Company Potatoes: A Culinary Masterpiece to Impress Your Guests
Company potatoes are the unsung hero of elegant side dishes. They’re creamy, decadent, and visually stunning – perfect for wowing guests at a dinner party or adding a touch of sophistication to a special family meal. This isn’t your average mashed potato recipe. We’re talking about layered potatoes, infused with garlic, herbs, and rich cream, then baked to golden perfection. Prepare to elevate your potato game!
Why Are They Called “Company Potatoes”?
The name hints at their purpose: to impress. They’re the kind of dish you bring out when you want to show off your culinary skills. They’re more elaborate than everyday mashed potatoes, requiring a bit more effort but delivering a significantly more impressive result. Think of them as the little black dress of potato side dishes – always elegant and appropriate.
The Secret to Perfect Company Potatoes: Ingredients Matter
While the method is important, the quality of your ingredients is paramount. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why:
* **Potatoes:** Russet potatoes are ideal. Their high starch content creates a fluffy, creamy texture when cooked. Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used, offering a slightly denser, buttery flavor. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they won’t break down properly and create the desired creaminess.
* **Heavy Cream:** This is non-negotiable. Heavy cream is what gives company potatoes their signature richness and luxurious texture. Don’t try to substitute with milk or half-and-half; you’ll sacrifice the desired creaminess.
* **Butter:** Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. It adds flavor and richness, helping to create a beautiful golden crust on top.
* **Garlic:** Fresh garlic is essential. It infuses the potatoes with a subtle, aromatic flavor that complements the richness of the cream. Mince it finely to ensure even distribution.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Thyme and rosemary are classic choices, adding a fragrant, earthy note. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like chives, parsley, or sage. Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
* **Gruyere Cheese (Optional):** This adds a nutty, slightly sharp flavor and creates a beautiful golden crust. It elevates the dish even further, making it truly special. You can substitute with other cheeses like Swiss, Parmesan, or even a sharp cheddar.
* **Salt and Pepper:** Season generously! Potatoes need a good amount of salt to bring out their flavor.
Company Potatoes Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, despite its elegant appearance. The key is to take your time and layer the ingredients carefully.
**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 25 minutes
**Cook time:** 50-60 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 3 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
* 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
* 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese (optional)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
**Equipment:**
* Mandoline or sharp knife
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Large bowl
* Whisk
**Instructions:**
**1. Prepare the Potatoes:**
* Peel the potatoes thoroughly. Ensure there are no eyes or blemishes left.
* The key to perfectly cooked company potatoes lies in the uniformity of the slices. Use a mandoline slicer for consistent 1/8-inch thick slices. If you don’t have a mandoline, use a very sharp knife and aim for even slices. The thinner the slices, the faster they’ll cook and the more evenly the flavors will distribute. If the slices are too thick, the potatoes may not cook through properly.
* Place the potato slices in a large bowl filled with cold water. This will help to remove excess starch and prevent them from browning.
**2. Prepare the Cream Mixture:**
* In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, melted butter, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the salt, as potatoes tend to absorb a lot of it. The cream mixture should be flavorful and aromatic.
* Taste and adjust seasonings. This is your chance to fine-tune the flavor profile before the potatoes are baked. A little extra garlic or a pinch more thyme can make a big difference.
**3. Layer the Potatoes:**
* Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking and make cleanup easier.
* Drain the potato slices well and pat them dry with paper towels. Excess moisture will prevent them from browning properly. It is very important that the baking dish is very well greased.
* Begin layering the potato slices in the prepared baking dish, overlapping each slice slightly. Create a single layer that covers the entire bottom of the dish. Make sure there are no gaps between the slices.
* Drizzle about 1/4 of the cream mixture evenly over the first layer of potatoes. You want to ensure that each potato slice is moistened by the cream mixture, but not swimming in it.
* Repeat the layering process: another layer of potato slices, followed by another drizzle of cream mixture. Continue until all the potatoes and cream mixture are used, ending with a layer of potatoes.
* If using Gruyere cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top layer of potatoes. The cheese will melt and create a beautiful golden crust during baking. If you are using parmesan, you may consider grating more on it at the end of the baking process to refresh its taste.
**4. Bake the Potatoes:**
* Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help the potatoes cook evenly and prevent the top from browning too quickly. Ensure there are no gaps around the edge of the baking dish that would allow steam to escape.
* Bake for 45 minutes. The foil will trap the steam and help the potatoes to soften. Using a baking dish with a tight-fitting lid is even better.
* Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown. The potatoes are done when they are easily pierced with a fork and the top is nicely browned. Keep a close eye on them during this final stage to prevent burning.
* If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil. If the potatoes are not browning enough, you can increase the oven temperature slightly for the last few minutes of baking.
**5. Rest and Serve:**
* Let the potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the cream to thicken and the flavors to meld together. Resting also makes it easier to slice and serve the potatoes.
* Cut into squares and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Tips for Success
* **Use a Mandoline:** A mandoline slicer is your best friend for this recipe. It ensures perfectly even slices, which are crucial for even cooking.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Dish:** If your baking dish is too small, the potatoes will steam instead of bake properly. Use a 9×13 inch dish or divide the potatoes between two smaller dishes.
* **Adjust Baking Time as Needed:** Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on the potatoes and adjust the baking time accordingly. They’re done when they’re tender and golden brown.
* **Make Ahead:** Company potatoes can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
* **Spice It Up:** For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream mixture.
* **Add Other Vegetables:** Thinly sliced onions or leeks can be layered with the potatoes for added flavor.
Variations on Company Potatoes
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Here are a few ideas:
* **Sweet Potato Company Potatoes:** Substitute sweet potatoes for the russet potatoes for a sweeter, more colorful dish. Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
* **Scalloped Potatoes with Ham:** Add diced ham between the layers of potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
* **Mushroom Company Potatoes:** Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic and herbs, then layer them with the potatoes.
* **Cheesy Company Potatoes:** Use a combination of different cheeses, such as Gruyere, cheddar, and Parmesan.
* **Vegan Company Potatoes:** Substitute the heavy cream with cashew cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Use vegan butter and omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Company potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are a few suggestions:
* **Roasted Chicken or Turkey:** The creamy potatoes complement the savory flavor of roasted poultry.
* **Beef Tenderloin or Steak:** Company potatoes are a luxurious accompaniment to a juicy steak.
* **Pork Loin or Chops:** The richness of the potatoes balances the leaner flavor of pork.
* **Fish or Seafood:** For a lighter meal, serve company potatoes with grilled salmon or shrimp.
* **Vegetarian Entrees:** Pair with a hearty vegetarian dish like lentil loaf or stuffed bell peppers.
Company Potatoes: A Recipe for Success
Company potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re a statement. They show that you care about the details and that you’re willing to put in the extra effort to create something truly special. So, the next time you’re looking to impress, give this recipe a try. Your guests will thank you for it!
Enjoy your journey into the world of elevated potato dishes! This recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire for years to come. Bon appétit!