17 Recipes That Elevate Simple Potatoes to Gourmet Status

Potatoes are like a blank canvas in the kitchen, just waiting for a little creativity to turn them into something extraordinary. Whether you’re frying, baking, or mashing, there’s no limit to the gourmet potential of this humble ingredient. These recipes prove that with the right techniques and flavors, simple spuds can shine as the star of any meal.

Aligot

Aligot is a French dish blending mashed potatoes with melted cheese, resulting in a smooth, elastic texture. To prepare, combine 2 pounds of peeled and boiled potatoes with 1 cup of cream and 2 tablespoons of butter, mashing until smooth. Incorporate 1 pound of grated Tomme cheese (or a suitable substitute like mozzarella) and 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring over low heat until the mixture becomes stretchy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This indulgent side pairs well with roasted meats and showcases the luxurious potential of humble potatoes.

Pommes Boulangère

Pommes Boulangère, translating to “baker’s potatoes,” is a classic French dish of thinly sliced potatoes and onions baked in stock until tender. Layer 2 pounds of thinly sliced potatoes and 1 large sliced onion in a buttered baking dish, seasoning each layer with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh rosemary. Pour 2 cups of chicken or vegetable stock over the layers. Dot the top with 2 tablespoons of butter and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden. This dish offers a refined take on scalloped potatoes, perfect for elegant dinners.

Hasselback Potatoes

Hasselback Potatoes are a Swedish creation featuring thinly sliced potatoes roasted to crispy perfection. Slice 4 medium-sized potatoes thinly, ensuring not to cut all the way through. Brush each potato with 2 tablespoons of melted butter mixed with 2 minced garlic cloves, allowing the butter to seep into the cuts. Season with salt and pepper, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 45 minutes, basting with additional butter halfway through. The result is a visually impressive and deliciously crispy potato dish that elevates any meal.

Potato Dauphinoise

Potato Dauphinoise is a rich French casserole of thinly sliced potatoes baked with cream and cheese. Layer 2 pounds of thinly sliced potatoes in a buttered dish, seasoning each layer with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh thyme. Pour over a mixture of 1 cup heavy cream and 1 cup milk, then sprinkle 1 cup of grated Gruyère cheese on top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbling. This decadent dish is a staple in French cuisine, showcasing the versatility of potatoes.

Truffle Mashed Potatoes

Truffle Mashed Potatoes add a luxurious twist to the classic mash with the earthy aroma of truffle oil. Boil 2 pounds of peeled potatoes until tender, then mash with 1/2 cup of warm heavy cream and 4 tablespoons of butter. Stir in 1 tablespoon of truffle oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped chives before serving. This side dish brings a gourmet flair to any meal, highlighting the transformative power of quality ingredients.

Patatas Bravas

Patatas Bravas are a popular Spanish tapas dish featuring crispy fried potatoes topped with a spicy tomato sauce. Cut 2 pounds of potatoes into bite-sized pieces and fry in 1 cup of olive oil until golden and crispy. For the sauce, sauté 1 minced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, a pinch of cayenne pepper, and 1 cup of tomato sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes, then pour over the fried potatoes. This dish offers a zesty and flavorful way to enjoy potatoes, perfect for sharing.

Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter

Potato Gnocchi are Italian dumplings made from potatoes, flour, and egg, served here with a simple sage-infused butter sauce. Combine 2 cups of riced or mashed potatoes with 1 1/2 cups of flour and 1 beaten egg to form a dough. Roll into ropes, cut into bite-sized pieces, and boil until they float. In a skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter with 8 fresh sage leaves until the butter is browned. Toss the cooked gnocchi in the sage butter and serve immediately. This dish exemplifies Italian simplicity and elegance, turning potatoes into delicate pillows of flavor.

Loaded Potato Skins

Loaded Potato Skins are a popular appetizer featuring crispy potato halves filled with cheese, bacon, and green onions. Bake 4 large potatoes until tender, then halve and scoop out most of the flesh. Brush the skins with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes until crisp. Fill each with a mixture of 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 4 slices of cooked, crumbled bacon, then bake until the cheese melts. Top with chopped green onions and a dollop of sour cream. This dish transforms simple potatoes into a crowd-pleasing gourmet snack.

Samosas

Samosas are a popular Indian snack featuring spiced potato filling encased in a crispy pastry. Prepare the filling by sautéing 1 diced onion in 2 tablespoons of oil, then add 2 cups of boiled, diced potatoes, 1 cup of peas, 1 teaspoon of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds, and salt to taste. Cook for 5 minutes, then let cool. Fill pastry dough with the mixture, fold into triangles, and deep-fry until golden brown. Serve with chutney for a flavorful appetizer that elevates the humble potato to gourmet status. Samosas offer a crispy and spicy treat perfect for entertaining.

Rösti

Rösti is a Swiss potato dish consisting of grated potatoes fried until golden and crispy. Start by grating 2 pounds of peeled potatoes and squeezing out excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel. Mix with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet, press the potatoes into a flat layer, and cook over medium heat until crispy on one side before flipping. This rustic yet elegant dish pairs wonderfully with eggs, smoked salmon, or sour cream.

Potato Croquettes

Potato Croquettes are crispy, golden snacks with a creamy mashed potato center. Mash 2 cups of boiled potatoes with 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan, 1 egg yolk, and salt to taste. Shape into logs, roll in flour, dip in beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs. Deep-fry in 2 cups of oil until golden and crispy. These delicate bites offer a refined take on comfort food, making them a favorite for parties or gourmet sides.

Pommes Anna

Pommes Anna is a French dish of thinly layered potatoes baked with butter for a crispy, golden finish. Slice 2 pounds of potatoes thinly, preferably with a mandoline, and toss with 1/2 cup of melted butter, salt, and pepper. Arrange the slices in overlapping layers in a buttered skillet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 45 minutes, pressing down occasionally to compact the layers. This elegant dish transforms simple ingredients into a masterpiece of texture and flavor.

Crispy Parmesan Potato Stacks

Crispy Parmesan Potato Stacks are an impressive yet easy-to-make side dish. Thinly slice 4 medium potatoes and toss with 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt to taste. Layer the slices in muffin tins and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 50 minutes, until crispy and golden. These stacks are not only visually stunning but also bursting with savory flavors. They make an excellent addition to gourmet dinners or festive gatherings.

Potato Gratin with Leeks and Gruyère

Potato Gratin with Leeks and Gruyère elevates classic gratin with the delicate flavor of leeks. Layer 2 pounds of thinly sliced potatoes with 1 cup of sautéed leeks in a buttered baking dish. Pour over 1 cup of cream and sprinkle with 1 cup of grated Gruyère cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour, until golden and bubbling. This decadent side dish perfectly balances creaminess and earthy potato flavors.

Potatoes Lyonnaise

Potatoes Lyonnaise is a French dish that combines crispy potatoes with caramelized onions. Slice 2 pounds of potatoes and 2 onions thinly. Sauté the onions in 2 tablespoons of butter until caramelized, remove from the skillet, and set aside. Fry the potato slices in 2 tablespoons of butter until golden, then toss with the onions and season with salt and pepper. This dish blends simplicity and sophistication, making it a timeless gourmet favorite.

Twice-Baked Potatoes

Twice-Baked Potatoes are a comforting yet elevated way to enjoy spuds. Bake 4 large potatoes, scoop out the centers, and mix with 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, 2 tablespoons butter, and salt to taste. Refill the potato shells, top with more cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden. The creamy filling and crispy top create a perfect balance of textures. These versatile potatoes can be dressed up with herbs, bacon, or even caviar for a gourmet flair.

Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce

Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce brings a sweet and savory combination to the table. Mix 2 cups of mashed sweet potatoes with 1 1/2 cups of flour and 1 egg to form a dough. Shape into gnocchi and boil until they float. In a skillet, brown 1/4 cup of butter with 4 fresh sage leaves, then toss the gnocchi in the sauce. This dish marries the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of butter, creating a sophisticated and satisfying meal.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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