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southwest au gratin potatoes recipe

Southwest Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

This delicious, cheesy recipe is a perfect side for weeknight dinners, and it can easily become a crowd-pleaser at holiday gatherings like Christmas and Thanksgiving.
Tender slices of potatoes, layered with a mix of cheeses and a hint of southwestern flavors, come together to create a sumptuous dish that you won't soon forget.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Side Dish
Servings 4
Equipment
  • 1 baking dish
  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 medium-sized saucepan
Ingredients
  
  • 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes or russet potatoes
  • 2 tbsp Kosher salt:
  • 2 Green chiles
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 1/4 cups Heavy whipping cream
  • Cooking spray
  • 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
  • Southwestern seasonings e.g., cumin, paprika, chili powder:
  • 1/2 teaspoon hot chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 cups Cheese e.g., smoked cheddar, pepper jack
Instructions
 
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare a baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray.
  • Slice the potatoes about 1/8-inch (3mm) thick using a mandoline or carefully with a knife.
    If using Yukon gold potatoes, you'll need about 4-6 medium-sized potatoes.
    If using russet potatoes, aim for 3-4 large potatoes.
    In a large bowl, season the potato slices with 1 teaspoon salt and your preferred southwestern seasonings.
    Mix well to evenly coat the potato slices.
  • Prepare the cheese sauce by mincing 2-3 garlic cloves and setting them aside.
    In a medium-sized saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
    Add 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
    Gradually whisk in 2 cups of heavy whipping cream and bring the mixture to a boil.
    Cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
    Remove from heat, and stir in the minced garlic and 2 cups of shredded cheese, such as smoked cheddar or pepper jack.
  • Finely chop the green chiles (2-3, depending on your heat preference) and add them to the cheese sauce.
    Stir until combined.
  • Assemble the casserole by spreading a thin layer of cheese sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
    Arrange a layer of potato slices on top of the sauce, followed by more cheese sauce.
    Continue layering the potato and sauce until all the ingredients have been used, ensuring the final layer is the sauce.
    If desired, sprinkle the top with additional cheese.
  • Bake the casserole for 60-75 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is bubbly and golden brown.
    Let the Southwest Au Gratin Potatoes rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
    Enjoy your delicious and savory dish!
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