Discover a tantalizing recipe for Crispy Indulgence: Roast Potatoes Drenched in Creamy Mornay Magic, featuring golden potatoes, rich cheese, and savory mornay sauce.
Crispy Indulgence: Roast Potatoes Drenched in Creamy Mornay Magic
Welcome to a culinary journey where simple, humble potatoes are transformed into a luxurious and unforgettable dish. Meet your new favorite side dish: Crispy Indulgence, a delightful combination of golden roast potatoes bathed in rich, creamy Mornay sauce. This recipe marries the beloved texture of crispy potatoes with the savory notes of melted cheese and cream, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Roast Potatoes:
- 2 pounds of baby potatoes, washed and halved
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary leaves, roughly chopped
For the Mornay Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of grated Gruyère cheese
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Roast Potatoes:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures the potatoes will crisp up nicely.
- Prepare the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Make sure each potato piece is well coated with the oil and seasoning.
- Roast the Potatoes: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, tossing halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Mornay Sauce:
- Make the Roux: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and bubbling.
- Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to cook over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sauce begins to thicken, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and gradually add the Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses while whisking constantly. Continue to stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the Sauce: Add a pinch of nutmeg, along with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat once everything is well combined.
Assemble:
- Combine Potatoes and Sauce: Transfer the hot, crispy potatoes to a serving dish. Pour the warm Mornay sauce over the potatoes, making sure each piece is drenched in the creamy goodness.
- Garnish (Optional): For added flavor and presentation, sprinkle some additional fresh thyme or chopped chives on top.
Conclusion
There you have it – a dish that takes the simplicity of potatoes and elevates them to decadent heights. The contrast between the crispy exteriors and the velvety Mornay sauce makes this a versatile side dish, suitable for festive dinners or a cozy family meal. Each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures, sure to impress guests and delight your loved ones. Enjoy this savory delight and the smiles it brings to the table!