Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory White Cheddar Potato Gratin?
It is a comforting side dish consisting of thinly sliced russet potatoes layered with sharp white cheddar cheese and a rosemary-infused cream sauce.
What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 lbs of russet potatoes, which are peeled and cut into 1/4 inch-thick rounds.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking the gratin.
What size baking dish is recommended?
A 13 x 9 inch glass baking dish is recommended for this recipe.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the dish?
Grease the glass baking dish with butter before adding any ingredients to prevent sticking.
What ingredients are in the cream mixture?
The mixture consists of 2.5 cups of whipping cream, 3/4 cup finely chopped shallots, 2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary, salt, and ground black pepper.
How much white cheddar cheese is used?
The recipe requires 2 cups (approximately 8 ounces) of packed grated sharp white cheddar cheese.
How are the layers of the gratin assembled?
Arrange half the potatoes, sprinkle 3/4 cup of cheese, add the remaining potatoes, pour the cream mixture over them, and top with the remaining cheese.
Should I cover the gratin while it bakes?
Yes, cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for the first hour to allow the potatoes to soften.
How long does the gratin bake uncovered?
After the first hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 45 minutes until the top is golden brown.
How can I tell when the potatoes are fully cooked?
The potatoes are done when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
Why is it important to let the dish cool before serving?
Allowing the gratin to cool for at least 10 minutes helps the cream and cheese layers set for easier serving.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 8 servings.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Savory White Cheddar Potato Gratin is categorized as a vegetarian dish.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 364 calories.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 24 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
One serving contains 29 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides 8.5 grams of protein.
Can I use fresh rosemary in this dish?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh rosemary for the best flavor.
How much salt and pepper should I use?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of salt and 3/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper.
What type of cheese gives the best flavor for this gratin?
Sharp white cheddar cheese is recommended for its rich and tangy flavor.
How should I chop the shallots?
The shallots should be finely chopped to ensure they blend well into the cream mixture.
What is the texture of the finished gratin?
The gratin has a velvety, creamy interior with a golden, bubbling top layer.
Can this dish be served at a dinner party?
Yes, its impressive presentation and comforting flavor make it an excellent choice for dinner parties.
How much prep time is involved for the potatoes?
You will need to peel and slice 4 lbs of potatoes into 1/4 inch rounds before beginning the assembly.
What type of cream is used for the base?
Whipping cream is used to create a luscious and velvety texture.
How much shallot is required?
You will need 3/4 cup of finely chopped shallots.
Is the dish covered with cheese during the entire baking process?
The cheese is added before baking, but it is covered with foil for the first hour and then exposed to brown for the final 45 minutes.
Should the potatoes overlap in the dish?
Yes, you should overlap the potato slices slightly to ensure even coverage across the baking dish.
What kind of black pepper is best?
The recipe recommends using ground black pepper to season the cream mixture.