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding Simmering

You might be tempted to rush the process and boil the mixture instead of simmering it gently.

This mistake can lead to unevenly cooked potatoes, so remember to keep that heat at a simmer!

Not Preheating the Oven

It’s crucial to preheat your oven to the right temperature before placing the dish inside.

Failing to do so could result in the cheese not melting evenly and those potatoes not reaching the tender perfection you’re aiming for!

Skipping Dish Preparation

Make sure to grease your baking dish well with butter.

Skipping this critical step means your potatoes may stick, and you’ll miss out on a beautifully golden crust.