Are you a potato lover who is watching their calorie intake? Look no further than 1/2 cup packaged (28 g) Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes! With just 90 Calories per serving, you can enjoy the creamy and cheesy goodness of au gratin potatoes without busting your daily caloric budget.
But it's not just about the Calories. Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes also provide a good source of carbohydrates and a small amount of Protein. Additionally, they contain essential Vitamins and Minerals like vitamin C and potassium.
In this article, we'll go over everything you need to know about Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes - from their nutritional content to tips on how to prepare them.
What are Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes?
Au gratin potatoes are a popular side dish made by layering sliced potatoes in a baking dish and topping them with a creamy sauce and cheese before baking in the oven. Cheesy and indulgent, au gratin potatoes are a comfort food favorite. While the traditional recipe calls for heavy cream and butter, you can make a lighter version using low-Fat milk or cream and reduced-fat cheese. Au gratin potatoes are often served at holiday meals or special occasions, but they can also be a delicious side for weeknight dinners.
Calories in Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes
As mentioned earlier, 1/2 cup of packaged (28 g) Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes contains 90 Calories. If you're watching your calorie intake, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes. You can always pair a smaller portion of au gratin potatoes with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad to keep things balanced.
Fat in Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes
A 1/2 cup serving of packaged (28 g) Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes contains 5 grams of Fat, with 3 grams of saturated fat. If you're looking to reduce the fat content, you can try using reduced-fat cheese or using a lower-fat milk for the sauce.
Carbs in Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes
A 1/2 cup serving of packaged (28 g) Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes contains 11 grams of carbohydrates, with 1 gram of fiber and 2 grams of sugar. While carbohydrates are an important part of a balanced diet, it's important to watch portion sizes if you're watching your carb intake. You can pair a smaller portion of au gratin potatoes with a Protein source like chicken or salmon to create a well-rounded meal.
Protein in Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes
A 1/2 cup serving of packaged (28 g) Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes contains 2 grams of Protein. While this isn't a significant amount of protein, you can boost the protein content of your meal by pairing the potatoes with a protein-rich side like grilled chicken or tofu.
Vitamins and Minerals in Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes
Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, a nutrient that supports a Healthy immune system and is important for healthy skin. Additionally, potatoes are a good source of potassium, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure. While these nutrients aren't present in large amounts, every little bit counts when it comes to a healthy diet.
Are Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes Healthy?
Like many foods, the answer isn't black and white. While au gratin potatoes provide some essential nutrients like vitamin C and potassium, they can also be high in Calories and Fat. If you're looking to enjoy them as part of a Healthy diet, it's important to watch portion sizes and pair them with a variety of other nutrient-rich foods like vegetables, lean Proteins, and whole grains.
Ways to Enjoy Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes
Pair them with roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal. Add in some Protein by serving alongside grilled chicken, tofu, or fish. As a side dish, au gratin potatoes can be a comforting addition to a holiday meal or a cozy weeknight dinner.
How to Prepare Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice your potatoes into thin, even pieces (a mandoline can make this easier). Layer the potatoes in a baking dish and pour over your sauce - this can be a mixture of milk or cream, cheese, butter, and garlic.
Alternatives to Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes
Mashed sweet potatoes - these are naturally sweet and lower in Calories than traditional mashed potatoes. Roasted potatoes - roasting potatoes with herbs and spices adds flavor without added Fat and calories. Cauliflower gratin - swapping out potatoes for cauliflower can create a lower-carb version of this comfort food classic.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes
1. What are Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes?
Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes are a popular dish made from thinly sliced or cubed potatoes that are baked with a creamy cheese sauce. The dish is typically topped with breadcrumbs or cheese for a crispy finish.
2. How many Calories are in 1/2 cup of packaged (28 g) Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes?
1/2 cup of packaged (28 g) Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes contains 90 calories.
3. Are Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes Healthy?
Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes tend to be high in calories, saturated Fat, and sodium, which can be unhealthy if consumed in excess. However, they can be made healthier by using reduced-fat cheese, low-sodium broth, and adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach to the dish.
4. How do I prepare Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes?
To prepare Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes, slice or cube potatoes and cook until partially tender. Prepare a cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and then adding milk and cheese. Layer the potatoes and cheese sauce in a baking dish and bake until bubbly and golden brown.
5. What are some variations of Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes?
Au Gratin Cheesy Potatoes can be made with a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, gruyere, or parmesan. They can also be made with sliced sweet potatoes or a combination of root vegetables like turnips and carrots. Additional flavors like garlic, thyme, or bacon can also be added for extra depth of flavor.