Smoked Au Gratin Potatoes

By Todd Martin July 25, 2024 5 mins read 141 Views

Smoked au gratin potatoes are an upgraded version of the classic comfort food. This simple recipe uses basic ingredients commonly found in your fridge and pantry!

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What is the difference between au gratin and scalloped potatoes?

Few things are better than creamy au gratin potatoes. Placing this popular comfort food into the smoker intensifies the flavor. We were impressed with the light smokiness, crisped edges, and all that cheesy, buttery goodness. These smoked au gratin potatoes take comfort food to another level.

What is the difference between au gratin and scalloped potatoes?

Both of these potato casseroles use a sauce made of milk (or cream), butter, and flour. However, au gratin includes cheese, giving it a delicious golden brown crust, while scalloped potatoes are known for their browned “scalloped” edges.

How long does it take to cook au gratin potatoes on a smoker?

It takes about 1 hour at 350 degrees F. Aim for 2 hours at 275 degrees F if you’d like the gratin smokier.

Choosing the right potatoes

Medium-sized russets work well for smoked au gratin potatoes. They have a fair amount of starch and a delicious buttery flavor. You can also make this dish with large red potatoes. Slice the potatoes using a mandolin or your food processor. Scrub them with a vegetable brush under cold water and dry them well with a paper towel before slicing.

Equipment

9 X 9 pan (cast-iron, grills safe stoneware, or aluminum)
Medium saucepan
Whisk
Spatula
Large bowl
Plastic wrap
Smoker or pellet grill
Fruitwood chips or pellets (apple recommended)

Ingredients

Medium russet potatoes
Unsalted butter
All-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
Milk: whole or 2%
Sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for optional topping
Gruyere cheese
Ground mustard powder (or dry mustard)
Onion powder
Ground nutmeg
Salt and black pepper to taste

How to make au gratin potatoes in a grill or smoker

Preheat your pellet grill to 350 degrees F, or set up your smoker or grill for indirect cooking. Add wood chips to the smoker five minutes before the au gratin potatoes go on.
Wash, dry, and slice potatoes.
Place them into a microwave-safe dish, cover them with plastic wrap, and microwave for 8 minutes, until slightly tender.
Remove from microwave, take off the plastic wrap, and let the potatoes cool for 10 minutes before handling.

Cheese sauce over potatoes — derrickriches.com

Making the Sauce

Melt butter in a medium-sized saucepan. Add flour and cook over medium-high heat for 1 minute, stirring often.
Next, add onion powder, mustard, and nutmeg.
Slowly whisk in milk, then fold in the milk.
Reduce heat to medium, and continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Layer potatoes in the dish or cast iron skillet. Season lightly with salt and black pepper, and pour cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle with cheese.

Cooking Au Gratin Potatoes

Place pan into the smoker, close the lid, and cook for 45-55 minutes.
During the last 20 minutes of cooking, top the potatoes with your desired amount of cheddar cheese.
Once the smoked au gratin potatoes are golden brown and fork tender, remove them from the grill or smoker and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Oven method

Prepare sauce and potatoes as directed—bake au gratin potatoes in a casserole dish at 350 degrees for 55 minutes, until tender.

Leftovers

Store leftover smoked au gratin potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Freeze in individual portions and microwave for 3-3 1/2 minutes or until warmed through.

Pairings

Pair these fantastic smoked au gratin potatoes with some of these delicious recipes!