Are you craving a comforting and indulgent side dish that will elevate any meal? Look no further than these Potatoes Au Gratin Foil Packets! This delightful recipe takes the traditional potatoes au gratin to a whole new level by infusing them with rich flavors and encasing them in convenient foil packets for easy cooking. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a backyard barbecue, or a camping trip, these foil packets are guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create these heavenly potatoes au gratin foil packets!
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds thinly sliced potatoes
- 4 ounces grated gruyere cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 chopped shallots
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Foil Packets:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Tear off 4 large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each about 12 inches long. Place them on a flat surface.
- Divide the thinly sliced potatoes evenly among the foil sheets, placing them in the center.
2. Add the Flavor:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, grated gruyere cheese, chopped shallots, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the sliced potatoes, dividing it evenly among the foil packets.
3. Seal the Packets:
- Carefully fold the foil over the potatoes to create sealed packets, ensuring that the edges are tightly sealed to prevent any leakage during cooking.
4. Bake:
- Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and transfer them to the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
5. Serve:
- Carefully open the foil packets, being mindful of the hot steam that will escape. Transfer the potatoes au gratin to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with additional chopped herbs, if desired, and serve hot.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Cheddar, fontina, or Swiss cheese would all work well in this recipe.
- Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have dried thyme on hand, you can substitute it with other dried herbs such as rosemary, oregano, or basil.
- Adding Protein: For an extra protein boost, consider adding cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken to the foil packets before baking.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Low-Carb Option: To make a low-carb version of this dish, simply reduce the amount of potatoes and increase the proportion of cheese and heavy cream. You can also substitute cauliflower florets for some or all of the potatoes.
- Keto-Friendly: This recipe is already keto-friendly, as it is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in fat. Be sure to use full-fat dairy products to keep it keto-compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I prepare these foil packets in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the foil packets ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to cook, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary.
Q: Can I grill these foil packets instead of baking them? A: Absolutely! These foil packets can be cooked on a grill over medium heat for a delicious smoky flavor. Just be sure to flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover potatoes au gratin foil packets for future enjoyment. Simply wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
With their creamy texture, savory cheese, and aromatic herbs, these Potatoes Au Gratin Foil Packets are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or enjoying them as a main course, they’re guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates. So fire up your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with these delectable foil packets!
