Gordon Ramsay’s Boulangere Potatoes Recipe [+Tips & Tricks]

If you’re a fan of rich, comforting side dishes that are not only flavorful but also visually stunning, Gordon Ramsay’s Boulangere Potatoes are a must-try. This dish is a perfect balance of soft, creamy potatoes and savory depth from the aromatic herbs and rich broth, making it an ideal accompaniment for a variety of mains, particularly roasted meats.

What Is Gordon Ramsay’s Boulangere Potatoes

Gordon Ramsay’s Boulangere Potatoes are a variation of the classic French dish “Pommes Boulangère”, which traditionally involves thinly sliced potatoes cooked in a rich, flavorful broth along with onions and herbs. Gordon Ramsay’s version elevates this dish by layering the potatoes, infusing them with a deep, savory flavor and achieving a crisp, golden top while maintaining a creamy, tender interior. The potatoes are soaked in a delicious stock, often made with a combination of chicken or vegetable stock, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.

The dish gets its name from the French word "boulangère," meaning "baker," as it was originally cooked in the residual heat of the baker’s oven. With Ramsay’s twist, the potatoes are baked to perfection in a hot oven, ensuring the ultimate balance of flavor and texture. This recipe is perfect for a dinner party or a family meal, as it pairs beautifully with roasted meats, especially lamb, beef, or chicken.

Gordon Ramsay’s Boulangere Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To prepare Gordon Ramsay’s Boulangere Potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Potatoes – Choose a waxy variety like Yukon Gold, which holds its shape and absorbs the flavors of the stock well.
2. Onions – Yellow onions are ideal, as they add sweetness and depth to the dish.
3. Garlic – Fresh garlic will give the potatoes a rich, savory flavor.
4. Chicken or Vegetable Stock – You’ll need about 500ml of stock to ensure the potatoes soak up all the delicious flavors. Homemade or good-quality store-bought stock works best.
5. Fresh Thyme – The fragrant herbal notes from thyme are perfect for infusing the potatoes.
6. Bay Leaves – A couple of bay leaves add an earthy, aromatic touch to the broth.
7. Butter – For greasing the baking dish and adding richness to the potatoes.
8. Olive Oil – A drizzle of olive oil helps crisp up the top of the potatoes and adds extra flavor.
9. Salt and Pepper – To season the dish to taste.

Equipment Needed

Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment:

1. Sharp Knife – To thinly slice the potatoes and onions.
2. Mandoline Slicer (optional) – This will help achieve uniform, paper-thin slices of potatoes and onions for even cooking.
3. Baking Dish – A medium-sized, oven-proof baking dish (around 9×9 inches) is ideal for this recipe.
4. Frying Pan – A skillet for sautéing the onions and garlic to enhance their flavors.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons – To accurately measure your stock, herbs, and seasonings.
6. Oven – Preheated to around 180°C (350°F) for baking.

How To Make Gordon Ramsay’s Boulangere Potatoes?

Making Gordon Ramsay’s Boulangere Potatoes is simple, but requires a little patience to get the layers and flavors just right. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly (around 2mm thick). Using a mandoline slicer will help achieve even slices, which ensures uniform cooking.
3. Prepare the Onions: Peel and thinly slice the onions. Set aside.
4. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Heat a little olive oil and butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, then sauté them gently until soft and translucent. This will develop a sweet, savory base for the dish.
5. Layer the Potatoes: Grease your baking dish with butter, then start layering the potatoes and onions in the dish, making sure the potatoes slightly overlap. You want to create multiple layers of potatoes and onions for even distribution of flavor.
6. Add Stock and Herbs: Once the potatoes are layered, pour over the hot stock, ensuring that the liquid comes halfway up the potatoes. Add the thyme and bay leaves to the stock.
7. Season: Season generously with salt and pepper. For extra flavor, you can drizzle a little olive oil on top to help crisp the potatoes.
8. Bake the Potatoes: Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for around 60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
9. Crisp the Top: Once the potatoes are tender, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the top to become golden and crispy.
10. Serve: Let the potatoes rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to set. Serve alongside your favorite roast meats or as a stand-alone side dish.

Expert Tips

1. Uniform Slicing: For the best texture, aim for uniform slices. A mandoline slicer helps achieve perfect consistency in thickness, allowing the potatoes to cook evenly.
2. Use Homemade Stock: While store-bought stock works, homemade stock offers a richer, more complex flavor. If you have time, prepare your own chicken or vegetable stock for this dish.
3. Layer Carefully: The key to achieving that beautiful, layered effect is to arrange the potatoes and onions in neat, slightly overlapping rows. This ensures that every bite is infused with flavor.
4. Add Cheese (Optional): For a more decadent version of Boulangere Potatoes, sprinkle grated Gruyère or Parmesan cheese between the layers of potatoes before baking. This will give the dish an indulgent, cheesy crust.
5. Rest Before Serving: Let the potatoes rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to cut and serve.

Gordon Ramsay’s Boulangere Potatoes are a stunning, delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender, flavorful potatoes soaked in savory stock and enhanced with herbs, this dish offers comfort and sophistication in every bite.

Whether you’re serving it for a Sunday roast or a dinner party, these potatoes are sure to impress. With a few simple tips and the right techniques, you can easily recreate this culinary classic at home and elevate your next meal to gourmet levels.

Easy Recipe Variations For Gordon Ramsay’s Boulangere Potatoes

Gordon Ramsay’s Boulangere Potatoes are a simple yet flavorful French-inspired dish that transforms humble potatoes into a comforting side dish. While the traditional version is already delicious with thinly sliced potatoes, onions, and herbs baked in a rich stock, you can elevate or personalize this recipe with a few easy variations. Here are some fun twists to consider:

1. Cheesy Boulangere Potatoes:
   Add a layer of grated cheese like Gruyère, Cheddar, or Parmesan in between the layers of potato and onion. The cheese will melt into the potatoes, creating a wonderfully creamy and golden crust. You can even sprinkle some cheese on top for a crispy, golden finish.

2. Garlic & Herb Infusion:
   Garlic and herbs are already key ingredients in Boulangere Potatoes, but you can enhance the flavor by infusing the stock with crushed garlic, rosemary, thyme, or bay leaves before pouring it over the potatoes. This will deepen the aroma and flavor profile, making it even more savory.

3. Sautéed Mushrooms:
   Adding sautéed mushrooms to your Boulangere Potatoes gives an earthy richness to the dish. Mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or even wild mushrooms can complement the sweetness of the onions and the starchy goodness of the potatoes. Stir them in with the onion layers for extra depth.

4. Bacon or Pancetta:
   For a savory twist, add crispy bacon or pancetta between the layers of potato and onion. The smoky, salty flavor of the meat will balance the natural sweetness of the onions and elevate the overall taste of the dish.

5. Vegetarian Boulangere Potatoes:
   For a vegetarian option, you can omit the meat and increase the vegetable content. Consider adding sliced zucchini, carrots, or parsnips to the dish. These vegetables not only add nutritional value but also bring in new textures and flavors.

6. Truffle Oil or Truffle Salt:
   For a more decadent take, drizzle the potatoes with a little truffle oil before baking or finish the dish with a sprinkle of truffle salt. Truffles add a luxurious depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the potatoes and onions.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Boulangere Potatoes are a great make-ahead dish and often taste even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld. Here’s how to store leftovers properly to maintain their freshness:

1. Cool Before Storing:
   Always let your Boulangere Potatoes cool to room temperature before storing them. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which can make the potatoes soggy.

2. Use Airtight Containers:
   Store leftovers in airtight containers to preserve the flavor and texture. If you’re using a glass container, ensure that it is sealed tightly to avoid air exposure, which can cause the dish to dry out.

3. Refrigeration:
   Keep your Boulangere Potatoes in the fridge if you’re planning to eat them within a few days. They can last for up to 3-4 days. If you plan on keeping them for longer, it’s best to freeze them.

4. Freezing:
   If you want to store Boulangere Potatoes for a longer period, freezing is an excellent option. Before freezing, portion the potatoes into individual servings. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

5. Reheating:
   To reheat your Boulangere Potatoes, use the oven to maintain the crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the potatoes on a baking tray. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out and bake for 15-20 minutes. If you prefer a crispier top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.

What Goes Well With Boulangere Potatoes?

Boulangere Potatoes are versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes to create a complete meal. Their rich, comforting nature makes them an excellent accompaniment to both meats and vegetarian meals. Here are a few ideas:

1. Roast Chicken:
   Boulangere Potatoes and roast chicken are a match made in heaven. The crispy skin and tender meat of a roast chicken pair perfectly with the soft, creamy potatoes. Add a side of seasonal vegetables like green beans or carrots for a wholesome, balanced meal.

2. Steak:
   A juicy steak, whether it’s a rib-eye, filet mignon, or sirloin, is another great pairing. The bold flavors of the steak are complemented by the subtle earthiness of the potatoes. A rich red wine sauce or béarnaise sauce can be drizzled over both the steak and potatoes for added indulgence.

3. Grilled Fish:
   For a lighter option, serve Boulangere Potatoes with grilled fish such as salmon, trout, or cod. The mild flavors of the fish contrast nicely with the richness of the potatoes, creating a balanced plate. A squeeze of fresh lemon over the fish will add brightness.

4. Braised Lamb:
   Lamb, particularly braised or slow-cooked cuts like shoulder or shank, pairs wonderfully with Boulangere Potatoes. The tender, flavorful lamb complements the soft, buttery texture of the potatoes, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.

5. Vegetarian Dishes:
   For a vegetarian feast, serve the Boulangere Potatoes with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables. Dishes like roasted beets, cauliflower steaks, or sautéed spinach offer vibrant colors and fresh flavors that balance the richness of the potatoes.

6. Gravy or Sauce:
   Boulangere Potatoes can benefit from a flavorful gravy or sauce to drizzle over them. For example, a creamy mushroom sauce, a red wine reduction, or even a classic brown gravy will elevate the dish and add more depth to its flavors.

Conclusion

Gordon Ramsay’s Boulangere Potatoes are a comforting and delicious side dish that can be customized with various ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you’re adding cheese, mushrooms, or crispy bacon, this dish is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of meats, fish, or vegetables.

It’s perfect for meal prep, and leftovers can be easily stored and enjoyed later. Whether you’re serving them alongside a simple roast chicken or a luxurious braised lamb, Boulangere Potatoes will always be a crowd-pleaser, adding warmth and flavor to any meal.

FAQs

What Are Boulangère Potatoes?

Boulangère potatoes are a French dish made by layering thinly sliced potatoes with onions, garlic, and stock, typically baked in the oven. The dish is known for its savory flavor, with the potatoes absorbing the flavors of the stock and caramelized onions.

How Does Gordon Ramsay Make Boulangère Potatoes?

Gordon Ramsay’s recipe involves thinly slicing potatoes, sautéing onions and garlic, layering the potatoes with the onion mixture, and then pouring over some hot chicken stock. The dish is baked in the oven until golden and tender.

What Type Of Potatoes Are Best For Boulangère Potatoes?

For Boulangère potatoes, waxy potatoes such as Yukon Gold or Charlotte potatoes are recommended because they hold their shape well during baking and have a creamy texture.

Can I Make Boulangère Potatoes In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Assemble the potatoes, cover them, and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. When ready, bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to ensure they’re fully cooked.

What Kind Of Stock Should I Use For Boulangère Potatoes?

Chicken stock is typically used for a rich and savory flavor, but vegetable stock can be used as a vegetarian alternative. Gordon Ramsay suggests using homemade or high-quality store-bought stock for the best results.

Can I Add Cheese To Boulangère Potatoes?

While traditional Boulangère potatoes don’t include cheese, you can certainly add grated cheese, like Gruyère or Parmesan, on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.

How Long Should I Bake Boulangère Potatoes?

Boulangère potatoes are typically baked for about 1 hour at 180°C (350°F) until they are golden on top and tender throughout. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of your potato slices and your oven.

What Should I Serve With Boulangère Potatoes?

Boulangère potatoes are a great side dish for roast meats, such as lamb, beef, or chicken. They also pair well with other vegetables or a simple green salad.

Can I Use Pre-sliced Potatoes For Boulangère Potatoes?

While pre-sliced potatoes can be used for convenience, slicing your own potatoes is recommended to ensure uniform thickness for even cooking and optimal texture.

Why Do My Boulangère Potatoes Turn Out Soggy?

Soggy Boulangère potatoes may be caused by using too much stock, not allowing enough time for the stock to absorb, or not baking the dish long enough. To avoid this, ensure the potatoes are layered properly and bake the dish long enough for the top to crisp up.