Potatoes au gratin, loaded with cheese, cream, and garlic, is the epitome of comfort food. This dish, popularized by the Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, isn’t just delicious; it’s also surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a fuss-free weeknight meal or an impressive side dish for your holiday feast. Inspired by Ree’s “Food from my Frontier” cookbook, this recipe elevates the humble potato to gourmet status with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Close-up shot of creamy and cheesy Pioneer Woman au gratin potatoes, showcasing the golden-brown top and bubbly cheese.
Why Pioneer Woman’s Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe is a Must-Try
Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, is renowned for her approachable and flavorful recipes that resonate with home cooks. Her potatoes au gratin recipe is no exception. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and rich, comforting taste. Unlike complicated gratins, this version requires minimal prep time and utilizes pantry staples, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The combination of creamy textures, cheesy goodness, and savory garlic creates a dish that is both satisfying and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this Pioneer Woman potatoes au gratin recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman’s Potatoes Au Gratin
To create this delectable side dish, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create magic:
- Potatoes: 6-7 small potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well), scrubbed and diced. The original recipe calls for “big potatoes,” but using small to medium potatoes ensures even cooking and perfect portion sizes.
- Dairy: 1/2 cup whole milk and 1 1/2 cups heavy cream form the creamy base. Using whole milk adds richness, while heavy cream contributes to the luxurious texture of the gratin.
- Flavor Enhancers: 2 tablespoons butter (room temperature), 3-5 garlic cloves (minced), 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste. Garlic is key to the savory depth of flavor, and the salt and pepper enhance all the other ingredients.
- Cheese: 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (white or yellow cheddar works beautifully). Cheddar provides a classic cheesy flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Garnish: Fresh chives, thinly sliced, for a touch of freshness and visual appeal. Chives add a mild oniony flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
- Flour: 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour to help thicken the creamy sauce.
Overhead view of the ingredients for Pioneer Woman's potatoes au gratin laid out on a kitchen counter, including potatoes, cheese, cream, milk, garlic, butter, flour and chives.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pioneer Woman Au Gratin Potatoes
Follow these easy instructions to create your own batch of creamy, cheesy potatoes au gratin:
- Prep the Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Butter a shallow baking dish (around 9×13 inches) and set aside. This prevents sticking and adds a subtle buttery flavor to the edges of the gratin.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Dice the scrubbed potatoes into uniform pieces. Place them in the buttered baking dish, spreading them evenly.
- Make the Cream Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until smooth to prevent lumps. Add the minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the cream mixture and whisk again to combine all the flavors.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cream sauce evenly over the diced potatoes in the baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake Covered: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes with the foil on. This steams the potatoes and allows them to cook through in the creamy sauce.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly.
- Add Cheese and Melt: Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the freshly sliced chives over the cheesy potatoes au gratin. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Image showing the finished Pioneer Woman potatoes au gratin, golden brown and bubbly, ready to be served, with a spoon scooping out a portion.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Pioneer Woman’s au gratin potatoes are incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic side dish for a variety of main courses, including:
- Holiday Meals: Perfect alongside roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.
- Weeknight Dinners: Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, pork chops, or roasted sausages for a comforting family meal.
- Special Occasions: Elevate any dinner party or potluck with this crowd-pleasing gratin.
Variations to Explore:
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for varied flavor profiles.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper to the cream sauce for a subtle warmth.
- Add Onions: Sauté thinly sliced onions or shallots in butter before adding them to the potato mixture for extra flavor depth.
- Herb Infusions: Infuse the cream with fresh thyme or rosemary for an herby twist.
Conclusion: Indulge in Pioneer Woman’s Creamy Potatoes Au Gratin
Pioneer Woman’s potatoes au gratin recipe is a guaranteed winner for anyone seeking a comforting, cheesy, and easy-to-make side dish. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can effortlessly create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Bring the warmth and flavor of Ree Drummond’s frontier kitchen to your table and enjoy this classic comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds. Try this recipe tonight and experience the magic of Pioneer Woman’s cooking!
