Ruth’s Chris Creamy Cheddar Potato Bake
Ruth’s Chris Creamy Cheddar Potato Bake is a delightful, comforting dish that brings the rich, creamy flavors of cheddar cheese and potatoes into one easy-to-make casserole. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any mealtime when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something special.
Why Make This Recipe
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm, cheesy potato bake, and this recipe is no exception. Combining layers of tender potatoes with a luscious cream sauce and melty cheddar creates a dish that’s both hearty and indulgent. It encapsulates the essence of comfort food, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or when you’re hosting friends and family. Plus, it’s straightforward enough for even beginner cooks to whip up, which means you can impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen!
How to Make Ruth’s Chris Creamy Cheddar Potato Bake
Making Ruth’s Chris Creamy Cheddar Potato Bake is a simple process that yields fantastic results. Below is a step-by-step guide to constructing this cheesy masterpiece.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and paprika; bring to a simmer while stirring occasionally.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the greased baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over them, making sure to distribute it evenly. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, the rest of the cream mixture, and the remaining cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for Success with Ruth’s Chris Creamy Cheddar Potato Bake
- Slice Evenly: To ensure even cooking, slice the potatoes as uniformly as possible. A mandoline slicer can help achieve this.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a depth of flavor that dried garlic simply can’t match, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Wait Before Serving: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes after baking allows the creamy layers to set and makes serving easier.
- Layer Properly: For the best texture, make sure to layer the potatoes and cream evenly. This will prevent any overcooking or drying out.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheese varieties for extra flavor; sharp cheddar or pepper jack can add a nice kick.
Flavor Variations for Ruth’s Chris Creamy Cheddar Potato Bake
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the cream mixture for a fragrant twist.
- Bacon Bits: Incorporate crispy bacon pieces between the layers for added crunch and flavor.
- Add Veggies: Include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to add nutrients and color to your dish.
- Spicy Version: Mix in some diced jalapeños or use spicy cheddar for a kick.
- Smoky Flavor: Stir in a bit of smoked paprika or cheddar to give the dish a subtle smokiness.
Serving Suggestions for Ruth’s Chris Creamy Cheddar Potato Bake
Ruth’s Chris Creamy Cheddar Potato Bake pairs wonderfully with various main dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Grilled Steaks: Serve alongside a juicy grilled steak for a comforting and decadent meal.
- Roasted Chicken: This creamy bake complements the flavors of roasted chicken beautifully.
- Salads: A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the potato bake.
- Green Beans: Steamed or roasted green beans provide a nice texture contrast and enhance the meal’s color.
- Baked Ham: The sweet and savory notes of baked ham work splendidly with the rich flavors of the casserole.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Creamy Cheddar Potato Bake
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the potato bake for up to 3 months. To do this, prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake according to the instructions but add an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————-|——–|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 32g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
FAQ About Ruth’s Chris Creamy Cheddar Potato Bake
Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese lends itself well to this dish, you can experiment with various cheese types. Gouda, Gruyère, or even a blend of cheeses can add unique flavors to the casserole.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance. Assemble the potato bake up to the point just before baking, then cover and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven, or adjust the baking time as necessary.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and sour cream. However, keep in mind that the resulting dish will be less creamy than with heavy cream.
How can I ensure the potatoes are cooked through?
Slicing the potatoes thinly and layering them with the cream mixture helps ensure they cook evenly. Additionally, covering the baking dish with foil during the first part of the cooking process retains moisture and promotes cooking throughout.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free because it does not include any flour or gluten-containing ingredients. Always ensure that all products you use, particularly cheese, are certified gluten-free if you’re serving anyone with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
Ruth’s Chris Creamy Cheddar Potato Bake offers a deliciously rich and creamy experience that you and your loved ones will surely enjoy. So why not gather your ingredients and make this delightful dish? Whether for a special occasion or a quiet family dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
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Ruth’s Chris Creamy Cheddar Potato Bake
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful casserole that combines rich cheddar cheese and tender potatoes, perfect for family gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, add garlic, and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and paprika; bring to a simmer.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the greased dish and pour half of the cream mixture over them.
- Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat with remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For best results, slice the potatoes evenly and allow the bake to sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
