Copycat Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin – Creamy, Cheesy & Perfect Side Dish

Bring the magic of a steakhouse side dish right to your kitchen with these Copycat Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin.

Thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a luscious cream sauce, layered with a trio of cheeses, and finished until golden and bubbling.

Pure comfort in every forkful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant-quality at home – just like Ruth’s Chris!

Ultra-creamy texture with rich flavor

Melted cheesy topping that’s irresistible

Perfect for holidays, parties, or cozy dinners

Easy to customize with herbs, bacon, or different cheeses

Freezer-friendly for easy make-ahead meals

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Russet potatoes – starchy, slice thinly for tenderness

Cheddar cheese – bold and tangy flavor

Fontina or provolone – smooth melting texture

Parmesan cheese – nutty and salty finish

Heavy cream + chicken stock – rich but balanced sauce

Onion and garlic – build savory depth

Butter – for sautéing and greasing

Fresh parsley – optional for garnish

Pro Tips Before You Start

Slice potatoes paper-thin for even cooking

Cook onion and garlic slowly to develop sweetness

Shred your own cheese for the best melt

Let the dish rest after baking for the sauce to thicken perfectly

Use a mandoline for evenly thin slices (carefully!)

How to Make Copycat Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat oven

Heat your oven to 425°F to ensure a beautifully golden, bubbling top.

Step 2: Build the flavor base

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.

Add finely diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes.

Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper; cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the sauce

Pour in heavy cream and chicken stock.

Stir gently and let simmer (but don’t boil) for a rich, smooth sauce.

Step 4: Prepare the potatoes

Slice russet potatoes about 1/8 inch thick using a mandoline or sharp knife.

Stir into the simmering sauce and cook for 15–20 minutes until starting to soften.

Step 5: Assemble the dish

Butter an 8×8 inch baking dish.

Transfer the potato mixture into it, spreading evenly without pressing down.

Step 6: Add the cheese

Sprinkle cheddar, fontina (or provolone), and parmesan evenly over the top.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden, bubbly, and deliciously irresistible.

Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Step 8: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

What to Serve It With

Grilled steak or prime rib

Roast chicken or pork chops

Pan-seared salmon or baked fish

Green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts

A fresh green salad with vinaigrette

Variations / Substitutions

Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a denser, buttery texture

Add crumbled bacon for extra smoky flavor

Include sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist

Swap in Gruyère or smoked gouda for different cheesy profiles

Make it vegetarian – use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven covered with foil until heated through, or microwave small portions with a splash of cream

Freeze: After baking and cooling, freeze for up to 1 month.

Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use different potatoes?
Yes! Yukon Golds work wonderfully for a creamier texture.

Can I make it ahead?
Definitely. Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

How thin should I slice the potatoes?
About 1/8 inch thick—thin enough to cook evenly without turning mushy.

Why shouldn’t I use pre-shredded cheese?
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Can I make this spicier?
Sure! Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

How do I avoid a watery gratin?
Simmer the potatoes in the sauce before baking to release excess moisture.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.

Final Thoughts

These Copycat Ruth’s Chris Potatoes au Gratin are pure comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and golden-bubbly perfection.

Whether you’re making them for a holiday feast, a dinner party, or simply because you deserve a little luxury, they’ll steal the show every single time.