Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes

Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes are a delightful dish that combines layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes with rich gruyere and parmesan cheese, all infused with aromatic thyme and garlic. This recipe is perfect for holidays or casual weeknight dinners, offering a unique twist on traditional potato dishes. With their crispy edges and melting interior, these stacked potatoes are sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without any hassle.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of gruyere, parmesan, fresh thyme, and garlic creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for festive occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas, but also wonderful for everyday meals.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These stunning potato stacks will wow your family and friends, making them a memorable addition to any table.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or cheeses based on your preference.

Tools and Preparation

To make Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes, you’ll want to have the right tools on hand. Having the proper equipment not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances the final result.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Ideal for creating individual potato stacks that cook evenly while achieving that perfect crispy edge.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without any mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures even slicing of potatoes for consistent cooking results.

Ingredients

For the Cheesy Mixture

• 1 ½ cups gruyere cheese (thinly shredded)
• ⅔ cup parmesan cheese (thinly shredded)
• 1 Tablespoon fresh thyme (finely chopped, or 1 ¼ tsp dried thyme)
• 1 to 1 ¼ tsp coarse sea salt (halve for fine salt)
• 2-4 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Potato Layers

• 1 ½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (about 4-5, thinly sliced and unpeeled)
• 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

How to Make Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Optionally, lightly grease your muffin tins to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the gruyere cheese, parmesan cheese, fresh thyme, coarse sea salt, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Potatoes

In a large bowl, coat the thinly sliced potatoes with melted butter. Using your hands is a great way to ensure every slice is evenly coated.

Step 4: Layer in Muffin Tin

In each muffin cup of your tin, start by layering four potato slices followed by about half a teaspoon of the cheese mixture. Repeat this pattern until you have stacked three to four layers of potatoes. Finish with a layer of cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Cover the muffin tin with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Check that the potatoes are fork-tender before removing them from the oven. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out each stack and serve warm with additional thyme as desired.

How to Serve Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes

Serving Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes can elevate any meal. Their cheesy, crispy edges make them a delightful side to complement various dishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

As a Holiday Side

• Pair with Roasted Chicken: The rich flavors of the potatoes balance perfectly with the savory notes of roasted chicken.
• Serve with Beef Wellington: This classic dish enhances the festive spirit when served alongside these stacked potatoes.

With a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light, crisp garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy stacks.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing of a Caesar salad pairs well with the indulgent flavors of the potatoes.

For Weeknight Dinners

• Grilled Turkey Breast: These potatoes complement the lean protein of grilled turkey, making for a wholesome meal.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful veggie stir-fry adds nutrition and vibrancy to your plate alongside these cheesy stacks.

How to Perfect Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes

To achieve the best results with your Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes, follow these tips for perfecting this dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh thyme and quality cheese will elevate flavor. Opt for freshly shredded cheeses for better melting.
• Slice Potatoes Evenly: Uniform slices ensure even cooking, preventing any undercooked or overcooked pieces.
• Layer Carefully: Alternate layers of potatoes and cheese mixture properly. This helps achieve that desired melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bake time. Adjust as necessary based on how thickly you’ve layered your potatoes.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow the stacks to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps them set and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like rosemary or oregano for additional flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes

These Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes pair wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add color and crunch, balancing out the richness of the potato stacks.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter flavor complements the cheesy potatoes beautifully; roasting brings out their natural sweetness.
3. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A lighter alternative to traditional mashed potatoes that still delivers on flavor and creaminess.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad filled with vegetables brings freshness and texture to your meal.
5. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots provide a delightful contrast in taste, enhancing your dining experience.
6. Crispy Kale Chips: These add an exciting crunch and are a healthier alternative to traditional chips or fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes can be delightful, but some common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Not slicing potatoes evenly – If potato slices are uneven, they will cook at different rates. Use a mandoline for consistent thickness.
• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season each layer can lead to bland potatoes. Make sure you mix the cheese with thyme and salt thoroughly.
• Overcrowding the muffin tin – Too many potato slices in each cup can result in uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended layering for best results.
• Not preheating the oven – Baking in a cold oven can affect the texture. Always preheat your oven to ensure perfect browning.
• Removing from muffin tin too soon – Letting them sit for a few minutes before removal helps them hold their shape. Be patient!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes

• Place cooled stacks in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, cover, and heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes.

Can I use other cheeses in Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavors.

How do I know when the potatoes are done?

The stacks should be golden brown on top and fork-tender throughout. Adjust baking time based on thickness.

Can I make Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What is the best way to serve these potatoes?

These stacked potatoes make an excellent side dish for any meal and pair wonderfully with roasted meats or salads.

Final Thoughts

Gruyere and Thyme Stacked Potatoes are a delightful side dish that impresses guests while being easy enough for weeknight dinners. The layers of cheesy goodness combined with fresh thyme offer endless customization options—add your favorite herbs or spices! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the crispy edges paired with a soft, flavorful interior.