Indulge in the ultimate comfort food: a creamy, cheesy potato and mushroom gratin. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
INGREDIENTS
3-4 tbsp unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing the dish)
16 oz mushrooms, thinly sliced (see note)
1 small onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup full-fat sour cream
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp pepper
Pinch of nutmeg
1/3 cup milk
2 tbsp flour
2 1/2 lbs russet potatoes (see note)
6 oz Gruyère cheese, shredded
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat the oven to 375°F and butter a large 3-quart casserole dish.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat until it begins to foam. Add the mushrooms and cook until lightly browned and the moisture has evaporated. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring often, for 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then transfer to a clean bowl.
In the same skillet, melt another 1-2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, season with a pinch of salt, and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until they begin to soften.
While the mushrooms and onions are cooking, whisk together the heavy cream, sour cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. Add this mixture to the sour cream blend and whisk until well combined. Set aside the grated Gruyère cheese.
Prepare the potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes, then pat them dry with a paper towel. Layer half of the potato slices in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Top with half of the sautéed mushrooms and onions, followed by half of the shredded cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, mushrooms, and cheese.
Pour the cream mixture evenly over the layered ingredients. Gently shake the pan to even everything out. Cover the dish and bake for 45-60 minutes, depending on the thickness of the potato slices (check at 45 minutes). The potatoes should be just tender when pierced with a fork.
After 45-60 minutes, uncover the dish and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are fully cooked.
Remove from the oven and cover with foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions.
NOTES
The mushrooms, onions, and cream sauce can be prepared ahead of time, up to a day in advance. Then, you just need to slice the potatoes, assemble, and bake.
Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe, though red potatoes can be used as well with good results.
The covered cooking time may vary depending on how thin you slice the potatoes. Hand-slicing typically requires closer to 60 minutes of covered baking.
A combination of cremini and white mushrooms works wonderfully, but you can use either variety on its own.
DATE NIGHT BEAUTY TIPS TO ATTRACT ALL EYES
Ditch the tired notion of beauty routines meant to turn heads of strangers across the room. Date night is about celebrating a special connection, and your radiance should reflect that! Let’s explore some beauty tips that will turn up your confidence and leave your date utterly smitten. We’ll focus on a pre-date prep that enhances your natural glow, makeup that flatters your features, and overall touches that make you feel gorgeous from the inside out. So get ready to captivate your date, not the entire room!
6 BASIC PREPARATION STEPS FOR ACHIEVING AN ATTRACTIVE LOOK
GET DATE NIGHT READY WITH A GLOWING COMPLEXION
Time to get your beautiful skin ready to shine! A healthy glow is the perfect base for a stunning look. First, wash your face gently to get rid of any dirt or oil. Then, use a scrub to buff away dry, dead skin cells. This will make your skin smoother and brighter. Exfoliating is super important because it helps your makeup go on easier and last longer – win win!
UNLEASH YOUR EYE BEAUTY
Let’s make your eyes, those gorgeous windows to your soul, truly shine! To fight any puffiness or dark circles (we’ve all been there!), dab on a light, moisturizing eye cream. Next, use a nude or light-colored eyeshadow primer on your lids. This acts like a base for your makeup, making it go on smoother and last longer.
Now for the fun part – color time! While smoky eyes are classic for a date night, there are many ways to go. Here’s one option: blend a pretty, shimmery eyeshadow into your crease. Then, use a slightly darker shade to add definition in the outer corners of your eyes. Finish with a few coats of mascara that plumps up your lashes. Boom! You’ve got gorgeous, eye-catching eyes that will definitely grab your date’s attention.
CREATE A KISS-READY SMILE
Let’s get those lips kiss-ready! Soft, smooth lips are a must-have for any date night. Before you put on any lipstick or gloss, gently buff your lips with a soft toothbrush or a scrub made with sugar. This will get rid of any dry skin flakes and make your lipstick go on smoother and last longer.
Next, line your lips with a pencil that matches your lipstick color (or is close to your natural lip color). This helps your lips look more defined and keeps your lipstick from bleeding outside the lines. Now for the fun part! Pick your favorite lipstick – a creamy one works well. Apply it in the center of your lips and blend it outwards. Want some extra sparkle? Dab a little gloss in the center of your lips. And there you have it – kissable lips that are sure to impress your date!
STYLE YOUR HAIR
Now that your makeup is on point, let’s turn our attention to creating a date-night hairstyle that complements your overall look. Remember, the key is to feel confident and beautiful, so choose a style that flatters your hair type and makes you feel amazing. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Classic and Effortless: For a timeless look, try sleek straight hair with a smooth blowout. You can add a center or side part for a touch of personality.
Romantic Curls: Soft, bouncy curls are always a hit. Use a curling iron or braid damp hair overnight for natural-looking waves.
Half-Up Hairstyles: Half-up styles are a great way to keep your hair out of your face while still showing off its length. Try a simple twist or braid along the crown, or a messy bun for a relaxed vibe.
Polished Ponytail: A high ponytail is a chic and sophisticated option. For a more relaxed feel, try a low ponytail with some wispy strands framing your face.
Embrace Your Natural Texture: If you have naturally curly or wavy hair, rock your beautiful texture! Apply a leave-in conditioner to control frizz and enhance your natural bounce.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to accessorize! Headbands, barrettes, and clips can add a touch of personality and help keep your style in place.
SET MAKEUP FOR LONG-LASTING WEAR
All that work deserves to stay flawless throughout your date night! To lock in your stunning look, here’s the secret to long-lasting makeup.
First, grab a translucent powder and dust it lightly over your entire face, focusing on your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) where shine tends to show up. This mattifies your skin and absorbs oil throughout the night.
Next, instead of a heavy setting spray, use a hydrating one. This will “melt” your makeup together for a natural, glowy finish that lasts.
Finally, toss some blotting papers, powder, and your favorite lipstick in your purse. With these touch-up essentials, you can refresh your look throughout the night, staying picture-perfect from that first sip to the last bite of dessert.
EXPLORE MORE VERSATILE ACCESSORIES
The final touch! Now it’s time to accessorize and turn your date night into a masterpiece. Accessories are like decorations on your cupcake – they add personality and polish.
First, choose an item that reflects both your outfit and your emotions. A chunky bracelet, eye-catching earrings or a sparkling cocktail ring can instantly elevate your look. Want more sophistication? Add a sleek belt to accentuate your waist or a chic clutch to complete the outfit.
But that’s not all! Don’t forget the power of fragrance. A little bit of your favorite scent can be the most unforgettable accessory. Choose a perfume that makes you feel confident and seductive, whether it’s a timeless floral scent or a mysterious musk blend. If possible, consider best-selling women’s perfumes. Trust me, your date will remember your charm long after the night is over.
6 DATE NIGHT LOOKS YOU MIGHT LIKE
TO A FIRST DATE
Here’s a breakdown of date-night makeup looks that are perfect for a first date, keeping in mind that you want to enhance your natural beauty and feel confident:
The Naturally Flawless Look:
Focus on a fresh, even base: Apply a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturizer that matches your skin tone. Conceal any under-eye circles or blemishes for a polished look.
Soft and romantic: Keep your blush and eyeshadow soft and romantic. Opt for neutral or rosy tones that complement your skin tone and eye color. A light wash of shimmery eyeshadow adds a touch of sparkle without being overpowering.
Define your eyes: Line your upper lash line with a thin line of brown or dark gray eyeliner for a softer definition. Brown is less harsh than black, especially for daytime dates. Finish with a lengthening mascara to enhance your lashes.
Kissable lips: Choose a lipstick or gloss in a flattering shade. Keep it light and natural for daytime dates with a nude or pink shade. Save bold colors for a later date when you’re more comfortable with your date.
The Effortlessly Glam Look:
Flawless with a touch of coverage: Create a flawless base with a medium-coverage foundation and concealer. Apply a cool-toned contour for a subtle sculpted look.
Classic smokey eye: For the eyes, opt for a soft smokey eye in neutral brown or gray shades. Blend the colors seamlessly for a sophisticated look.
Dramatic lashes: Line your upper lash line with a black eyeliner pencil or gel and apply a volumizing mascara for dramatic lashes.
Timeless touch: Finish with a classic red lip for a timeless touch of glamour.
TO AN EXCURSION
Glowing skin and effortless beauty are key for an adventure-filled date night! Since you’ll be on the move, prioritize makeup that stays put and feels comfortable. Here’s how to achieve this:
Light and Lasting: Ditch the heavy foundation and opt for a lightweight, long-wearing tinted moisturizer. It evens out your skin tone without feeling cakey, perfect for all that activity.
Bronzed and Beautiful: A touch of bronzer adds warmth and dimension to your face. Focus on applying it to your forehead, cheeks, and jawline for a natural sun-kissed look.
Defined Yet Simple: For your eyes, choose neutral eyeshadow shades in brown or taupe. These define your eyes without being too dramatic, ideal for all the sights you’ll see. A quick swipe of brown or black eyeliner and a coat of lengthening mascara will complete your eye look.
Pop of Color (Optional): Feeling playful? Add a pop of color with a waterproof cream blush on your cheeks and apples of your face. This will add a touch of fun and stay put during your adventure.
Kiss-Proof Pout: For your lips, choose a comfortable, long-lasting lip tint in a rosy or nude shade. This ensures your lips stay colorful throughout your excursion, whether you’re grabbing a bite to eat or sharing a kiss at the peak of a hike.
TO A MUSEUM
Let’s create a museum date night makeup look that’s both cultured and captivating! Since museums often involve a lot of walking and looking up at art, prioritize comfort and long-wear.
Here’s the key:
Flawless Base: Start with a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturizer that evens your skin tone. Apply a touch of concealer to brighten under-eye circles or blemishes.
Bronzed Beauty: A touch of bronzer adds warmth and dimension to your face. Focus on applying it to your forehead, cheeks, and jawline for a natural sun-kissed look.
Defined Eyes: For the eyes, choose neutral eyeshadow shades in brown or taupe. This adds definition without being overly dramatic. A thin line of brown or black eyeliner along your upper lash line and a coat of lengthening mascara will complete your eye look.
Pop of Color: Want a touch of personality? Add a pop of color with a vibrant eyeshadow shade on your lower lash line – a teal or emerald green would complement a classic brown eye look beautifully. Just keep the application light and blend it softly.
Kissable Lips: For your lips, choose a comfortable, long-lasting lipstick or lip tint in a rosy or nude shade. This will stay put throughout your museum adventure and ensure you look polished for any post-museum dinner plans.
TO GO DANCING
Dancing the night away with your date? Let’s create a makeup look that stays put! Since you’ll be sweating on the dance floor, use long-lasting products that feel comfortable.
Smooth Start: Begin with a primer to make your makeup last longer. Pick a mattifying one to keep shine away.
Flawless Base: Apply a lightweight, long-wearing foundation that matches your skin tone. Avoid heavy layers to let your skin breathe.
Pop of Color: Use neutral or rosy blush and eyeshadow that match your outfit. A bit of shimmer on your lids will catch the light when you move.
Defined Eyes: Line your upper lash line with waterproof eyeliner. Finish with volumizing mascara that won’t smudge or flake.
Lasting Lips: Choose a liquid lipstick or lip stain in a bold or fun shade. These last longer and stay put even with drinks or kisses.
TO THE BEACH
Beach breezes and salty air call for a makeup look that’s both beach-proof and beautiful! Since you’ll be outdoors and soaking up the sun, focus on waterproof formulas and a light, natural look. Here’s your beach date night makeup guide:
Shine Under Control: Start with a primer specifically designed for oily skin or mattifying primer to control shine throughout the night.
Light and Lasting: Apply a lightweight, waterproof foundation that matches your skin tone. Skip the heavy layers – you want your skin to breathe and feel comfortable under the sun.
Sun-Kissed Glow: Enhance your natural radiance with a touch of bronzer on your forehead, cheeks, and jawline. Opt for cream bronzer for a dewy finish that blends seamlessly.
Waterproof Eyes: For your eyes, keep things simple with waterproof eyeshadow in neutral or shimmery shades. Line your upper lash line with a waterproof eyeliner pencil or gel, and finish with waterproof mascara to prevent smudging from the beach elements.
Beach-Ready Lips: Skip the heavy lipstick and opt for a tinted lip balm or a waterproof lip gloss in a sheer pink or coral shade. This will add a hint of color while keeping your lips hydrated and kissable.
TO A ROMANTIC DINNER
Setting the mood for a romantic dinner date night calls for a makeup look that’s both glamorous and effortless. Here’s how to achieve a balance of elegance and beauty:
Flawless Canvas: Start with a flawless base using a medium-coverage foundation that matches your skin tone. Apply concealer to brighten under-eye circles and camouflage any blemishes for a polished look.
Warm Glow: For a touch of warmth and dimension, sweep a bronzer over your forehead, cheeks, and jawline. This creates a natural sun-kissed effect that complements the candlelit dinner ambiance.
Smokey Elegance: Enhance your eyes with a classic smokey eye. Opt for neutral brown or charcoal eyeshadow shades, blending them seamlessly for a sophisticated look. A touch of shimmer on the lid adds a touch of glam without being overpowering.
Line and Define: Line your upper lash line with a black eyeliner pencil or gel for added definition. Finish with volumizing mascara to create dramatic, fluttery lashes that will captivate your date.
Perfect Pout: For your lips, choose a lipstick that complements your overall look. A classic red lip is a timeless choice for a romantic dinner, or opt for a deep berry shade for a touch of mystery. Finish with a lip liner to ensure precise application and prevent color bleeding.
FAQ
1. What’s the most important thing for date night makeup?
Focus on feeling confident and beautiful in your own skin! Enhance your natural features and choose makeup that makes you feel comfortable and radiant.
2. What kind of mascara should I use for a date night?
Look for a volumizing mascara that will lengthen and define your lashes. Waterproof mascara is a good choice if you’re prone to smudging or sweating.
3. What lipstick color is best for a date night?
A classic red lip is a timeless choice for a romantic dinner. For a more daytime date, opt for a nude or pink shade. You can also try a bold berry shade for a touch of mystery.
4. How can I make my makeup last all night?
Use a primer to create a smooth canvas for your makeup. Apply long-wearing foundation and waterproof formulas for eyes and lips. Set your makeup with a setting spray to help it stay put throughout the night.
5. What if I’m going on an active date night, like hiking or biking?
Use waterproof and sweatproof formulas for your makeup. Skip heavy foundation and opt for a tinted moisturizer. Choose a long-lasting lip tint or lip balm.
CONCLUSION
While these tips and tricks can guide you in creating a stunning look, remember, the most attractive quality you can bring to a date night is your confidence. When you feel good in your own skin and radiate self-assurance, that’s what will truly turn heads and capture your date’s attention. So go forth, embrace your inner beauty, and have a fabulous date night!
