If you’ve ever prepared a delightful batch of au gratin potatoes, you know that finding the perfect side dishes can elevate the dining experience to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, the right accompaniments can turn your dish into a culinary masterpiece. In this article, we’ll explore 15 perfect side dishes that not only complement the rich flavors of au gratin potatoes but also add a diverse and satisfying touch to your meal.
Table of Contents
What To Serve With Au Gratin Potatoes?
1. Mushroom Stroganoff
Creamy and savory, mushroom stroganoff is a delightful pairing with au gratin potatoes. The earthy tones of the mushrooms enhance the overall taste, creating a comforting and indulgent combination.
- Textural Harmony: Mushroom stroganoff provides a pleasing textural contrast to the creamy consistency of au gratin potatoes. The velvety smoothness of the stroganoff sauce complements the rich and cheesy potatoes, creating a well-balanced mouthfeel that enhances the overall dining experience.
- Flavor Fusion: The earthy tones of the mushrooms in stroganoff contribute a depth of flavor that harmonizes with the cheesy goodness of au gratin potatoes. The umami-rich mushrooms add a savory complexity, elevating the taste profile and creating a more indulgent combination that appeals to the palate.
- Comforting Indulgence: Beyond the technical aspects, the pairing of mushroom stroganoff with au gratin potatoes offers a sense of comfort and indulgence. The familiar and cozy flavors of mushrooms blend seamlessly with the hearty potatoes, providing a comforting sensation that makes the meal not just a culinary delight but a source of satisfaction and enjoyment.
Mushroom stroganoff stands out as a perfect side dish for au gratin potatoes, not only due to its textural and flavor harmony but also for the comforting indulgence it adds to the overall dining experience.
Do You Know What are Substitutes For Mushrooms?
2. Garlic Green Beans
For a fresh and vibrant contrast, garlic green beans are an excellent choice. The crisp texture and bold garlic flavor cut through the richness of the cheesy potatoes, providing a balanced and satisfying bite.
- Textural Delight: The crispness of the garlic green beans offers a delightful textural contrast to the creamy au gratin potatoes. This interplay between the crunchy beans and the velvety potatoes creates a mouthwatering sensation that keeps each bite interesting.
- Flavorful Balance: The boldness of the garlic in the green beans serves as a flavor enhancer that balances the richness of the cheesy potatoes. The garlicky kick adds a savory dimension, preventing the overall dish from becoming too heavy and imparting a satisfying depth to the combination.
- Visual Appeal: Beyond taste and texture, the vibrant green color of the beans adds visual appeal to the plate. The visual contrast enhances the overall dining experience, making the meal not only delicious but also aesthetically pleasing.
Garlic green beans emerge as an ideal companion to au gratin potatoes, providing a refreshing and well-balanced addition that excites the senses with its textural delight, flavorful balance, and visual appeal.
3. Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp
If you’re looking to add a touch of seafood to your meal, grilled chili lime shrimp is the way to go. The zesty lime and spicy chili complement the creamy potatoes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Seafood Elegance: Grilled chili lime shrimp introduces an element of seafood elegance to the table. The light and succulent shrimp, infused with the tanginess of lime and a hint of spice, adds a layer of sophistication that enhances the overall dining experience.
- Zesty Contrast: The zesty lime in the shrimp provides a refreshing and citrusy contrast to the richness of the au gratin potatoes. This burst of citrus flavor not only brightens the palate but also acts as a palate cleanser, ensuring each bite remains vibrant and satisfying.
- Spicy Kick: The spicy chili in the shrimp brings a subtle heat that plays well with the creaminess of the potatoes. This spicy kick adds a dimension of excitement to the dish, creating a flavor profile that is both comforting and adventurous.
Grilled chili lime shrimp emerges as a delightful choice to accompany au gratin potatoes, offering seafood elegance, zesty contrast, and a spicy kick that elevates the overall flavor experience.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
For those who appreciate a bit of crunchiness, roasted Brussels sprouts are a fantastic option. The caramelized edges and nutty undertones enhance the overall taste profile, making them an ideal side for au gratin potatoes.
- Textural Delight: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a satisfying crunch to the ensemble. The caramelization process creates a crisp exterior, adding a textural delight that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy au gratin potatoes, making each bite a sensory experience.
- Caramelized Goodness: The caramelized edges of the Brussels sprouts contribute a touch of sweetness that plays harmoniously with the savory notes of the potatoes. This caramelized goodness adds depth and complexity to the overall taste, making the combination more intriguing and enjoyable.
- Nutty Undertones: The nutty undertones of the roasted Brussels sprouts introduce an earthy element that complements the cheesy potatoes. This subtle nuttiness enhances the overall flavor profile, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dish for those seeking a balance of textures and tastes.
Roasted Brussels sprouts stand out as an excellent choice for those who crave crunchiness, providing textural delight, caramelized goodness, and nutty undertones that enhance the overall taste of au gratin potatoes.
5. Chicken Wings
A classic favorite, chicken wings bring a hearty and flavorful element to the table. Whether you prefer them spicy or savory, the combination of crispy wings and cheesy potatoes is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
- Hearty Indulgence: Chicken wings, with their crispy exterior and juicy interior, add a hearty indulgence to the meal. The contrast of textures between the crunchy wings and creamy potatoes creates a satisfying and fulfilling dining experience.
- Flavor Variety: The versatility of chicken wings allows for a wide range of flavor options, from spicy buffalo to savory garlic parmesan. This variety of flavors complements the richness of the au gratin potatoes, providing a dynamic and personalized taste adventure for each diner.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Chicken wings have a universal appeal, making them a crowd-pleaser for various occasions. Whether served at a casual gathering or a festive celebration, the combination of crispy wings and cheesy potatoes is sure to be a hit among guests, making it a go-to choice for any social event.
Chicken wings, a timeless classic, add a touch of hearty indulgence, flavor variety, and crowd-pleasing appeal to the table when paired with au gratin potatoes.
6. Seared Scallops
For an elegant twist, seared scallops offer a delicate and luxurious pairing. The buttery flavor of the scallops complements the creamy texture of the potatoes, creating a sophisticated dining experience.
- Elevated Elegance: Seared scallops elevate the overall dining experience with their delicate and refined nature. The subtle sweetness and buttery richness of the scallops add a touch of luxury, turning a simple meal into a culinary delight.
- Buttery Harmony: The buttery flavor of the scallops harmonizes seamlessly with the creamy potatoes. This combination creates a symphony of richness that tantalizes the taste buds, offering a decadent yet balanced fusion of flavors.
- Sensory Pleasure: The textural interplay between the silky smoothness of the scallops and the creaminess of the potatoes provides a sensory pleasure that defines this pairing. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making the dining experience truly memorable.
Seared scallops, with their elevated elegance, buttery harmony, and sensory pleasure, transform the meal into a sophisticated culinary experience when paired with au gratin potatoes.
7. Vegetable Stir Fry
Adding a burst of color and nutrition, a vegetable stir fry is an excellent choice. The variety of veggies brings a crisp and fresh component to the meal, balancing out the richness of the au gratin potatoes.
- Vibrant Visual Appeal: A vegetable stir fry introduces a vibrant array of colors to the plate, enhancing the visual appeal of the entire meal. The bright hues of assorted vegetables create an inviting and appetizing presentation, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
- Nutrient-Rich Balance: The variety of vegetables in the stir fry adds a nutrient-rich element to the meal. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, the vegetables not only contribute to the overall healthiness of the dish but also create a well-rounded balance against the indulgent nature of au gratin potatoes.
- Crisp and Fresh Contrast: The crispness of the stir-fried vegetables provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the potatoes. This interplay of textures elevates the overall dining experience, ensuring a satisfying and well-balanced bite with every forkful.
A vegetable stir fry proves to be an excellent companion to au gratin potatoes, offering vibrant visual appeal, nutrient-rich balance, and a crisp and fresh contrast that enhances the overall enjoyment of the meal.
8. Pork Chops
For meat lovers, pork chops provide a hearty and savory option. The combination of juicy pork and cheesy potatoes is a classic duo that never fails to impress.
- Hearty Meatiness: Pork chops, with their juicy and flavorful meat, bring a hearty quality to the meal. The substantial nature of pork chops complements the richness of au gratin potatoes, creating a satisfying and fulfilling dining experience for those who appreciate a substantial meat option.
- Savory Harmony: The savory goodness of pork chops harmonizes seamlessly with the cheesy potatoes. The combination of the meaty, savory pork and the creamy potatoes creates a timeless flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent.
- Classic Appeal: The pairing of pork chops and au gratin potatoes carries a classic and universally appealing charm. Whether served for a family dinner or a special occasion, this classic duo is sure to please the palates of meat enthusiasts and contribute to a memorable dining experience.
Pork chops, with their hearty meatiness, savory harmony, and classic appeal, provide a timeless and satisfying option when paired with au gratin potatoes.
9. Herb-Crusted Cod
If you’re leaning towards a seafood option with a different texture, herb-crusted cod is a fantastic choice. The herb-infused crust adds a layer of complexity that enhances the overall dining experience.
- Distinctive Texture: Herb-crusted cod offers a unique texture compared to other seafood options. The crispness of the herb-infused crust contrasts with the creamy au gratin potatoes, providing a delightful textural variation that keeps each bite interesting.
- Herb-Infused Complexity: The herb-infused crust introduces a layer of complexity to the dish. The combination of aromatic herbs with the delicate flavor of cod adds depth and sophistication, transforming the meal into a more refined and nuanced culinary experience.
- Seafood Elegance: Herb-crusted cod brings a touch of seafood elegance to the table. The light and flaky texture of the cod, combined with the herb crust, create a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also appeals to those looking for a more elevated seafood option.
Herb-crusted cod stands out as a fantastic choice for those seeking a seafood option with distinctive texture, herb-infused complexity, and seafood elegance when paired with au gratin potatoes.
10. Asparagus Spears
For a simple yet sophisticated side, asparagus spears bring a light and crunchy element to the meal. The slightly bitter notes of asparagus complement the richness of au gratin potatoes, creating a well-balanced plate.
- Elegantly Simple: Asparagus spears, with their slender and elongated form, contribute an elegantly simple aesthetic to the plate. This visual appeal enhances the overall dining experience, making the meal not only delicious but also visually pleasing.
- Light and Crunchy Texture: The light and crunchy texture of asparagus spears provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy potatoes. Each bite offers a crispness that cuts through the richness, creating a well-balanced combination of textures that excites the palate.
- Flavor Harmony: The slightly bitter notes of asparagus work in harmony with the cheesy au gratin potatoes. This subtle bitterness adds a layer of complexity to the overall flavor profile, creating a well-rounded and sophisticated taste experience.
Asparagus spears, with their elegantly simple appearance, light and crunchy texture, and flavor harmony, make for a perfect side that adds a touch of sophistication and balance to au gratin potatoes.
11. Chocolate Fondue
For a unique and indulgent dessert option, consider chocolate fondue. The sweet and velvety chocolate pairs surprisingly well with the savory potatoes, offering a delightful contrast that satisfies the sweet tooth.
- Indulgent Dessert: Chocolate fondue adds a touch of luxury and indulgence to the meal. The velvety smoothness of the chocolate, paired with the rich au gratin potatoes, transforms the dining experience into a decadent treat that concludes the meal on a sweet note.
- Surprising Contrast: The combination of sweet chocolate and savory potatoes may seem unconventional, but it creates a surprisingly delightful contrast. The sweetness of the chocolate enhances the richness of the potatoes, providing a unique and memorable flavor combination.
- Interactive Experience: Chocolate fondue also introduces an interactive element to the dessert. Dipping bite-sized portions of au gratin potatoes into the warm chocolate creates a fun and engaging experience, making it an ideal choice for social gatherings or family dinners.
Chocolate fondue, with its indulgent dessert quality, surprising contrast, and interactive experience, offers a sweet and satisfying conclusion to the au gratin potato feast.
12. Cheesecake
If you prefer a more traditional dessert, cheesecake is a classic choice. The creamy texture and rich flavor of cheesecake make it a perfect way to conclude your au gratin potato feast.
- Classic Elegance: Cheesecake brings a sense of classic elegance to the dessert course. Its smooth and creamy texture, coupled with the rich flavor, adds a touch of sophistication that complements the hearty nature of au gratin potatoes.
- Creamy Indulgence: The creamy indulgence of cheesecake provides a satisfying and decadent conclusion to the meal. The juxtaposition of the dense and velvety cheesecake with the earlier savory course creates a well-rounded dining experience.
- Versatile Pairing: Cheesecake’s versatility in flavors—from classic New York to fruity variations—offers a complementary range that can be tailored to individual preferences. This adaptability ensures that the cheesecake pairs harmoniously with the diverse flavors of au gratin potatoes.
Cheesecake, with its classic elegance, creamy indulgence, and versatile pairing options, stands as a timeless choice for concluding the au gratin potato feast on a sweet and satisfying note.
13. Mojito
To refresh your palate, a mojito is an excellent choice. The combination of mint, lime, and a hint of sweetness provides a light and effervescent contrast to the hearty potatoes.
- Palate Cleansing: The minty freshness of a mojito acts as a palate cleanser, refreshing your taste buds between bites of the rich au gratin potatoes. This ensures each mouthful is as vibrant and enjoyable as the first.
- Citrusy Zest: The lime in the mojito contributes a citrusy zest that cuts through the richness of the potatoes. This addition of acidity enhances the overall flavor experience, creating a well-balanced and satisfying combination.
- Light and Effervescent: A mojito’s effervescent nature adds a light and bubbly quality to the meal. This effervescence counterbalances the heartiness of the potatoes, providing a refreshing and uplifting sensation that enhances the overall dining experience.
A mojito proves to be an excellent choice for those seeking a palate-cleansing, citrusy, and effervescent contrast to complement the hearty flavors of au gratin potatoes.
14. Iced Tea
For a classic and versatile beverage, iced tea is a refreshing option. Its crisp and clean taste acts as a palate cleanser between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Crisp Refreshment: Iced tea, with its crisp and clean flavor, provides a refreshing break between bites of au gratin potatoes. The lightness of the tea acts as a palate cleanser, ensuring that each mouthful remains vibrant and enjoyable.
- Versatile Accompaniment: The versatility of iced tea makes it a suitable companion for a variety of flavors. Whether your au gratin potatoes lean towards savory or cheesy, the neutral and cooling nature of iced tea adapts seamlessly, making it a universally appealing choice.
- Hydration Boost: In addition to its flavor profile, iced tea serves as a hydrating element to the meal. The coolness and simplicity of the beverage contribute to an overall sense of satisfaction and well-being during the dining experience.
Iced tea, with its crisp refreshment, versatile accompaniment, and hydration boost, emerges as a timeless and refreshing option to complement the flavors of au gratin potatoes.
15. Lamb Chops
For a bold and flavorful meat option, lamb chops are a fantastic choice. The robust taste of lamb pairs well with the cheesy goodness of au gratin potatoes, creating a satisfying and memorable meal.
- Bold Flavor Profile: Lamb chops bring a bold and distinctive flavor to the table. The robust taste of lamb, with its slightly gamey notes, adds a layer of complexity that complements the rich and cheesy nature of au gratin potatoes, creating a harmonious and indulgent flavor profile.
- Hearty Satisfaction: The hearty and satisfying nature of lamb chops makes them an ideal choice for those looking for a substantial meat option. The combination of succulent lamb and creamy potatoes ensures a fulfilling and memorable dining experience.
- Memorable Combination: The pairing of lamb chops with au gratin potatoes creates a memorable combination that lingers on the palate. The interplay of savory lamb and cheesy potatoes provides a satisfying and flavorful union, making it a standout choice for those seeking a bold and hearty meal.
Lamb chops, with their bold flavor profile, hearty satisfaction, and memorable combination, stand out as a fantastic choice to create a satisfying and memorable meal when paired with au gratin potatoes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the perfect side dishes for your au gratin potatoes can transform a simple meal into a culinary adventure. Whether you opt for the earthy goodness of mushroom stroganoff or the crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts, each option adds its own unique flair to the dining experience. Experiment with these 15 perfect side dishes to discover your own favorite combinations and elevate your au gratin potato feast to new heights.
Answers To Your Questions
What food goes well with au gratin potatoes?
When considering accompaniments for au gratin potatoes, it’s essential to balance the richness of the dish with complementary flavors and textures. Here are some foods that pair well with au gratin potatoes:
- Mushroom Stroganoff: The creamy and savory nature of mushroom stroganoff complements the cheesy goodness of au gratin potatoes, creating a delightful combination.
- Garlic Green Beans: The crisp texture and bold garlic flavor of green beans provide a fresh and vibrant contrast to the richness of au gratin potatoes.
- Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp: For a touch of seafood, grilled chili lime shrimp adds zest and spice, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges and nutty undertones of roasted Brussels sprouts offer a crunchy element that enhances the overall taste profile.
What pairs well with scalloped potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes, with their creamy texture, open the door to a variety of complementary pairings. Here are some options to enhance your scalloped potato experience:
- Seared Scallops: For an elegant twist, seared scallops bring a delicate and luxurious pairing, complementing the creamy texture of scalloped potatoes.
- Herb-Crusted Cod: Opting for a different seafood option, herb-crusted cod with its flavorful crust adds complexity to the dining experience.
- Pork Chops: A classic choice, pork chops provide a hearty and savory option that pairs well with the creamy goodness of scalloped potatoes.
What to pair with dauphinoise potatoes?
Dauphinoise potatoes, known for their rich and creamy layers, can be elevated with these delectable pairings:
- Lamb Chops: The bold and flavorful taste of lamb chops complements the richness of dauphinoise potatoes, creating a satisfying and memorable meal.
- Asparagus Spears: For a simple yet sophisticated side, asparagus spears bring a light and crunchy element, balancing the richness of dauphinoise potatoes.
- Chicken Wings: The hearty and flavorful nature of chicken wings is a classic choice that adds a satisfying touch to dauphinoise potatoes.
What do you use an au gratin dish for?
An au gratin dish serves as a versatile kitchen essential, perfect for preparing and presenting a variety of dishes. Here are some common uses for an au gratin dish:
- Baking Au Gratin Potatoes: The dish is specifically designed for baking dishes like au gratin potatoes, allowing them to develop a golden and crispy crust.
- Casseroles: Use the au gratin dish for baking casseroles, where the top layer can be browned to perfection.
- Baking Gratinated Dishes: The shallow, wide shape of the dish is ideal for gratinating various dishes, creating a deliciously browned top layer.
What to serve with au gratin potatoes vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist on the classic au gratin potatoes, consider these flavorful and meat-free accompaniments:
- Vegetable Stir Fry: A colorful and nutritious vegetable stir fry adds a burst of flavor and freshness to complement the cheesy goodness of au gratin potatoes.
- Asparagus Spears: Light and crunchy asparagus spears bring a simple yet sophisticated vegetarian option to the table.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges and nutty undertones of roasted Brussels sprouts provide a deliciously vegetarian crunch.
What to serve with au gratin potatoes healthy?
For a healthier spin on au gratin potatoes, opt for these nutritious and wholesome pairings:
- Garlic Green Beans: The bold garlic flavor and crisp texture of green beans add a healthy and fresh element to balance the richness of au gratin potatoes.
- Vegetable Stir Fry: A light and colorful vegetable stir fry offers a healthy dose of nutrients, creating a well-balanced meal.
- Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp: Incorporating lean protein, grilled chili lime shrimp provides a healthy and flavorful option.
What to serve with au gratin potatoes for dinner?
Crafting a well-rounded dinner with au gratin potatoes involves selecting satisfying main dishes and complementary sides. Here are some dinner ideas:
- Chicken Wings: Classic and hearty, chicken wings make for a satisfying main dish when paired with au gratin potatoes.
- Pork Chops: Juicy and savory, pork chops add substance to the dinner table alongside au gratin potatoes.
- Lamb Chops: For a more upscale dinner, lamb chops offer a bold and flavorful choice to complement the richness of au gratin potatoes.
What main dish goes with au gratin potatoes?
When choosing a main dish to accompany au gratin potatoes, opt for options that balance the flavors and textures. Here are some main dishes that pair well:
- Seared Scallops: An elegant main dish, seared scallops provide a delicate and luxurious pairing with the creamy texture of au gratin potatoes.
- Pork Chops: A classic and hearty choice, pork chops bring a savory element that complements the cheesy goodness of au gratin potatoes.
- Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp: For a seafood option, grilled chili lime shrimp adds zest and spice, creating a harmonious combination.
What main dish goes well with cheesy potatoes?
Cheesy potatoes call for main dishes that enhance their rich and indulgent nature. Consider these options for a satisfying meal:
- Chicken Wings: The hearty and flavorful nature of chicken wings pairs well with the cheesy goodness of potatoes, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Pork Chops: A classic choice, pork chops provide a savory and substantial option to complement the cheesy potatoes.
- Lamb Chops: For a bolder flavor profile, lamb chops offer a satisfying main dish that pairs well with the richness of cheesy potatoes.
What meat to serve with au gratin potatoes?
When incorporating meat into your au gratin potato feast, consider these options for a well-rounded and satisfying meal:
- Chicken Wings: A classic and hearty choice, chicken wings provide a satisfying meat option that pairs well with the cheesy goodness of au gratin potatoes.
- Pork Chops: Juicy and savory, pork chops offer a substantial meat pairing that complements the richness of au gratin potatoes.
- Lamb Chops: For a bold and flavorful meat option, lamb chops bring a satisfying element to the table alongside au gratin potatoes.
What kind of chicken goes with au gratin potatoes?
Pairing the right kind of chicken with au gratin potatoes can create a harmonious and flavorful combination. Consider these options:
- Baked Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, baked chicken thighs complement the richness of au gratin potatoes, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Grilled Chicken Breast: For a lighter option, grilled chicken breast adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the cheesy goodness of au gratin potatoes.
- Chicken Drumsticks: Hearty and savory, chicken drumsticks provide a satisfying meat option that complements the creamy texture of au gratin potatoes.