Au gratin dishes have long been a popular choice in Indian cuisine, and for good reason. The combination of creamy, rich cheese and a crispy, golden brown crust is simply irresistible. While the traditional version of this dish is made with potatoes, there are many variations that incorporate other delicious ingredients. In this article, we will explore the basics of making an au gratin dish, as well as some creative and tasty Indian-inspired twists.
Main Ingredients: Red Potatoes, Onion, Butter, Flour, Dry Mustard, Milk
Who says beer can chicken has to be served with just a side of corn on the cob? Elevate your meal with these creamy and indulgent au gratin potatoes. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a rich and cheesy sauce, baked to perfection, and topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping. This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next beer can chicken feast.
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Potatoes Au Gratin
Main Ingredients: Butter, Heavy Cream, Salt, Ground Black Pepper, Russet
For a classic take on this indulgent side dish, look no further than potatoes au gratin. Thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a creamy sauce made with butter, garlic, and Gruyere cheese. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth dish that pairs perfectly with the smoky and flavorful beer can chicken.
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Perfectly Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Yellow Onion, Garlic, Butter, All Purpose
If you're looking for the ultimate comfort food to pair with your beer can chicken, look no further than these perfectly creamy au gratin potatoes. Made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of nutmeg, these potatoes are rich, indulgent, and the perfect side dish for any barbecue or summer gathering.
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Potatoes Au Gratin
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Butter, Potatoes, Salt, Whipping Cream, Aged
For a twist on the classic potatoes au gratin, try adding some crab meat to the mix. This seafood-inspired dish is made with jumbo lump crab meat, creamy Gruyere cheese, and a touch of Old Bay seasoning for a flavorful and unique take on this beloved side dish. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a meal that will impress your guests.
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Crab Au Gratin
Main Ingredients: Butter, Garlic, Sauce, White Pepper, Salt, Crabs, Green
If you're a fan of cheesy potatoes, then this crab au gratin is a must-try. Made with a creamy and cheesy sauce, jumbo lump crab meat, and topped with a crispy panko breadcrumb topping, this dish is full of flavor and the perfect accompaniment to your beer can chicken. It's also a great way to incorporate some seafood into your barbecue menu.
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Cheesy Potatoes Au Gratin
Main Ingredients: Grated Gruyere Cheese, Grated Parmesan Cheese, Heavy
No beer can chicken meal is complete without some cheesy potatoes au gratin on the side. This dish is made with layers of thinly sliced potatoes, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and topped with bubbly golden cheese. It's the perfect side dish to soak up all the delicious juices from your beer can chicken.
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Jumbo Lump Crab Au Gratin
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Medium Onion, Celery Rib, Green
For a decadent and luxurious side dish to pair with your beer can chicken, try this jumbo lump crab au gratin. Made with a rich and creamy sauce, chunks of jumbo lump crab meat, and topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping, this dish is sure to impress your guests and take your meal to the next level.
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Creamy Brussel Sprouts Au Gratin
Main Ingredients: Brussel Sprouts, Unsalted Butter, Gruyere Cheese, Heavy
For a healthier take on au gratin potatoes, try this creamy brussel sprouts au gratin. Thinly sliced brussel sprouts are baked in a creamy sauce made with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of Dijon mustard. It's a delicious and nutritious side dish that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken.
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Crab Meat au Gratin
Main Ingredients: Butter, Flour, Onions, Celery, Evaporated Milk, Egg
If you're a fan of seafood, then you'll love this crab meat au gratin. Made with a creamy sauce, chunks of crab meat, and topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping, this dish is full of flavor and the perfect accompaniment to your beer can chicken. It's also a great way to incorporate some protein into your meal.
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Broccoli Au Gratin
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, All Purpose Flour, Whole Milk, Salt
If you're looking for a way to sneak some vegetables into your beer can chicken meal, try this broccoli au gratin. The florets are baked in a creamy and cheesy sauce, making them irresistibly delicious. It's the perfect side dish to balance out the smoky flavors of the beer can chicken.
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Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti Squash, Butter, Small Yellow Onion, Red
For a low-carb alternative to traditional potatoes au gratin, try this spaghetti squash au gratin. The strands of squash are baked in a creamy sauce made with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of nutmeg. It's a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken.
For a twist on the classic beer can chicken, try this Indian butter chicken recipe. The tender and juicy chicken is marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and yogurt, then grilled to perfection. Serve it with some naan bread and a side of creamy au gratin potatoes for a fusion-style feast.
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Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Russet Potatoes, Onion, Salt, Pepper, Sauce, Shredded
If you can't get enough of creamy and cheesy potatoes, then this recipe is for you. These creamy au gratin potatoes are made with heavy cream, Gruyere cheese, and a touch of thyme for a delicious and indulgent side dish. They pair perfectly with the smoky and flavorful beer can chicken.
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Cauliflower Au Gratin
Main Ingredients: Cauliflower, Butter, Heavy Cream, Garlic, Sharp Cheddar
For a healthier take on this indulgent side dish, try making cauliflower au gratin. The florets are baked in a creamy sauce made with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of Dijon mustard. It's a delicious and nutritious option that pairs well with the rich flavors of beer can chicken.
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Easy Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Butter, Flour, Salt, Pepper, Milk, Shredded Cheddar
If you're short on time but still want to impress your guests with a delicious side dish, try this easy creamy au gratin potatoes recipe. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this dish comes together quickly and is full of flavor. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Butter, Onion, Garlic, Russet Potatoes, All Purpose
For the ultimate indulgent side dish, try these cheesy au gratin potatoes. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, then topped with even more cheese for a dish that is sure to please any cheese lover. It's the perfect accompaniment to your beer can chicken.
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Vegan Potatoes Au Gratin
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Olive Oil, Medium Onion, Fennel Bulb, Non
If you're following a vegan diet, you don't have to miss out on the deliciousness of au gratin potatoes. This vegan version is made with a creamy and cheesy sauce made from cashews, nutritional yeast, and Dijon mustard. It's a delicious and plant-based side dish that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken.
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Easy Sweet Potatoes Au Gratin
Main Ingredients: Nonstick Cooking Spray, Sweet Potatoes, Salt, Black
For a twist on the classic potatoes au gratin, try making it with sweet potatoes instead. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs well with the creamy and cheesy sauce, making for a unique and delicious side dish. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a meal that is both indulgent and nutritious.
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Individual Garlic Parmesan Potatoes Au Gratin
Main Ingredients: Butter, Yukon Gold Potatoes, Garlic Powder, Salt, Black
If you're hosting a dinner party or just want to impress your family, try making these individual garlic Parmesan potatoes au gratin. The potatoes are baked in individual ramekins with a creamy and garlicky sauce, then topped with a generous amount of Parmesan cheese. It's a fancy and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken.
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Zucchini and Squash Au Gratin
Main Ingredients: Butter, Zucchini, Squash, Shallots, Garlic, Heavy
For a lighter alternative to traditional potatoes au gratin, try making this zucchini and squash version. The thinly sliced vegetables are baked in a creamy and cheesy sauce, making for a delicious and healthy side dish. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
What is an Au Gratin Dish?
The Basics
An au gratin dish is a baked casserole that typically consists of layers of thinly sliced vegetables or meat, topped with a cheesy and creamy sauce, and finished off with a layer of breadcrumbs or grated cheese. The dish is then baked until the top is golden brown and crispy. The name "au gratin" comes from the French term "gratiné," which refers to the crispy crust that forms on top of the dish.
Indian-Inspired Twists
While potatoes are the most commonly used vegetable in au gratin dishes, there are many delicious alternatives that can add an Indian flair to this classic dish. One popular option is to use cauliflower, which adds a subtle nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch. Another tasty option is to use paneer, a type of Indian cottage cheese that is firm and perfect for baking. You can also add a touch of spice by incorporating some Indian spices, such as cumin, coriander, or turmeric, into the sauce.
Making an Au Gratin Dish
The Ingredients
To make a basic au gratin dish, you will need thinly sliced vegetables or meat, a creamy and cheesy sauce, and a topping. For an Indian-inspired version, you can use vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or eggplant, or protein options like paneer or chicken. For the sauce, you will need ingredients like milk, cream, cheese, and spices. And for the topping, breadcrumbs, grated cheese, or crushed nuts are all great options.
The Process
To make an au gratin dish, start by preheating your oven to 375°F. In a greased baking dish, layer the thinly sliced vegetables or meat. Then, in a saucepan, heat the sauce ingredients until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Pour the sauce over the vegetables or meat, making sure to cover all the layers. Top with your desired topping and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dish is heated through.
In Conclusion
Au gratin dishes are a delicious and versatile option in Indian cuisine. By adding some creative twists and incorporating Indian flavors, you can elevate this classic dish to a whole new level. So next time you're craving a cheesy and crispy dish, try making an Indian-inspired au gratin and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.