Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin – A Luxurious Take on a Classic Side Dish
When it comes to indulgent, crowd-pleasing comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich, creamy perfection of Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin. Inspired by the iconic steakhouse favorite, this recipe delivers the same decadently cheesy layers and buttery flavor that have made it a staple alongside perfectly seared steaks. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, a holiday spread, or a dinner party that calls for something truly special, this gratin elevates humble potatoes into a dish worthy of applause.
The secret lies in the balance of cream, cheese, and technique—thinly sliced russet potatoes simmered and baked in a luscious garlic-infused sauce. Each bite is a blend of tender potato and rich, velvety cheese that melts beautifully into every layer. Let’s dive into this recipe that turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable side dish.
🧾 Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly butter a baking dish.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and milk, then stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil).
- Stir in 1 cup cheddar and ½ cup Parmesan until melted and smooth, forming a creamy sauce.
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the sauce over the top, spreading evenly.
- Layer the remaining potatoes, then pour over the rest of the sauce. Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheddar and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
🍽️ A Side Dish That Steals the Show
While most potato dishes play a supporting role, this one often takes center stage. The luxurious combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan creates a perfect harmony—bold, salty, and creamy all at once. The edges bubble and brown into a golden crust, while the interior remains silky and rich.
Each layer of thinly sliced russet potatoes absorbs the flavors of garlic, butter, and nutmeg, making every bite feel indulgent. This recipe perfectly captures the essence of Ruth’s Chris Steak House—classic, elegant, and always unforgettable.
Whether you serve it with prime rib, roast chicken, or grilled vegetables, this gratin is guaranteed to impress. For a little extra flair, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top just before serving—it adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness to balance the richness.
🥂 Perfect for Holidays and Special Occasions
Potatoes au gratin are an excellent choice for gatherings because they pair beautifully with so many main dishes. During the holidays, they complement ham, turkey, or beef tenderloin with ease. They can even be prepared a few hours in advance—just assemble and refrigerate, then bake right before serving.
This dish also holds up well for leftovers (if there are any!). Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, and it will taste just as creamy and comforting as when it first came out of the oven.
👩🍳 Chef’s Tips for Perfection
- Slice evenly: Use a mandoline for uniformly thin potato slices so they cook evenly.
- Avoid boiling: When heating the cream mixture, keep it at a gentle simmer to prevent curdling.
- Cheese variety: You can mix things up with Gruyère or Fontina for added depth and a gourmet twist.
- Crispy top tip: For an even more irresistible crust, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.
🌿 Final Thoughts
Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin is the kind of dish that defines comfort and elegance all at once. It’s the creamy, cheesy side that everyone reaches for seconds of—and one that feels right at home at any celebration. With its velvety sauce, buttery layers, and irresistible golden top, it’s no wonder this gratin has earned a place among the most beloved potato recipes of all time.
So, next time you’re looking to elevate your meal, skip the plain mashed potatoes and serve this show-stopping side instead. Your guests will thank you!
