Grilled Kartoffelauflauf on the Arteflame Grill

Kartoffelauflauf, or German potato casserole, is a comforting dish made with layers of tender potatoes, a rich cream sauce, and melted cheese. When prepared on the Arteflame grill, the dish gets an extra smoky flavor, and the potatoes turn beautifully golden with a crispy top. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners or as a hearty side dish for any grill party.

Ingredients

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp butter (for grilling)
1 cup Gruyère or Emmental cheese, grated
1/2 cup crispy bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

Start by lighting your Arteflame grill. Soak three paper napkins in vegetable oil and place them at the base of the grill. Stack firewood on top and light it up. Let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop is hot and ready.

2. Prepare the Casserole Base

In a large bowl, mix the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Set aside. Thinly slice the potatoes and finely chop the onion.

3. Assemble the Kartoffelauflauf

On the flat cooktop, melt 3 tbsp of butter. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes directly on the flat cooktop, starting from the outer edges and working inward where the heat is less intense. Spread the chopped onions evenly over the potatoes. Pour the cream mixture over the potatoes, making sure they’re fully coated in the creamy sauce.

4. Grill the Kartoffelauflauf

Let the casserole cook slowly on the outer section of the grill, where the heat is lower, for about 15-20 minutes. The potatoes should soften as they absorb the creamy mixture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Add Cheese and Bacon (Optional)

Once the potatoes are nearly tender, sprinkle the grated cheese and crumbled bacon (if using) over the top. Move the casserole toward the center of the grill, closer to the heat, so the cheese can melt and become golden and bubbly. Grill for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the top is crisp and browned.

6. Serve

Once the cheese has melted and turned golden, remove the Kartoffelauflauf from the grill using a spatula. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Grilled Kartoffelauflauf

Use a mandoline: For even slices of potatoes, which will cook more consistently.
Control the heat: Keep the casserole on the cooler edges of the grill to prevent burning and achieve slow, even cooking.
Customize the recipe: Add layers of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for a veggie-packed version.

Conclusion

Grilled Kartoffelauflauf on the Arteflame grill is a delicious, hearty dish that combines creamy, cheesy potatoes with a hint of smokiness from the fire. This German potato casserole is sure to become a favorite for outdoor gatherings, offering comfort and flavor in every bite.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetable Kartoffelauflauf

Layer in zucchini slices, mushrooms, or spinach between the potatoes for a more veggie-rich casserole.

2. Cheddar and Bacon Kartoffelauflauf

Replace Gruyère with sharp cheddar and add crispy bacon for a more American-style twist on this German classic.

3. Vegan Kartoffelauflauf

Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy, and substitute the cheese with vegan cheese for a plant-based version.

4. Spicy Kartoffelauflauf

Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cream mixture for a spicy kick.

5. Herb-Infused Kartoffelauflauf

Mix fresh thyme or rosemary into the cream mixture for an aromatic, herbaceous flavor.

Best Pairings

Grilled Sausages: Serve the Kartoffelauflauf alongside grilled sausages like bratwurst for a full German-inspired meal.
Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of grilled or roasted vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers for a well-rounded meal.