Let's Host a Raclette Party!

The Easiest Dinner Party there is!

Feeling a bit burnt out after the holidays?! All that cooking, cleaning, and entertaining can do that to the best of us!

But let’s not let that be a deterrent to having friends over! If you want an easy, low-lift idea for entertaining, turn to the raclette machine!

This is especially good when the temperatures outside are freezing; it’s amazing how good melted cheese and boiled potatoes taste under these conditions!

A typical raclette plate includes a selection of charcuterie, boiled potatoes, gooey raclette cheese, and a few cornichons and marinated onions.

What is Raclette?

Raclette is a Swiss invention (think fondue, but way more fun and filling!). It’s also very popular here in France, especially when the weather turns cold! It’s both the name of the cheese and the machine.

However, the traditional way to serve raclette is over an open fire. Picture this: A huge wedge of raclette cheese melts under the heat of the fire and then is scraped off and lathered onto potatoes or bread. I enjoyed this version during a family ski trip years ago, and it still remains one of the most memorable meals of my life!

But no need to build a fire, one of these cute little machines will do just fine.

This is a raclette machine for 8 people. But you can also find them for 4 or even 2 people! The granite top serves as a little “griddle” for cooking meat, sausages or veggies.

What Makes Raclette So Easy?

There’s hardly any cooking involved! That’s the best part! All you have to do is boil the potatoes. Then set out the cheese, a platter of charcuterie, a bowl of cornichons, a few marinated onions et voila! Dinner is served.

Any type of small waxy potato works great. Think Yukon Gold, Dutch Baby etc. Peel them, and then boil them until tender.

From basic to top-of-the-line:

Raclette machines come in all price points. This is a cute, compact machine for a cozy raclette dinner for two, or this one is nice too for four, or go all out with this model that serves 8. (These links go to Amazon where I am compensated for products sold at no additional cost to the consummer)

Are there any Vegetables Involved?

Yes! You can take the easy route and serve a tossed salad with a French Vinaigrette or grill some veggies on the griddle. I like to serve mushrooms because they cook quickly on the griddle (each guest cooks their own), and they complement the cheese and charcuterie nicely.

It’s easiest to cook the mushrooms once you slice them in half so they lay flat. Thread them through a skewer for easy grilling. You could also use cherry tomatoes or zucchini too.

Watch My Video Demo Below!

For Dessert:

Try my French Apple Cake. It’s easy to whip up with pantry staples; just be sure to splurge for the high-quality vanilla ice cream. It makes all the difference!