1 Package (5.5 Oz) Au Gratin Potatoes (Dry Mix) contains 490 calories. If you're looking for a quick and easy side dish for dinner, or need to bring something to a potluck, Au Gratin Potatoes are a tasty choice. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about these delicious potatoes, from nutritional information to preparation tips and serving suggestions.
Au Gratin Potatoes are a dry mix that can be found at most grocery stores. One serving (1/4 of the package) contains 120 calories, 1.5g of fat, and 520mg of sodium. The mix includes potatoes, cheese, and seasoning, so you don't need to add anything except water and milk to make a creamy and delicious dish.
Whether you're cooking for family or friends, Au Gratin Potatoes are a crowd-pleaser. They're easy to make, affordable, and versatile enough to be served with a variety of dishes.
Caloric Value of Au Gratin Potatoes
As mentioned earlier, 1 serving of Au Gratin Potatoes (1/4 of the package) contains 120 calories. If you were to eat the entire package, which yields 4 servings, you would consume a total of 490 calories. While 490 calories may seem high for a side dish, it's important to remember that Au Gratin Potatoes are meant to be a treat, not an everyday food. They're great for special occasions or when you want to indulge a little. If you're looking to cut back on calories, you can use low-fat milk instead of whole milk and reduce the amount of cheese you add to the recipe.
Ingredients in Au Gratin Potatoes
The main ingredients in Au Gratin Potatoes are potatoes, cheese, and seasoning mix. While the exact ingredients may vary by brand, most mixes will contain some variation of these ingredients. In addition to the mix, you'll also need water and milk to prepare the dish. The package instructions will specify the exact amounts needed. If you want to add some additional flavor or texture to the dish, you can also add chopped onions, garlic, or breadcrumbs to the mix.
Preparation of Au Gratin Potatoes
Preparing Au Gratin Potatoes is a breeze. Here are the steps to follow: 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. 2. Combine the Au Gratin Potatoes mix, water, and milk in a bowl and stir until well-combined.
Serving Size of Au Gratin Potatoes
One serving of Au Gratin Potatoes is 1/4 of the package, which equates to approximately 1/2 cup of prepared potatoes. This makes it easy to portion out the dish if you're serving a group of people.
Health Benefits of Au Gratin Potatoes
While Au Gratin Potatoes aren't necessarily a health food, they do have some nutritional benefits. Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, which provide energy for your body. They're also a good source of vitamin C and potassium. However, the high fat and sodium content in Au Gratin Potatoes means that they should be consumed in moderation.
Side Dish Ideas for Au Gratin Potatoes
Au Gratin Potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas: - Grilled steak - Roasted chicken
The Best Occasions to Serve Au Gratin Potatoes
Au Gratin Potatoes are a great dish for special occasions. Here are some ideas: - Thanksgiving - Christmas dinner
Variations in Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe
There are many variations of the classic Au Gratin Potatoes recipe. Here are some ideas: - Add chopped bacon to the mix for a smoky flavor. - Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions about Au Gratin Potatoes
Q: Can I make Au Gratin Potatoes ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dish and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake it. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Au Gratin Potatoes vs. Other Side Dishes
When it comes to side dishes, there are a lot of options to choose from. Here's how Au Gratin Potatoes stack up against some other popular side dishes: - Mashed Potatoes: Au Gratin Potatoes have a richer, creamier flavor than mashed potatoes. They're also higher in calories and fat. - Green Beans: While green beans are a healthy side dish, they don't have the same indulgent flavor as Au Gratin Potatoes.
Au Gratin Potatoes are a delicious and indulgent side dish that can be enjoyed on special occasions or when you're in the mood for something creamy and cheesy.
5 FAQ About Au Gratin Potatoes
1. What are au gratin potatoes?
Au gratin potatoes are a popular dish made of thinly sliced potatoes cooked in a creamy cheese sauce and baked until the top is golden brown and crispy. It is a delicious side dish that can complement various meals.
2. How many calories are there in a package of dry au gratin potatoes?
A package of dry au gratin potatoes weighing 5.5 ounces contains 490 calories. This calorie count does not include any additional ingredients you may add, such as milk or butter.
3. How do I prepare au gratin potatoes?
To prepare au gratin potatoes, you need to first preheat your oven to the required temperature as mentioned on the package instructions. Then, mix the dry potato mix with milk and water, add butter, and stir in the cheese sauce till it becomes creamy. Layer the mixture in a baking dish and bake until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
4. Can I customize my au gratin potatoes?
Yes, you can customize your au gratin potatoes by adding ingredients like diced onions, diced ham, broccoli, or even jalapeno peppers. You can also top the dish with breadcrumbs, additional cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor.
5. Are au gratin potatoes a healthy side dish option?
Au gratin potatoes may not be the healthiest side dish option as they are high in calories and fat content. However, you can make some healthier swaps such as using skim milk instead of whole milk or reducing the amount of butter in the recipe to make it a healthier option.