Ruth’s Chris Four-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
Ruth’s Chris Four-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes are a deliciously rich and comforting dish that combines the creamy goodness of cheese with tender, thinly sliced potatoes. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, these scalloped potatoes are sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not just about creating a side dish; it’s about infusing love and warmth into your meals. The combination of four different cheeses adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. Scalloped potatoes are versatile enough to pair with a variety of proteins, making them an ideal side for everything from grilled meats to baked fish. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to impress your guests with a homemade dish that feels gourmet yet is surprisingly easy to prepare.
How to Make Ruth’s Chris Four-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
Cooking up delicious Ruth’s Chris Four-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes is easy! Follow this step-by-step guide to whip up a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 kinds of cheese (like Gruyère, Cheddar, Parmesan, and cream cheese)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream, then stir in the cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and add the remaining potatoes in a second layer.
- Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the top layer of potatoes.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Pro Tips for Success with Ruth’s Chris Four-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
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Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your dish relies heavily on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for good-quality cheeses and fresh russet potatoes for the best results.
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Thinly Slice the Potatoes: For even cooking, make sure your potato slices are thin and uniform. A mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent thickness.
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Don’t Rush the Baking: Allowing the scalloped potatoes to bake covered first helps cook through properly. The final uncovered baking gives that beautiful golden crust.
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Let It Rest: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
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Experiment with Cheeses: While Gruyère, Cheddar, Parmesan, and cream cheese create a wonderful combination, feel free to try other cheeses like Fontina or Gouda for different flavor profiles.
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Make it Ahead: Prepare the dish beforehand and bake it just before serving. This makes entertaining stress-free.
Flavor Variations for Ruth’s Chris Four-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
If you want to switch things up with your Four-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes, consider these delicious flavor variations:
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Add Some Heat: Incorporate a bit of diced jalapeño or crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese sauce for a spicy twist.
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Herb Infusion: Chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be mixed into the cheese sauce or sprinkled between layers for added flavor.
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Vegetable Boost: Layer in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for an earthy addition that complements the potatoes and cheese.
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Smoky Flavor: Add a little smoked cheese, like smoked Gouda, in with your cheese blend for a delightful depth of flavor.
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Nutty Brown Butter: Use nutty brown butter in place of regular butter to sauté the garlic for a richer taste that will elevate the entire dish.
Serving Suggestions for Ruth’s Chris Four-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
Ruth’s Chris Four-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes pair beautifully with various main courses. Here are some ideas for serving:
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Beef: Serve alongside a juicy steak or tender prime rib for a classic steakhouse experience.
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Poultry: These scalloped potatoes go wonderfully with roasted or grilled chicken, enhancing it with rich, creamy flavors.
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Seafood: They also complement lighter proteins like salmon or baked white fish, creating a balanced meal.
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For Vegetarian Options: Pair with a hearty green salad and crusty bread for a fulfilling vegetarian meal.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Four-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
To store any leftovers, allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
If you’d like to freeze the dish, be sure to do this before baking. Assemble the layers in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as per the recipe instructions, adding extra time if needed since it’ll be cold.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————–|————-|
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates| 34g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 540mg |
FAQ About Ruth’s Chris Four-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes give a fluffy texture, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also be used. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish and leave it in the fridge for one to two days before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be a substitute for heavy cream. Keep in mind that the richness may be slightly less, but it will still yield great results.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is inherently gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat products. Just ensure the cheese you choose is gluten-free, as some processed cheeses may contain additives.
Can I add meat to this dish?
Certainly! Adding cooked bacon or ham bits can introduce a delicious savory element to the dish. Just sprinkle them between the potato layers before pouring the cheese sauce.
Final Thoughts
Ruth’s Chris Four-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes is a dish that brings comfort, warmth, and a touch of elegance to the table. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners. Not only is this recipe easy to follow, but the end result will make you feel like a culinary superstar in your kitchen. Give it a try, and watch as your loved ones gather around for seconds (or thirds) of this delightful dish!
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Ruth’s Chris Four-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and comforting dish combining creamy cheese with tender, thinly sliced potatoes, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 kinds of cheese (like Gruyère, Cheddar, Parmesan, and cream cheese)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream, then stir in the cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and add the remaining potatoes in a second layer.
- Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the top layer of potatoes.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Use quality ingredients and ensure potatoes are thinly sliced for even cooking. Allow the dish to rest before serving to help the layers set.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
