Before diving into the heart of this delightful dish, let’s talk about what pairs seamlessly with tartiflette. Ideally, you want to complement the creaminess of the cheese and the saltiness of the bacon without overwhelming the palette.
- Refreshing Green Salad: Think arugula or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette. This salad acts as the perfect counterpoint to the richness of the tartiflette.
- Crusty Baguette: A good French baguette is not just a side; it becomes a vessel for scooping up the cheesy goodness. It adds texture and allows you to savor every bit.
- Light White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay elevates the meal. The acidity cuts through the richness while enhancing the dish’s flavors.
- Pickles or Cornichons: A plate of tangy pickles brings a delightful crunch. Their acidity brings a bright note that can balance the heavier flavors.
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Let me tell you about tartiflette—a dish that transports you to the snowy slopes of the French Alps without leaving your kitchen. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I appreciate food that is as nourishing as it is comforting.
Tartiflette is one of those dishes. Picture this: golden crisp potatoes mingling with velvety Reblochon cheese, crispy bacon, and sweet onions. Each layer brings warmth and satisfaction.
I remember the first time I had it on a ski trip. Nestled by a roaring fire, the simplicity of the ingredients belied their incredible flavors. It wasn’t just a meal; it was an experience. Now, I want to share that experience with you.
What is the Tartiflette Recipe?
Tartiflette is a traditional Savoyard dish rooted in French alpine cuisine. Its marriage of simple ingredients creates something utterly comforting. The main players are potatoes, Reblochon cheese, cream, onions, and lardons (bacon).
The dish is layered, baked until bubbling, and served hot, making it the perfect comfort food, especially in colder weather. If you haven’t tried it yet, don’t wait long—this recipe deserves a spot on your dinner table.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe for tartiflette is not just a compilation of ingredients; it’s a well-thought-out approach that ensures great taste. Here’s why you can trust this method:
- Bold flavors: The combination of smoky bacon, creamy cheese, and sweet onions creates a delightful, layered flavor profile. The richness of the Reblochon cheese pairs perfectly with the salty bites of bacon, while the onions add a subtle sweetness that melds beautifully in the baking process.
- Comforting texture: Layering the ingredients results in a complexity of textures. We have the softness of the cooked potatoes, the creaminess from the cheese, and a slight crunch from the golden-browned top. Every bite offers something different.
- Easy assembly: Even novice cooks can create this dish with minimal fuss. The steps are logical, and the ingredients are easy to find, making it a perfect choice for home cooks who want an impressive dish without extensive cooking skills.
- Make-Ahead Friendliness: You can prepare tartiflette ahead of time and simply bake when ready to serve. This makes it an ideal choice for gatherings or busy weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Tartiflette Recipe
To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- ¾ cup crème fraîche or full-fat sour cream
- 1 (16-ounce) wheel of ripe Reblochon cheese (or similar washed-rind cheese like Taleggio or Fontina)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted European-style butter
- ½ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 12 ounces thick-cut smoked bacon, chopped into ½-inch pieces
- 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into thick rounds
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced into half-moons
- ½ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
How To Make Tartiflette?
Let’s break down the recipe into manageable steps. Follow these detailed instructions, and you’ll have a tartiflette worthy of any dinner table.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s important to get that oven nice and hot because we want to achieve a perfect, bubbling crust. Peel the russet potatoes and slice them into thick rounds.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until it’s crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, but be sure to leave the rendered fat in the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the sliced onions. Stir frequently for about 10-15 minutes or until they become caramelized and softened. You’ll want them to turn a nice golden color. Add minced garlic and thyme during the last minute of cooking.
Step 4: Boil the Potatoes
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sliced potatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes. They should be just tender but not fully cooked. Once done, drain and set aside.
Step 5: Layer the Ingredients
In a large baking dish, layer half of the potatoes at the bottom. Sprinkle half of the cooked bacon and half of the onion mixture on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, bacon, and onions.
Step 6: Add the Cream and Cheese
In a mixing bowl, combine the crème fraîche (or sour cream) with the white wine, pepper, and salt. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients.
Next, cut the Reblochon cheese in half horizontally and place it on top of the dish, rind side up.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and allow it to bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
Step 8: Serve
Once baked, take tartiflette out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve hot, either by scooping straight from the dish or by plating it up with a fresh green salad.
Tips for an Incredible Tartiflette
To make your tartiflette even better, here are some handy tips:
- Choose the right cheese: If you can’t find Reblochon, go for other washed-rind cheeses like Tallegio or Fontina for similar creaminess.
- Potato variety matters: Use russet potatoes for their starchy texture, which holds up well in baking and provides that desired fluffiness.
- Don’t skip the bacon: Quality matters! Thick-cut smoked bacon lends the best flavor to the dish.
- Add more veggies: For an extra veggie boost, add mushrooms or leeks to the onion mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Herbs for freshness: Fresh herbs can lighten up the dish. Consider adding a sprinkle of parsley or chives just before serving.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 650
- Protein: 20g
- Total Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
How to Store the Leftovers?
Leftover tartiflette can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave, or for a better texture, warm it in the oven until heated through.
Recommended Side Dishes for Tartiflette
Here are some fantastic side dishes to pair with your tartiflette:
- Arugula Salad: The peppery bite of arugula complements the creaminess. Toss with a light lemon vinaigrette to add freshness.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: They add another layer of flavor. When roasted, their nuttiness contrasts beautifully with tartiflette.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a pop of color and a fresh contrast. It’s easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and acidity of a simple coleslaw can balance the richness of tartiflette.
Substitutes for Ingredients
If you run out of something or prefer alternatives, here are some options:
- Crème fraîche: Greek yogurt can work in a pinch. It’s lower in fat and still adds creaminess.
- Reblochon: Fontina or Brie can easily take its place if you’re in a bind. Both have similar melting qualities.
- White wine: Chicken or vegetable broth can substitute if you’re avoiding alcohol. Just be sure to adjust seasoning.
- Potatoes: If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using sweet potatoes, though this will slightly change the dish’s traditional flavor profile.
Tartiflette Recipe Potato Cheese Reblochon Bacon Recipe
Equipment
- Pot, Bowl
Ingredients
- ¾ cup crème fraîche or full-fat sour cream
- 1 16-ounce wheel of ripe Reblochon cheese (or similar washed-rind cheese like Taleggio or Fontina)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted European-style butter
- ½ cup dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
- 12 ounces thick-cut smoked bacon chopped into ½-inch pieces
- 3 pounds russet potatoes peeled and cut into thick rounds
- 1 small clove garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 large yellow onions thinly sliced into half-moons
- ½ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper or to taste
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt or to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s important to get that oven nice and hot because we want to achieve a perfect, bubbling crust. Peel the russet potatoes and slice them into thick rounds.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until it’s crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, but be sure to leave the rendered fat in the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
- In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the sliced onions. Stir frequently for about 10-15 minutes or until they become caramelized and softened. You’ll want them to turn a nice golden color. Add minced garlic and thyme during the last minute of cooking.
Step 4: Boil the Potatoes
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sliced potatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes. They should be just tender but not fully cooked. Once done, drain and set aside.
Step 5: Layer the Ingredients
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the potatoes at the bottom. Sprinkle half of the cooked bacon and half of the onion mixture on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, bacon, and onions.
Step 6: Add the Cream and Cheese
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crème fraîche (or sour cream) with the white wine, pepper, and salt. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Next, cut the Reblochon cheese in half horizontally and place it on top of the dish, rind side up.
Step 7: Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and allow it to bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
Step 8: Serve
- Once baked, take tartiflette out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve hot, either by scooping straight from the dish or by plating it up with a fresh green salad.
Notes
- Choose the right cheese: If you can’t find Reblochon, go for other washed-rind cheeses like Tallegio or Fontina for similar creaminess.
- Potato variety matters: Use russet potatoes for their starchy texture, which holds up well in baking and provides that desired fluffiness.
- Don’t skip the bacon: Quality matters! Thick-cut smoked bacon lends the best flavor to the dish.
- Add more veggies: For an extra veggie boost, add mushrooms or leeks to the onion mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Herbs for freshness: Fresh herbs can lighten up the dish. Consider adding a sprinkle of parsley or chives just before serving.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make tartiflette vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the bacon with mushrooms or smoked tofu for a smoky flavor without meat. You can also add other vegetables to enhance the dish.
Q: How long does it take to prepare tartiflette?
On average, the total preparation and cooking time is about 1 hour, with 30 minutes for prep and 30 minutes of cooking.
Q: Can I freeze tartiflette?
Yes! You can freeze it before baking or after cooking. Be sure to use an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake.
Q: What’s the best way to serve tartiflette?
Serve it straight from the baking dish alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. This makes it casual and inviting.
Q: Is tartiflette suitable for large gatherings?
Yes! It’s an excellent dish for gatherings since it can be made in larger quantities and baked in a big dish, making serving easy.
Conclusion
Creating a delicious tartiflette is a journey into flavors that feels comforting and indulgent. As someone who enjoys cooking, I can assure you that this dish has a way of making everyone feel at home. Invite friends, fire up the oven, and let the rich aroma fill your kitchen.
With layers of creamy cheese, soft potatoes, and crispy bacon, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything more satisfying after a long day. Remember to pair it with a bubbly salad and some crusty bread, and you have an evening that sings of warmth and joy. Enjoy every bite, and keep this recipe close—it’s bound to become a favorite!
