Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, then you’ve come to the right place! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes have been a cherished family dish for years. This recipe is not just about potatoes and cheese; it’s about gathering around the table with loved ones and sharing a moment of warmth and joy. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these creamy, cheesy potatoes are sure to impress everyone.

What makes this dish truly special is the combination of three different cheeses that melt together to create a rich and flavorful sauce. It’s an easy recipe that brings a little bit of magic to any meal. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into making these incredible au gratin potatoes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this delicious side dish ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! This dish is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenient: You can assemble the dish in advance, making it perfect for busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of cheeses creates a rich flavor profile that’s absolutely irresistible.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or even a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! You don’t need anything fancy here—just some wholesome staples that come together to make magic. Here’s what you’ll need for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes:

For the Potatoes

• 6-7 medium yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced into 1/8th inch rounds (about 3 pounds)
• ½ white or yellow onion, cut into slices

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (whole wheat or gluten-free flour work too)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk if you prefer)
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 heaping cups)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper

For Topping

• ½ cup gruyere cheese (or substitute with more sharp cheddar)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan

To Garnish

• Fresh chopped parsley

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix it up:

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a little kick!
• Cheese Lovers Delight: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends like mozzarella or pepper jack for unique flavors.
• Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary into the sauce for an aromatic twist.

How to Make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. This step ensures that your au gratin potatoes bake evenly and become perfectly golden brown on top.

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes

Take your sliced potatoes and arrange them in three tight slanted rows in a greased baking dish. Don’t worry if they look slightly messy; just make sure there’s enough space between them so they cook well. Sprinkle those onion slices in wherever you can fit them—they add great flavor!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter. Once melted, whisk in a little bit of flour before gradually adding in the almond milk while whisking continuously. This will help avoid lumps! Once it simmers and thickens to a gravy-like consistency, turn down the heat.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Now it’s time for the star of the show! Stir in your shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste as you go—adjusting seasoning is key to making your sauce perfect.

Step 5: Pour Over Potatoes

Pour that delicious cheesy sauce evenly over your arranged potatoes and onions. Don’t fret if it looks like there’s too much sauce; it will thicken beautifully while baking!

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and pop it into the oven for about 45 minutes. This steaming process helps cook the potatoes through before we add our crispy topping.

Step 7: Add Toppings and Final Bake

After 45 minutes, remove the foil—this is where things get exciting! Sprinkle gruyere cheese and parmesan over those beautiful potatoes. Return them to the oven uncovered for another 30-45 minutes until they are bubbling hot and golden brown on top.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for that lovely pop of color. Now dig in and enjoy every creamy bite!

I hope you love making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes as much as I do! They are bound to become a favorite at your table too!

Pro Tips for Making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Creating the perfect creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Slice Evenly: Ensure that your potato slices are uniform in thickness (about 1/8 inch) to guarantee even cooking throughout the dish. This helps avoid some potatoes being undercooked while others may become mushy.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties. Fresh cheese melts better and creates a creamier texture that enhances the overall flavor of your au gratin potatoes.
• Layer Wisely: When layering your potatoes and onions, try to create a balance between the two. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they bake, ensuring every bite is cheesy and satisfying.
• Check for Doneness: Use a fork to check the doneness of the potatoes toward the end of baking. They should be tender in the center and golden brown on top. If they need more time, cover them again with foil to prevent over-browning.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for about 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting time helps set the sauce, making it easier to serve without falling apart.

How to Serve Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

When it comes to serving Dad’s creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes, presentation can enhance your meal experience! Here are some fun ways to showcase this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the cheese.
• Cracked Black Pepper: Just a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper provide not only visual appeal but also a touch of warmth that balances out the creaminess.
• Extra Cheese: For an even cheesier finish, consider grating a little more cheese on top right before serving; it melts slightly from the residual heat and creates an inviting look.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil and herbs makes for a vibrant contrast in texture and flavor.
• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the au gratin potatoes.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu: Adding grilled chicken or marinated tofu provides protein that pairs beautifully with the creamy side dish while keeping your meal satisfying.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements this dish perfectly, allowing you to scoop up any leftover cheesy sauce while adding a delightful crunch.

Enjoying Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes alongside these garnishes and side dishes will create an unforgettable meal that brings warmth and comfort to any table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can easily make a large batch of Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish on busy weeknights or during gatherings with family and friends.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the au gratin potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the dish is fully cooled before freezing.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen au gratin potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the dish in the oven covered with foil for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes to crisp up the top.

FAQs

You might have some questions about this delicious recipe, so let’s dive into some common queries!

Can I use different types of cheese for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

Yes! You can definitely experiment with different cheeses. While sharp cheddar and gruyere are fantastic, feel free to try mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.

How do I know when my Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are done?

The potatoes are ready when they can be easily pierced with a fork, and the top is golden brown and bubbling. This usually takes around 30-45 minutes after removing the foil.

Is there a gluten-free option for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free flour in place of regular all-purpose flour for the sauce. It will still turn out creamy and delicious!

Can I add vegetables to this au gratin recipe?

Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or even roasted garlic can enhance both flavor and nutrition. Just ensure any added veggies are pre-cooked or sautéed slightly before layering them in.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes as much as my family does! This comforting dish brings warmth and smiles around the table, making it a star at any meal. Enjoy every cheesy bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations! Happy cooking!