Au Gratin Potatoes
An unusual cooking method speeds along the preparation of this beloved potato classic, while flavored croutons and Mexican cheese blend update the taste.
Prep Time:
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup half-and-half
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup ranch-flavored croutons, crushed, divided
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup finely shredded Mexican cheese blend
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease a 11/2-quart baking dish.
Combine half-and-half, milk, salt and garlic powder in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low.
Add potatoes to half-and-half mixture. Cook, covered, until potatoes are tender, about 12 minutes.
Remove potatoes from heat. Add
one-fourth of the croutons and the black pepper. Spoon into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese and remaining croutons.
Bake until cheese is melted, about 3 to 5 minutes. Serve immediately.
Secret Tip
Use a high-quality, heavy-bottomed pan to ensure that the half-and-half and milk don't scorch as they boil. If your pan is thin, consider using a cast-iron skillet and adding 1/2 cup more milk, as it evaporates more quickly from a skillet.
