Originally posted on November 16, 2023 @ 8:35 am
Au gratin potatoes are a beloved comfort food with their creamy texture and cheesy flavor. But what should you serve with this classic dish to take the meal to the next level? Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, there are numerous delectable dishes that pair perfectly with au gratin potatoes.
From mouthwatering meat options to fresh salad creations, the possibilities are endless. This article will explore a variety of tasty options for serving with au gratin potatoes. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Au gratin potatoes are a creamy and cheesy comfort food.
- There are numerous delectable dishes that pair perfectly with au gratin potatoes.
- From mouthwatering meat options to fresh salad creations, the possibilities are endless.
- Consider serving au gratin potatoes with grilled vegetables, comforting soups, or international cuisines.
- Experiment with different combinations to find your personal favorites.
Mouthwatering Meat Options
If you’re searching for the perfect side dish for your meat-based meal, look no further than au gratin potatoes. The creamy, cheesy flavors of this dish complement a range of meats, creating a mouthwatering combination that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Steak
For a classic steak dinner, pair your juicy cut of meat with a heaping helping of au gratin potatoes. The richness of the dish perfectly balances the bold flavors of the steak, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Roasted Chicken
Roasted chicken is a comforting and delicious meal that pairs perfectly with au gratin potatoes. The creamy texture of the potatoes adds an indulgent touch to the dish, while the cheesy flavors provide a savory contrast to the tender chicken meat.
Grilled Pork Chops
For a flavorful and satisfying pork-based meal, try serving grilled pork chops with au gratin potatoes. The smoky char of the pork pairs beautifully with the creamy potatoes, creating a well-balanced and delicious dish.
With these delicious pairings, you’re sure to impress your dinner guests or family members with your culinary skills. Au gratin potatoes make the perfect side dish for any meat-based meal, providing a satisfying and indulgent touch to each bite.
Seafood Delights
When it comes to finding the perfect compliments for au gratin potatoes, few options can top the pairing with seafood dishes. The creamy, indulgent flavors of the potatoes are the perfect match for the delicate flavors of seafood, creating a satisfying and harmonious meal.
Here are some of the tastiest options for serving with au gratin potatoes:
| Seafood Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Seared Scallops | Scallops seared to perfection, with a buttery and sweet flavor that complements the potatoes. |
| Grilled Salmon | Freshly grilled salmon brings a smoky and rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheesy potatoes. |
| Buttery Shrimp | Shrimp cooked with butter, garlic, and herbs, providing a tasty contrast to the creamy potatoes. |
These seafood dishes are just a few examples of the many ways to combine with au gratin potatoes to create a memorable meal. Experiment with different seafood options to find your personal favorite, or try adding a splash of lemon for an extra burst of flavor.
Vegetable Medley
If you’re looking for popular choices for serving with au gratin potatoes, a vegetable medley is a great option. Roasting or sautéing vegetables is a creative idea for serving au gratin potatoes. These veggies provide a delicious contrast to the creamy potatoes, adding color, texture, and plenty of nutrients to your meal. Some examples of veggies that go well with au gratin potatoes are:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts: The nutty and slightly sweet flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts pair perfectly with the savory and cheesy flavors of au gratin potatoes.
- Honey-glazed carrots: The sweet and savory flavor of honey-glazed carrots provides a delightful contrast to the indulgent flavors of the potatoes.
- Sautéed green beans: The crisp texture and fresh flavor of sautéed green beans provide a perfect balance to the creamy and rich flavors of the potatoes.
If you want to showcase the deliciousness of these vegetables and how they pair with au gratin potatoes, try creating a colorful and visually appealing table:
| Vegetables | Preparation Method | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Brussels sprouts | Roasted | Nutty and slightly sweet |
| Carrots | Honey-glazed | Sweet and savory |
| Green beans | Sautéed | Crisp and fresh |
With a vegetable medley, you can add some color and nutrition to your meal while complementing the creamy and indulgent flavors of au gratin potatoes. It’s a win-win situation!
Fresh Salad Creations
Looking for some flavorful combinations to serve with your au gratin potatoes? Look no further than fresh salads! A crisp and refreshing salad can provide the perfect contrast to the creamy and cheesy flavors of the potatoes.
A Caesar salad is a classic option that pairs well with au gratin potatoes. Top it with homemade dressing and fresh Parmesan cheese for a truly delicious and satisfying meal. Alternatively, a Caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a tangy balsamic glaze can also be a delightful addition to your plate.
For a more filling salad, try adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to your greens. The added protein will complement the potatoes and bring a satisfying balance to your meal.
Our top recommendations for serving au gratin potatoes with salad are:
- Classic Caesar salad with homemade dressing and fresh Parmesan cheese.
- Caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a tangy balsamic glaze.
- Grilled chicken or shrimp salad for a more filling option.
Experiment with different salad dressings and toppings to find the perfect combination for your au gratin potatoes. The possibilities are endless!
Mouthwatering Meat Options
Au gratin potatoes make an excellent side dish to a wide range of meats. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, these delicious pairings will surely elevate your meal. Here are some side dishes for au gratin potatoes that will complement your meat:
Steak
Pair your au gratin potatoes with a succulent steak for a hearty and savory meal. Whether you prefer tenderloin, ribeye, or sirloin, the creamy and cheesy flavors of the potatoes perfectly complement the rich flavors of the steak. Add some roasted broccoli or grilled asparagus to your plate for a balanced meal.
Roasted Chicken
For a classic and comforting meal, serve your au gratin potatoes alongside juicy roasted chicken. The tender meat of the chicken pairs well with the creamy texture of the potatoes, creating a satisfying and flavorful combination. Add a side of carrots and green beans for a pop of color and nutrients.
Grilled Pork Chops
When it comes to pairing au gratin potatoes with pork, grilled pork chops are a tasty choice. The smoky and savory flavors of the chops complement the cheesy and creamy flavors of the potatoes, creating a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Add some roasted brussels sprouts or sautéed mushrooms to your plate for some extra depth and nutrition.
These mouthwatering meat options are just a few examples of the many delicious pairings for au gratin potatoes. Get creative and experiment with different meats and flavors to find your personal favorites.
Bread Basket Additions
Complete your meal by serving au gratin potatoes with a variety of bread basket options. Warm dinner rolls, crusty baguettes, or garlic breadsticks make excellent accompaniments, allowing you to savor every bite of the creamy potatoes.
For a gourmet touch, try serving fresh artisanal bread with infused oils or flavored butter. The combination of warm, crusty bread and creamy potatoes is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider serving your potatoes with a side of corn tortillas or gluten-free crackers. These options offer a crispy and satisfying contrast to the velvety texture of the potatoes.
Best accompaniments for au gratin potatoes, perfect compliments for au gratin potatoes
International Flavors
Looking to add some international flair to your au gratin potato dish? Look no further than these tasty options for serving with au gratin potatoes.
If you’re in the mood for a little spice, try serving your au gratin potatoes with a delicious Mexican-inspired dish like chicken enchiladas or beef fajitas. The creamy potatoes provide a perfect balance to the bold flavors and heat of the dish.
For something a little more classic, Italian cuisine provides plenty of popular choices for serving with au gratin potatoes. Offer them alongside a hearty lasagna or stuffed shells for a comforting and satisfying meal.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try pairing your potatoes with an Asian-inspired dish like stir-fried vegetables or a spicy pad thai? The rich, indulgent flavors of the potatoes help to balance out the bold, spicy flavors of these dishes.
No matter what type of international cuisine you choose, the creamy, cheesy goodness of au gratin potatoes is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not experiment with some new and exciting flavor combinations and discover your new favorite dish?
Grilled Vegetable Medley
If you’re looking for creative ideas for serving au gratin potatoes, consider pairing them with a flavorful combination of grilled vegetables. Grilling vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delicious smoky flavor that complements the creamy potatoes perfectly.
To create a grilled vegetable medley, start by selecting an assortment of your favorite vegetables. Some popular choices include:
| Vegetables | Seasoning | Grilling Time |
|---|---|---|
| Zucchini | Olive oil, salt, pepper | 5-7 minutes |
| Bell peppers | Balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, pepper | 8-10 minutes |
| Eggplant | Lemon juice, oregano, garlic, salt, pepper | 7-9 minutes |
Once you’ve selected your vegetables and seasoning, cut them into evenly sized pieces and toss them in the seasoning mixture. Grill the vegetables until they’re tender and slightly charred.
When it comes time to serve, arrange the vegetables alongside the creamy, cheesy au gratin potatoes for a colorful and satisfying dish. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, for an extra burst of flavor.
Savory Sausage Sides
Au gratin potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to a variety of savory sausage sides. For a comforting and hearty meal, consider serving the creamy potatoes alongside grilled bratwurst, smoky kielbasa, or spicy Italian sausage. The rich and cheesy flavors of the potatoes pair perfectly with the bold and flavorful sausages.
If you’re looking to add some extra kick to your meal, try pairing au gratin potatoes with Andouille sausage, which brings a spicy and smoky flavor to the dish. Or, for a more traditional pairing, serve the potatoes alongside classic breakfast sausages like maple or applewood smoked sausage.
For those who prefer a meat-free option, veggie sausage is a great alternative. Many brands offer plant-based sausage options, including soy-based or vegetable-protein-based sausages.
Roasted Vegetable Medley
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delicious depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy au gratin potatoes. Here are some of the best accompaniments for au gratin potatoes:
| Vegetable | Preparation | Seasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Carrots | Roasted | Thyme, garlic, honey |
| Parsnips | Roasted | Rosemary, olive oil, salt, pepper |
| Sweet potatoes | Roasted | Cinnamon, brown sugar, nutmeg |
The combination of rich, creamy potatoes and caramelized roasted vegetables is a match made in culinary heaven. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. This is one of the perfect compliments for au gratin potatoes – a medley of roasted vegetables that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
Experiment with different combinations and find your personal favorites! Whether you’re serving a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this vegetable medley is a surefire way to elevate your meal and impress your guests. Enjoy!
Conclusion
Au gratin potatoes are a delicious and versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of flavors. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or as part of a larger meal, the creamy and cheesy flavors of au gratin potatoes make them a popular choice among food enthusiasts.
Throughout this article, we’ve explored a wide range of delectable dishes that pair perfectly with au gratin potatoes, from mouthwatering meat options to comforting soups and bread basket additions. We’ve also offered creative ideas for serving au gratin potatoes alongside grilled and roasted vegetables, as well as international cuisines.
Now it’s your turn to get creative and experiment with different combinations of flavors to find your personal favorite way to serve au gratin potatoes. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, you’re sure to impress your guests with this delicious and satisfying dish. So go ahead and indulge in the creamy and cheesy goodness of au gratin potatoes, and enjoy every bite!
FAQ
What are au gratin potatoes?
Au gratin potatoes are a classic dish made with sliced potatoes baked in a creamy cheese sauce. The top layer is typically browned and crispy, adding a delicious crunch to the creamy potatoes.
How do I make au gratin potatoes?
To make au gratin potatoes, start by slicing potatoes into thin rounds. Then, layer the potatoes in a baking dish, alternating with a mixture of cream, cheese, and seasonings. Bake in the oven until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
Can I make au gratin potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, au gratin potatoes can be made ahead of time. Prepare the dish as instructed, but instead of baking it, cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, remove the foil and bake until heated through and the top is crispy.
What type of cheese should I use for au gratin potatoes?
The most common cheese used for au gratin potatoes is cheddar, but you can also experiment with other types of cheese like Gruyère, Parmesan, or a combination of cheeses for different flavors.
Can I add other ingredients to au gratin potatoes?
Absolutely! Au gratin potatoes can be customized with additional ingredients to add more flavor. Some popular additions include bacon, onions, garlic, herbs, or even vegetables like spinach or broccoli.
What can I serve with au gratin potatoes for a complete meal?
Au gratin potatoes can be served as a side dish alongside a variety of main courses. Some options include roasted meats like steak, chicken, or pork, seafood dishes like salmon or shrimp, or even vegetarian options like grilled vegetables or a hearty salad.
How long do au gratin potatoes last in the refrigerator?
Leftover au gratin potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to transfer them to an airtight container before refrigerating.
Can I freeze au gratin potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze au gratin potatoes for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze them before baking, as freezing may affect the texture of the potatoes. Thaw the dish in the refrigerator before baking as usual.
Can I reheat au gratin potatoes?
Absolutely! To reheat au gratin potatoes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with foil, and bake for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave using short bursts of heat, stirring in between.
What are some variations of au gratin potatoes?
While the classic version of au gratin potatoes is always delicious, you can get creative and try some variations. For example, you can add different cheeses, herbs, or spices to elevate the flavors. You can also experiment with different types of potatoes, like sweet potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes, for a unique twist.
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