Hairy Bikers’ Dauphinoise Potatoes Recipe

Dauphinoise potatoes, a classic French dish hailing from the Dauphiné region in southeastern France, are a sublime expression of how simple ingredients can be transformed into comfort food royalty. The Hairy Bikers – Si King and Dave Myers – bring their unique, hearty British twist to this continental classic. Known for their love of bold flavours and satisfying, rustic fare, their version of dauphinoise potatoes amplifies the traditional dish with a luxurious creaminess, subtle garlic warmth, and a perfectly golden, bubbling top layer of cheese.

Unlike potato gratin, which sometimes includes flour or other thickeners, dauphinoise relies solely on the starch from the potatoes and the richness of cream to create its signature silky texture. The Hairy Bikers’ take often includes a cheese element-Gruyère or mature cheddar-to build that deeply savoury profile that’s impossible to resist.

Hairy Bikers’ Dauphinoise Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To craft this creamy, decadent dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 1.2 kg (about 2.5 lbs) of floury potatoes (e.g., Maris Piper or King Edward)
• 300 ml double cream
• 300 ml full-fat milk
• 2-3 garlic cloves, finely minced or crushed
• 100 g Gruyère cheese, grated (optional but highly recommended)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• A grating of fresh nutmeg (optional, but adds depth)
• A knob of butter (for greasing the dish)

These ingredients may be humble, but in the right proportions and preparation, they deliver something truly elegant and heartwarming.

Equipment Needed

No fancy tools required-just good kitchen basics:

• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer (for evenly thin potato slices)
• Large saucepan (to warm cream, milk, and garlic)
• Oven-safe baking dish (ceramic or cast iron works well)
• Mixing spoon or silicone spatula
• Aluminium foil (for covering part-way through baking)
• Oven preheated to 160°C (fan) or 180°C (conventional)

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Dauphinoise Potatoes

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly (about 2-3 mm thick). Use a mandoline slicer if you want uniform slices, which helps with even cooking.

Step 2: Infuse the Cream

In a large saucepan, pour in the cream and milk. Add the crushed garlic and a pinch of salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Gently heat over medium-low until it begins to steam but not boil. This infuses the liquid with the aromatics.

Step 3: Layer the Dish

Butter the base and sides of your baking dish. Start layering the potatoes in overlapping rows.

After each layer, sprinkle a little salt, pepper, and a handful of grated cheese if using. Continue layering until you run out of potatoes.

Step 4: Pour and Settle

Carefully pour the warm cream mixture over the potatoes. Press down gently with a spatula to settle the layers and allow the creamy liquid to seep between.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and place in the oven. Bake for about 45 minutes covered. Remove the foil, top with the rest of the cheese, and bake uncovered for another 30-40 minutes until the top is deeply golden and bubbling.

Step 6: Rest

Let the dish rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice cleanly.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Potato Type Matters: Floury potatoes like Maris Piper yield a soft, fluffy texture that melds beautifully with cream.
• Don’t Rush the Infusion: Gently warming the cream with garlic allows the flavours to bloom fully without overpowering the dish.
• Keep It Thin: The thinner the slices, the more even and tender your layers will be. Uneven slices may result in undercooked pockets.
• Resting is Key: Resist the urge to serve it piping hot. Resting allows the starch and cream to set into a beautiful, sliceable consistency.
• Cheese Variety: While Gruyère is classic, feel free to experiment with a mix of cheeses-Parmesan adds sharpness, while a hint of blue cheese offers bold, earthy tones.

Hairy Bikers’ Dauphinoise Potatoes embody the beauty of rustic European cooking filtered through a British soul. It’s a dish that speaks of Sunday roasts, festive tables, and the soothing hush that follows a first bite of something truly sumptuous. With creamy layers, golden edges, and a perfume of garlic and nutmeg in the air, this recipe isn’t just food-it’s culinary nostalgia, love, and indulgence in every forkful.

So preheat that oven, pour a glass of wine, and lose yourself in the alchemy of cream, potato, and a little bit of kitchen magic.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Dauphinoise Potatoes Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Dauphinoise Potatoes recipe is already a masterpiece of creamy, garlicky decadence.

But what if you want to experiment a little without straying too far from the comforting soul of the dish?

Here are some inspired yet simple twists that add dimension, balance, or a bold new flair to this French classic:

1. Gruyère Glory
   While the original relies on double cream and perhaps a touch of nutmeg, adding grated Gruyère cheese between the layers adds nutty complexity and a gorgeous golden crust. This cheese melts beautifully and enhances the umami depth of the dish.

2. Thyme & Shallots Infusion
   Infuse the cream with shallots and a sprig of thyme before pouring it over the potatoes. Sauté the shallots until translucent, simmer in cream, then strain. The resulting mixture gives the dish a sweet, earthy fragrance and a subtle herbal note.

3. Truffle Upgrade
   For a luxurious version, shave a bit of black truffle or drizzle with truffle oil just before serving. The earthiness of truffle pairs beautifully with the buttery potatoes and creamy sauce, elevating it to fine-dining territory.

4. Root Vegetable Remix
   Try swapping out a portion of the potatoes for thin slices of parsnip, sweet potato, or celeriac. This creates a more dynamic flavor profile with a hint of sweetness and a more colorful presentation.

5. Vegan Transformation
   Swap out dairy for full-fat coconut milk and a splash of oat cream, and use nutritional yeast, garlic, and a pinch of nutmeg to replicate the savory richness. Use a plant-based cheese for the topping. It’s indulgent and satisfying, even without the cream and butter.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

If you’ve made a big batch (who can resist?) and have leftovers, don’t worry-Dauphinoise Potatoes store surprisingly well with a few key tips:

1. Cool It Right
   Allow the dish to cool completely at room temperature before storing. Placing it in the fridge while still hot can create condensation, leading to soggy potatoes and potential spoilage.

2. Store in Airtight Containers
   Cut the leftover portion into squares or slices and place in a shallow, airtight container. This prevents it from absorbing other fridge odors and preserves the creamy texture.

3. Refrigeration Life Span
   Stored properly, Dauphinoise Potatoes will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Beyond that, the dairy may separate or develop off-flavors.

4. Freezing Tips
   Yes, you can freeze Dauphinoise!

   Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

5. Reheating
   To reheat, cover loosely with foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes until bubbling hot. For a crispy top, uncover for the final 5-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible-it can turn the texture gummy.

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Dauphinoise Potatoes?

This indulgent dish is rich and creamy, so pairing it with contrasting textures and flavors will bring balance and enhance your overall meal. Here are some stellar options:

1. Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
   The robust, gamey flavor of lamb pairs effortlessly with the creamy potatoes. Add a rosemary and mustard crust for contrast.

2. Roast Chicken with Lemon & Garlic
   A golden roast chicken with citrusy notes provides a light, aromatic counterpoint to the richness of the Dauphinoise.

3. Green Beans Almondine
   A bright, crisp side of sautéed green beans with toasted almonds cuts through the creaminess and adds texture and freshness.

4. Buttered Kale or Cavolo Nero
   Sautéed leafy greens with garlic provide a hearty but healthy accompaniment, their slight bitterness tempering the indulgence of the potatoes.

5. A Simple Leafy Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette
   When in doubt, a peppery arugula salad dressed with a sharp vinaigrette helps reset the palate and complements the creamy base.

Conclusion

Hairy Bikers’ Dauphinoise Potatoes is a dish that marries simplicity with sophistication. With just a few thoughtful additions or tweaks-from fragrant herbs to flavorful cheeses-you can personalize the experience to suit any occasion.

Store it with care and pair it wisely, and this dish transforms into a reliable centerpiece or stunning side. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a show-stopping holiday feast, Dauphinoise Potatoes is a timeless classic worth revisiting-and reinventing-again and again.

FAQs

What Makes The Hairy Bikers’ Dauphinoise Potatoes Recipe Unique?

The Hairy Bikers’ Dauphinoise Potatoes recipe stands out due to its rich and indulgent combination of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce with garlic, butter, and cheese. The recipe is known for its balanced flavor, where the smooth creaminess is offset by the subtle richness of garlic and cheese.

Their version uses a mix of cheeses to create a perfect, golden, bubbly topping that adds texture and flavor. The added touch of nutmeg also enhances the depth of the dish.

Can I Make Hairy Bikers’ Dauphinoise Potatoes In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare Hairy Bikers’ Dauphinoise Potatoes in advance. After assembling the dish, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

If you plan to do this, it’s recommended to cover the dish tightly with foil to prevent the potatoes from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven. You may need to extend the cooking time slightly if it’s chilled.

What Is The Best Way To Store Leftover Hairy Bikers’ Dauphinoise Potatoes?

To store leftover Hairy Bikers’ Dauphinoise Potatoes, allow the dish to cool completely, then cover it with an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, it’s best to use the oven for a crispy texture, though you can microwave it if you’re in a hurry. To reheat in the oven, place the leftovers in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crisped on top.