If there’s one dish that can elevate any meal, it’s the decadent Copycat Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin. This creamy, cheesy delight is synonymous with comfort food and gourmet dining. I remember the first time I tasted it at the renowned steakhouse—each bite was a revelation, rich and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, a festive holiday celebration, or simply want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality experience at home, these potatoes are a must-try. What makes them truly special? It’s all in the layers of tender potatoes, a luscious sauce, and a golden, bubbling cheese topping that’s impossible to resist.
Why make this recipe
Reasons to try it
You might be wondering why you should whip up a batch of these Copycat Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin instead of heading out to a restaurant. Well, let me share a few compelling reasons!
First and foremost, this dish is incredibly rich and indulgent, making it perfect for special occasions or when you’re just in need of a little self-care. Not only does it taste like a five-star entrée, but it is also surprisingly simple to prepare with everyday ingredients! Plus, it’s an excellent way to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
“This recipe took me right back to my favorite steakhouse! Creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious – everyone loved it!” – A delighted home cook
Beyond the fantastic flavor and texture, the beauty of these potatoes lies in their versatility. They can be the star of a holiday feast, a delightful side for weeknight dinners, or even a hearty dish to accompany a cozy brunch. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that’s as kid-approved as it is enjoyable for adults?
Preparing Copycat Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin
Step-by-step overview
Before diving into the details, here’s what you need to know: this recipe involves cooking onions and garlic, layering them with tender potatoes, and finishing everything off with a melty cheese topping baked to perfection. It’s a straightforward process that yields restaurant-quality results!
Ingredients
What you’ll need
To create this dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tbsp butter (plus extra for greasing the dish)
- 1/2 medium onion (minced)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1.25 tsp salt (for seasoning)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper (for seasoning)
- 3/4 cup chicken stock (for sauce)
- 1.25 cups heavy cream (for creamy texture)
- 1.5-1.75 lbs russet potatoes (about 5-6, peeled and sliced 1/8 inch thick)
- 3 cups shredded cheese (mix of 2 cups Cheddar, 3/4 cup Fontina or Provolone, and 1/4 cup Parmesan)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Ingredient notes
When selecting your potatoes, russet potatoes are fantastic for getting that perfect creamy texture while still holding shape after baking. If you prefer a different flavor profile, try substituting the cheese with Gruyère or a sharp white cheddar for added zest. Lastly, the heavy cream can be swapped with whole milk for a lighter version, though you’ll lose some of the richness.
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure even baking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it softens, then fold in the garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until the mixture is fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken stock and heavy cream, mixing well. Then, add the thinly sliced potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated in the sauce.
- Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook until the potatoes are nearly tender, about 15-20 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally.
- While the potatoes are cooking, butter an 8×8-inch baking dish (or five to six small individual dishes).
- Once the potatoes are tender, transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with an even layer of the shredded cheese mixture.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and a beautiful golden brown.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley to add a touch of freshness, then serve warm. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
How to serve Copycat Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin
Serving suggestions
You can serve these Copycat Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin as an incredible side alongside juicy steaks, grilled chicken, or even roasted vegetables. They pair beautifully with a fresh green salad to balance out the creaminess.
For a more unique twist, consider serving them in individual ramekins for a more upscale presentation at your next dinner party. You can also drizzle a bit of truffle oil on top before serving for an extra layer of indulgence. Accompany your meal with a robust red wine, which will beautifully complement the richness of the cheese.
How to store
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you happen to have any leftovers—though I can’t imagine that will happen—these potatoes store well in the refrigerator. Simply place them in an airtight container, and they’ll keep for about 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, feel free to reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, typically around 15-20 minutes. If you want to freeze them, be sure to freeze them before baking. They can last in the freezer for about 2 months. Remember to cover them tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
To ensure your Copycat Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin reach their fullest potential, consider these tips:
- For perfectly thin potato slices, use a mandoline slicer; it saves time and ensures even cooking.
- Don’t rush the simmering process; giving the potatoes time to soften before baking will help achieve that creamy consistency.
- Experiment with cheese combinations! A mix of different cheeses will elevate the flavor and texture, giving you delightful variations.
- For a crispy topping, broil for an additional minute or so after baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
Variations
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! If you’re looking for something a little healthier, you could substitute half of the russet potatoes with cauliflower for a sneak peek of veggies that still keep the creamy essence.
For spice lovers, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or some jalapeños can add an exciting kick! Additionally, try adding cooked bacon or ham for a savory punch. Each variation can bring a delightful twist to this classic dish.
Common questions
Your questions answered
1. How much prep time is needed?
You can prep this dish in about 30 minutes. Most of this time is spent slicing the potatoes and cooking the onions.
2. Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses based on your taste preferences. Cheddar, Gruyère, or even a tangy goat cheese can elevate the dish.
3. Is it safe to freeze this dish?
Yes, but freeze before baking to maintain the quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to bake, and then follow the baking instructions.
4. How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Simply substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock and omit any meat add-ins. The creamy cheese sauce is flavorful enough on its own!
Baking up a batch of Copycat Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin is, without a doubt, a rewarding endeavor. With its luscious flavors and the wow factor it brings to any occasion, you’ll find it hard to resist serving it time and again. Enjoy!
Print
Copycat Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent and creamy side dish featuring layers of tender potatoes, a luscious sauce, and a bubbling cheese topping, perfect for special occasions or any comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter (plus extra for greasing the dish)
- 1/2 medium onion (minced)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1.25 tsp salt (for seasoning)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper (for seasoning)
- 3/4 cup chicken stock (for sauce)
- 1.25 cups heavy cream (for creamy texture)
- 1.5–1.75 lbs russet potatoes (about 5-6, peeled and sliced 1/8 inch thick)
- 3 cups shredded cheese (mix of 2 cups Cheddar, 3/4 cup Fontina or Provolone, and 1/4 cup Parmesan)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure even baking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it softens, then fold in the garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until the mixture is fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken stock and heavy cream, mixing well. Then, add the thinly sliced potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated in the sauce.
- Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook until the potatoes are nearly tender, about 15-20 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally.
- While the potatoes are cooking, butter an 8×8-inch baking dish (or five to six small individual dishes).
- Once the potatoes are tender, transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with an even layer of the shredded cheese mixture.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and a beautiful golden brown.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley to add a touch of freshness, then serve warm.
Notes
For perfectly thin potato slices, use a mandoline slicer; it saves time and ensures even cooking. To achieve a crispy topping, broil for an additional minute or so after baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Potatoes au Gratin, Comfort Food, Cheesy Potatoes, Side Dish