Frequently Asked Questions
What are Creamy Rosemary Parmesan Au Gratin Potatoes?
It is a savory side dish consisting of thinly sliced potatoes layered in a garlic and rosemary cream sauce and topped with Parmesan cheese.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 10 servings.
What type of potatoes should I use?
While the recipe specifies 3 lbs of peeled potatoes, Russet or Yukon Gold are traditionally best for au gratin due to their starch content.
Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary with 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How do I make the cream sauce base?
Melt butter in a saucepan, stir in flour to make a roux, and gradually whisk in half-and-half until thickened.
How long do the potatoes need to bake?
Bake covered for 45 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Should the potatoes be peeled?
Yes, the recipe instructions specify that the potatoes should be peeled before slicing.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
Potatoes should be sliced thinly, approximately 1/8 inch thick, for even cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is classified as vegetarian.
Can I substitute the half-and-half cream?
You can use whole milk for a lighter version or heavy cream for a richer dish, though half-and-half provides the intended balance.
How do I prevent the top from burning?
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first 45 minutes of baking.
What size baking dish is required?
A 13x9x2 inch baking dish is recommended.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 360 calories.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 18 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein is in this dish?
Each serving provides 9 grams of protein.
Can I add more garlic?
The recipe calls for 1 clove, but you can certainly add more if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce.
What other cheeses can I use?
While Parmesan is used here, Gruyere, Swiss, or sharp cheddar also work well for au gratin potatoes.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this dish be frozen?
It can be frozen, but the texture of the cream sauce may separate slightly when thawed and reheated.
What is the best way to reheat au gratin potatoes?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil until warm, or use a microwave for individual portions.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish and keep it refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if starting from cold.
What main courses pair well with this side dish?
It pairs beautifully with roasted meats like beef, chicken, or pork tenderloin.
How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?
The potatoes are done when a fork can easily pierce through the layers and the top is golden brown.
Why is flour used in the recipe?
The flour is used to create a roux, which thickens the cream into a stable sauce that coats the potatoes.
Can I add onions to this recipe?
Yes, thinly sliced onions can be layered with the potatoes for added depth of flavor.
What if my sauce is too thin after baking?
Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after taking it out of the oven; the sauce will thicken as it cools slightly.
Can I use other herbs besides rosemary?
Thyme or sage are excellent alternatives if you do not have rosemary on hand.
Can the recipe be doubled?
Yes, but you will need to use two baking dishes or a much larger pan, and the baking time may increase.