Deliciously Cheesy Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe

As you stand in your kitchen staring at those plain old potatoes, do you ever feel like they need a little something extra? A little pizzazz and flair to take them from dull to delightful? Well, look no further! I’ve got the perfect solution for you: Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin.

Not only are these cheesy and creamy potatoes a crowd-pleaser, but they are also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and the help of your trusty Instant Pot pressure cooker, you can have restaurant-quality potatoes au gratin in no time.

But why settle for just any old plain potato dish when you can have deliciously decadent potatoes au gratin with gooey melted cheese and a crispy golden-brown crust? This dish is perfect for those cold winter nights when you’re craving something hearty yet comforting.

So, whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply elevate your weeknight meals, this Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin recipe is the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Get ready to up your potato game and experience a burst of flavor in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin
Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin

As a chef who creates mouthwatering dishes that keep my customers coming back for more, I can confidently tell you that this Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin recipe is one that you won’t be able to resist.

Why au gratin, you may ask? The answer is simple: It’s delicious! This hearty dish features thinly sliced potatoes layered with creamy cheese sauce and baked until perfect. The result is a rich and satisfying meal that will make your taste buds dance.

But what sets this recipe apart from other potato dishes? First of all, the use of an Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy and quick to prepare. The pressure cooker allows the potatoes to cook evenly and absorbs all the flavors from the broth, heavy cream, and evaporated milk. This means less time slaving over a stove or churning up your oven’s heat.

Not only is it an easy instant pot dish to prepare, but you can also add your own spin on this classic side dish. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan cheese, to give it a unique flavor. Or you could add a sprinkle of chives or parsley flakes on top to add some depth to its flavor profile.

Plus, this recipe also caters to dietary requirements with its many options for substitutions and variations. Whether you’re lactose intolerant or prefer vegetarian versions of your favorite dishes, rest assured that you can still enjoy this cheesy sensation by replacing ingredients accordingly.

So why not add this Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin recipe to your collection? Trust me; it’ll become a staple in no time.

Ingredient List

 Creamy and cheesy potatoes made easy in the Instant Pot!
Creamy and cheesy potatoes made easy in the Instant Pot!

Potatoes: 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and sliced evenly into ¼ inch thick slices.

Water and Salt: 1 cup of water and 1 teaspoon of salt, divided.

Onion and Garlic: 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced, and 1 tsp of minced garlic.

Creams: 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of evaporated milk, and 3 tbsp of heavy whipping cream.

Broth: 1 cup of chicken broth or chicken stock.

Cheeses: 2 cups of grated mozzarella cheese, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and a handful of fresh minced chives.

Note: You can always substitute the cheeses with your preferred choice.

The recipe ingredients are easy to find, and most might have them in their pantry – especially the potatoes, as au gratin or scalloped potatoes is a classic dish that uses potatoes. But what makes this recipe different is its use of an Instant Pot or a pressure cooker. The Instant Pot removes the guesswork from cooking gratin potatoes, making it easier for anyone to enjoy.

The Recipe How-To

 A perfect side dish for any occasion, Potatoes Au Gratin never tasted so good!
A perfect side dish for any occasion, Potatoes Au Gratin never tasted so good!

Once you’ve gathered the ingredients, it’s time to move on to the next step: preparing our easy Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe. With an Instant Pot, this process can be done in minutes, and the end result is a cheesy and creamy dish that everyone will love.

Step 1: Prep your Potatoes

Ingredients:
– 3 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼ inch thick slices

To get started, wash your potatoes thoroughly and then peel them to avoid any unwanted texture. Once you’ve peeled them, slice them evenly into ¼ inch thick slices using a sharp knife or a mandolin slicer.

Step 2: Add Your Ingredients to the Instant Pot

Ingredients:
– Sliced potatoes
– 1 diced yellow onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
1 cup of chicken broth
1 cup of water
– Salt and pepper to taste

After organizing your sliced potatoes in the Instant Pot, add all other recipe ingredients on top of them in one layer, making sure they are evenly spread out. Season everything with salt and pepper according to your personal preferences.

Step 3: Cook in the Instant Pot

Ingredients:
– Everything from Step 2
1 cup of heavy cream
12 oz can of evaporated milk
2 cups of shredded cheese (mozzarella and parmesan)
– Chopped chives for garnishing

Close the lid and set the pressure cooker on high for just five minutes or until you notice that everything is well cooked. Once done, release the steam from the valve and then open it slowly.

Next, add heavy cream along with evaporated milk into pot on top of cooked family-sized gratin potatoes ingredients. Mix everything together gently, coating every inch of onion, garlic, and potatoes with creamy sauce. Then, sprinkle your cheese mixture over the top until it’s melted and bubbly in every corner.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Ingredients:
– Everything from Step 3
– Chopped chives for garnishing

When everything is prepared to your satisfaction, serve it hot, topped with some fresh herbs like chives which will give the dish a bright and herbaceous flavor.

Your Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed by everyone. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a quick and easy potato casserole. Additionally, it’s an ideal side dish that pairs well with any protein, so you can confidently bring this dish to any family gathering or potluck supper.

Substitutions and Variations

 Say goodbye to traditional baked potatoes and hello to this mouth-watering recipe!
Say goodbye to traditional baked potatoes and hello to this mouth-watering recipe!

When it comes to cooking, experimentation is key. Potatoes au gratin is a versatile dish that can accommodate a variety of substitutions and variations to fit your dietary and personal preferences. Here are some suggestions to switch things up and create your own twist on this classic dish:

1. Cheese Variations: While mozzarella and parmesan cheese are popular options for this recipe, you can mix it up by adding other types of cheeses including Gruyere, cheddar, or Swiss cheese.

2. Potatoes: Although russet potatoes are commonly used in this recipe, you can use other varieties like red or gold potatoes for richer flavor.

3. Add Vegetables: For added nutrition and color, you can include vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cauliflower to your potato mix.

4. Meat Additions: Add sliced or ground chicken, beef, or turkey to make the dish even more filling and protein-packed.

5. Vegan Options: Substitute heavy cream and chicken stock with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or vegetable broth. Instead of cheese, use nutritional yeast to add a cheesy taste.

6. Gluten-free Choice: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular all-purpose for the roux, and gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko crumbs for top layers if you are trying to avoid gluten.

Whichever substitution or variation option you choose, be mindful and experiment cautiously for the best results.

Serving and Pairing

 The Instant Pot makes this classic French dish quick and convenient!
The Instant Pot makes this classic French dish quick and convenient!

When it comes to serving and pairing your Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin, the options are endless. This dish is a fantastic side for all sorts of main course meats such as steak, chicken, or fish. It also pairs beautifully with vegetables such as roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus.

If you’re feeling creative, you can even add in some ground beef to make it a meal on its own. The combination of the cheesy scalloped potatoes and savory beef will leave your taste buds dancing in delight.

One of my favorite ways to serve up this dish is with a sprinkle of fresh chives on top, giving it a touch of freshness and color. Another popular option is to mix in parmesan cheese or mozzarella cheese for added flavor and texture.

Aside from the delicious flavors, one of the best things about this dish is that it’s incredibly filling, making it perfect for any type of get-together or event. Whether it’s a family dinner or an office lunch party, Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin are sure to be a hit amongst all your guests.

Serving-wise, you can prepare them in one big baking dish or in individual portions like ramekins or mason jars. They’re easy to plate and serve, making presentation a breeze!

Overall, the great taste and versatility of Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin make them a must-try dish for anyone who loves cheesy scalloped potatoes with minimal effort.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 Layers of tender potatoes smothered in a rich, gooey cheese sauce.
Layers of tender potatoes smothered in a rich, gooey cheese sauce.

Now that you’ve successfully made your Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin, it’s important to know how to store and reheat them properly. These steps will ensure that you can enjoy your delicious leftovers for days to come.

To make ahead these potatoes au gratin, prepare the recipe as directed and let it cool completely. Wrap tightly with aluminum foil, or transfer into an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to a month before reheating.

For storing it in the fridge, let it cool down for about 15-20 minutes before transferring it to a container with a lid. Leftovers can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

When ready to reheat, simply place the desired amount of potatoes au gratin into a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in preheated oven at 325˚F (162°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until bubbling hot.

Remember not to reheat potatoes more than once as they can become dry and lose their flavor when reheated too many times.

If you would like to add more crunch on top of the potatoes au gratin upon reheating, sprinkle some additional cheese and chives onto the dish before placing it into the oven or microwave.

Enjoy your delicious make-ahead potatoes au gratin whenever you crave them without any fuss!

Tips for Perfect Results

 The perfect way to indulge in comfort food without the hassle.
The perfect way to indulge in comfort food without the hassle.

As a chef, I have learned some valuable secret tips to create the perfect Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin. Follow these tips and you’ll never have to worry about your gratin potatoes turning out watery or dry again.

Firstly, it is important to slice your potatoes evenly. They should be not too thick or too thin, around ¼ inch thick, so they cook quickly and evenly. To do this conveniently and efficiently, use a mandolin slicer or a sharp knife.

When making Potatoes Au Gratin, it’s easy for the gratin potatoes to become watery. However, you can prevent this by sprinkling the potatoes with salt before layering them in your Instant Pot or baking dish. This will draw out excess moisture from the potatoes while cooking and keep them from becoming overly soggy.

To achieve creamy scalloped potatoes with a cheesy flavor and texture that complements the other ingredients, do not skimp on cheese. The recipe requires both Parmesan cheese and Mozzarella cheese in addition to heavy cream, evaporated milk as well as chicken broth for ultimate deliciousness.

Additionally, adding chopped fresh chives or parsley flakes at the end of cooking brings an enticing herb flavor to your Potatoes Au Gratin.

For those who don’t have access to chicken broth or prefer not to use it in their cooking, vegetable broths like mushroom or miso can be great substitutes for chicken broth.

Another trick is to cook at high pressure but for a short period of time (around 5 – 6 minutes) under manual pressure so that the slice potatoes and ingredients are perfectly cooked through.

Finally, be sure to let your Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin cool down slightly after cooking to allow the sauce thicken sufficiently that they have set properly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Easy Instant Pot Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes if you follow these tips!

FAQ

Before we wrap up, let’s take a moment to address some common questions and concerns about making Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to using an Instant Pot, these FAQs will help ensure that you get the best possible results from this recipe.

What’s the difference between potatoes au gratin and scalloped potatoes?

The classic recipe for scalloped potatoes does not incorporate cheese. However, some modern versions may have added cheese. In contrast, au gratin potatoes require cheese to be distributed in layers between the potatoes and also on the surface of the dish.

What is the difference between au gratin and gratin?

The key factor in determining whether a dish is considered “au gratin” is whether cheese is used in the recipe. The term itself has French origins, with “gratin” referring to a crispy baked topping. This can be achieved in various ways, regardless of the use of cheese.

What is the recipe for gratin potatoes?

Let’s bring on the heat and preheat our oven to 350°! In a large saucepan, I like to melt some butter over low heat. As it begins to melt, I add some flour, salt and pepper to make a smooth paste. Gradually, I add milk to the mix and stir well to avoid lumps.

Once everything is well combined and I have a creamy and velvety sauce, I transfer it to a greased 2-qt. baking dish. I like my potatoes tender, so I cover the dish and let it bake in the oven for an hour. Then, I uncover it and put it back in the oven for an additional 30-40 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Trust me, this potato dish is going to be the highlight of your dinner!

Why are my au gratin potatoes watery?

Have you ever wondered why your au gratin potatoes turn out watery? One possible reason is that if you stored the sliced potatoes in water to avoid discoloring, but didn’t properly drain them and pat them dry before baking them, you may have introduced excess water into the dish.

Bottom Line

: In conclusion, this Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe is an absolute must-try. With its rich and creamy cheese sauce, tender and flavorful sliced potatoes, and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

So why not give it a try? With the help of your Instant Pot or pressure cooker, you’ll have perfectly cooked and cheesy potatoes in no time. And with endless possibilities for substitutions and variations, you can customize this recipe to your liking.

So don’t wait any longer – make this Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe today and experience the magic of creamy, cheesy gratin potatoes made in your very own kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin

Instant Pot Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe

These potatoes au gratin made in an Instant Pot cuts the cooking time in half compared to the traditional version, but it doesn't skimp on flavor.
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Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine French
Calories 244.1 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 yellow onion, diced
  • 1 cup water
  • 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and very thinly sliced
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chives

Instructions
 

  • In a large measuring cup, stir together the chicken broth, evaporated milk, heavy cream, garlic and onion until well combined.
  • Set a wire trivet in a 6-quart or larger Instant Pot and pour in the water.
  • Grease a 7-inch round casserole dish with cooking spray or butter. Layer the potatoes, both cheeses, and the milk mixture into the prepared baking dish, until all are used up. Cover loosely with foil and place in the Instant Pot. Lock the lid in place, making sure the valve is set to seal. Pressure cook on high for 10 minutes and then do a quick release.
  • Carefully open the lid and remove the dish from the Instant Pot. Uncover and place under the broiler until the top is golden brown. This step is optional. Garnish with chives before serving.

Add Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 234gCalories: 244.1kcalCarbohydrates: 22.9gProtein: 11.7gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7.2gCholesterol: 41.8mgSodium: 340.8mgFiber: 2.5gSugar: 1.6g
Keyword < 30 Mins, Potato, Pressure Cooker, Stove Top, Vegetable
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