Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise Potatoes Recipe

If you’re looking for a decadent, creamy, and utterly comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with almost any main course, Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise Potatoes are a must-try. This recipe promises a rich blend of flavors with thinly sliced potatoes enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection. Whether it’s for a holiday dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is sure to impress.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise Potatoes

Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise Potatoes is a modern take on the classic French dish, Gratin Dauphinois. It features thin slices of potatoes layered with a decadent mixture of cream, garlic, and cheese, then baked until the top is golden brown and crispy. The result is a comforting, rich, and flavorful side dish that combines the creaminess of the sauce with the tender texture of the potatoes. Jamie’s version adds a little extra flair with fresh ingredients and a careful balance of flavors that elevate this traditional dish to new heights. With every bite, you’ll experience a melt-in-your-mouth sensation, with layers of savory goodness.

Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise Potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds (900g) of potatoes (waxy varieties like Yukon Gold work best)
• 2 cloves of garlic (crushed and minced)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish and adding to the sauce)
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (Gruyère or cheddar are excellent choices for a rich flavor)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh thyme (optional, but it adds a wonderful herbal aroma)
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, a subtle spice to enhance the depth of flavor)

Equipment Needed

To make this dish, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• A sharp knife or mandoline slicer (for evenly slicing the potatoes)
• A baking dish (a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) dish is ideal)
• A saucepan (for heating the cream, milk, and seasoning)
• A spatula or whisk (to stir the sauce and ensure it’s smooth)
• A grater (for shredding cheese)
• A brush (to grease the baking dish, optional but makes the process smoother)
• Aluminum foil (optional for covering the dish during baking, to prevent over-browning)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise Potatoes?

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter your baking dish.
2. Prepare the potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes to about 1/8-inch thickness. A mandoline slicer will give you uniform slices, but a sharp knife works as well.
3. Make the cream sauce: In a saucepan, combine the cream, milk, crushed garlic, a pinch of salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Heat it gently over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent it from boiling over.
4. Layer the potatoes: Arrange the sliced potatoes in the baking dish, slightly overlapping each layer. Pour a little of the cream mixture over each layer. Repeat the layering process until you’ve used all the potatoes and cream.
5. Add cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheese on top of the potatoes, ensuring an even layer.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent the top from burning) and bake for 40-45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
7. Finishing touches: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the dish to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce settle and gives the dish time to firm up a bit.

Expert Tips

• Type of potatoes: Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Maris Piper for the best texture. Starchy potatoes (like Russets) might become too mushy and lose their structure during baking.
• Slicing potatoes: Make sure the potato slices are evenly cut. If you have a mandoline slicer, it will help achieve a consistent thickness, ensuring that they cook uniformly.
• Cheese choice: While Gruyère is a classic, a mixture of Gruyère and sharp cheddar will give your dauphinoise potatoes a more complex flavor profile. You can also sprinkle some Parmesan on top for an extra crispy crust.
• Make it ahead: This dish can be assembled the night before and stored in the fridge, which allows the flavors to meld together. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme adds a wonderful fragrance to the dish, but rosemary or bay leaves can be used for a different aromatic touch.
• Crispy top: If you like an extra crispy crust, increase the baking time slightly or finish it off under the broiler for a minute or two.

Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food-creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked to golden perfection. This dish elevates any meal, making it perfect for family dinners, festive occasions, or a cozy night in.

With the right combination of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a stunning side dish that’s sure to steal the show at your next gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is accessible and rewarding, leaving you with a rich, flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite main course and prepare for rave reviews!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise Potatoes

Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise potatoes are a rich and creamy dish that’s perfect for any special occasion or comforting dinner. While his original recipe is already delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize and add a twist. Here are a few easy variations to consider:

1. Cheese Variations: The classic dauphinoise calls for Gruyère, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses for different flavors. A sharp cheddar or a creamy brie will change the texture and flavor profile, adding more depth to the dish. You could also try a mix of cheeses for a more complex taste, such as Parmesan for a salty edge combined with mozzarella for extra creaminess.
2. Herb Infusion: Add fresh or dried herbs to elevate the aroma and flavor. Thyme and rosemary pair beautifully with potatoes, lending an earthy, fragrant note to the dish. For a more vibrant variation, you could infuse garlic with basil or oregano, or even try tarragon for a slightly aniseed flavor.
3. Add Vegetables: For a healthier twist or simply to add more variety, you can incorporate vegetables into the dish. Thinly sliced leeks, spinach, or even parsnips can complement the richness of the potatoes. You could also add roasted garlic or onions to bring more depth to the flavors.
4. Crispy Topping: While dauphinoise potatoes traditionally have a soft and creamy top, you can add a crispy finish by sprinkling breadcrumbs over the top of the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking. The breadcrumbs can be mixed with melted butter, grated cheese, and some herbs to create a crunchy, golden crust.
5. Bacon or Ham: Adding bits of crispy bacon or smoked ham to the layers of potatoes can bring a savory, smoky depth to the dish. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a meatier version of dauphinoise potatoes that still respects the dish’s creamy essence.
6. Vegetarian Options: If you’re going for a vegetarian version, you could substitute the cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free take. Pair it with a nut-based cheese to maintain the rich creaminess, or opt for an unsweetened almond milk with nutritional yeast for a savory vegan twist.
7. Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or even a finely chopped chili into the cream mixture. This will add a subtle kick that balances the creaminess without overwhelming the dish.

These variations allow you to make Jamie Oliver’s dauphinoise potatoes your own, whether you want to add some extra flavor, change the texture, or adjust the recipe to suit dietary preferences.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Dauphinoise potatoes, like many creamy dishes, store well if done properly, but care must be taken to preserve the texture and flavor. Follow these best practices to ensure your leftovers stay as delicious as the day they were made:

1. Cool the Dish Quickly: After the dauphinoise potatoes have finished cooking, allow them to cool at room temperature for no more than 2 hours. You want to avoid the growth of bacteria, so refrigerating while still warm is not advisable.
2. Store in an Airtight Container: Once the dish is cooled, transfer it into an airtight container. This will help maintain the moisture in the dish and prevent it from drying out. If you have a large batch, it’s helpful to store the leftovers in smaller portions so they can cool and reheat more evenly.
3. Refrigeration: Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The creamy sauce and potatoes will retain their flavor and texture for a reasonable time, although they may soften slightly.
4. Freezing for Longer Storage: If you have leftover dauphinoise potatoes that you won’t eat within a few days, freezing is a great option. Be sure to wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Dauphinoise potatoes can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. When you’re ready to eat them again, defrost them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
5. Reheating: To reheat dauphinoise potatoes, it’s best to do so slowly in the oven to ensure the potatoes heat evenly and the creamy sauce doesn’t separate. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from burning, and heat for 20-30 minutes, or until fully heated through. You can uncover the foil during the last 5 minutes to allow the top to crisp up again. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quicker option.

By following these best practices, your dauphinoise potatoes will retain their flavor and creamy texture, even after being stored and reheated.

What Goes Well With Dauphinoise Potatoes?

Dauphinoise potatoes are a rich and indulgent side dish, so pairing them with the right main course is key to achieving a balanced meal. Here are some options that complement the creamy potatoes beautifully:

1. Roast Meats: Dauphinoise potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, especially rich, flavorful cuts like beef, lamb, and pork. A classic roast beef with a rich gravy or a tender roast leg of lamb pairs wonderfully with the creamy potatoes. The richness of the meat is balanced by the smooth, buttery texture of the potatoes.
2. Grilled or Pan-Seared Steak: If you’re in the mood for steak, dauphinoise potatoes make an excellent side to any cut of beef, such as a rib-eye or filet mignon. The creamy potatoes are the perfect counterpoint to the crispy sear on a steak, and the flavor combination is simply divine.
3. Roast Chicken: A simple roast chicken, whether it’s seasoned with rosemary and garlic or a lemony herb blend, is a classic pairing for dauphinoise potatoes. The savory flavors of the chicken and the richness of the potatoes create a comforting, satisfying meal.
4. Vegetarian Dishes: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, dauphinoise potatoes go wonderfully with roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and parsnips. You could also pair them with a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the potatoes.
5. Fish and Seafood: While not a traditional pairing, dauphinoise potatoes can work beautifully with fish dishes, particularly rich fish like salmon or a hearty white fish like cod. The creaminess of the potatoes complements the delicate flakiness of the fish, and a squeeze of lemon can help balance the richness.
6. Sauteed Greens: Serve your dauphinoise potatoes with some sautéed spinach, kale, or Swiss chard for a pop of color and extra nutrition. The slight bitterness of the greens contrasts the richness of the potatoes, offering a perfect balance of flavors.
7. Sauces: If you’re serving meat with dauphinoise potatoes, consider pairing it with a flavorful sauce. Gravy, béchamel, or a red wine reduction can enhance both the main dish and the potatoes, adding complexity and depth to the meal.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s dauphinoise potatoes are a comforting and indulgent dish that can be easily customized to suit various tastes. From cheese variations to adding crispy toppings or experimenting with additional vegetables and herbs, there are countless ways to make this recipe your own.

When it comes to storing leftovers, following proper techniques will ensure that your creamy potatoes retain their flavor and texture. Finally, dauphinoise potatoes pair perfectly with a wide variety of dishes, from rich roasted meats to fresh vegetables, making them a versatile and essential side for any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a cozy dinner for yourself, dauphinoise potatoes will never disappoint.

FAQs

What Are Dauphinoise Potatoes?

Dauphinoise potatoes are a French dish made with thinly sliced potatoes that are baked in a creamy sauce, usually consisting of milk, cream, garlic, and cheese. The dish is named after the Dauphiné region in southeastern France.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Potato For Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise Potatoes Recipe?

Jamie Oliver recommends using starchy potatoes such as Maris Piper or King Edward, which are ideal for creating a creamy texture. However, other waxy potatoes may work but won’t yield the same creamy results.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise Potatoes Recipe Vegetarian?

To make the recipe vegetarian, simply replace the butter and cream with plant-based alternatives, such as dairy-free butter and plant-based cream. Ensure any cheese used is vegetarian-friendly.

Can I Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise Potatoes In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare dauphinoise potatoes ahead of time. Assemble the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before cooking, and bake as instructed.

What Is The Best Way To Layer The Potatoes In The Dish?

Layer the thinly sliced potatoes in a slightly overlapping pattern, ensuring even coverage. This helps the cream and cheese to infuse every layer, creating a smooth and creamy texture.

Do I Need To Peel The Potatoes For Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise Potatoes Recipe?

Yes, Jamie Oliver recommends peeling the potatoes before slicing them for dauphinoise potatoes. This allows the creamy sauce to coat the potato slices evenly.

Can I Make Dauphinoise Potatoes Without Cheese?

While cheese adds a rich flavor and creamy texture, you can omit it if desired, though the result will lack the traditional cheesy crust. You can use a mixture of cream and garlic for flavor instead.

How Do I Avoid The Dauphinoise Potatoes From Becoming Too Watery?

To avoid watery dauphinoise potatoes, ensure that the cream is thickened properly before pouring it over the potatoes. You can also consider parboiling the potatoes briefly before baking them to reduce excess moisture.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Dauphinoise Potatoes?

Yes, dauphinoise potatoes can be frozen. To freeze, prepare the dish as instructed, then allow it to cool completely.

Once cooled, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at a lower temperature for longer.

How Do I Achieve A Crispy Top On My Dauphinoise Potatoes?

For a crispy top, you can sprinkle grated cheese or breadcrumbs on the surface during the final 10 minutes of baking. Increase the oven temperature slightly to brown the top without burning the dish.