Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s the epitome of comfort food, look no further than Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes. This recipe has been passed down in my family and is a staple at our holiday gatherings. The combination of creamy cheese sauce and tender potatoes creates a dish that is both indulgent and satisfying. Every bite is a warm hug, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.

What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to prepare! You can throw it together with simple ingredients, and it always impresses. Plus, leftovers (if there are any!) make for a delightful next-day treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can have a delicious side ready to go!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes. They bring smiles to the dinner table!
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prep this dish in advance and pop it into the oven when you’re ready.
• Versatile Dish: It pairs beautifully with any main course, making it great for all occasions.
• Decadent Flavor: The blend of cheeses creates an irresistible taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this cheesy goodness! You’ll find that everything you need is easy to find at your local grocery store.

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 (you can use whole wheat or gluten-free 1:1 flour)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (regular milk works too)
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (about 2 heaping cups shredded)
• 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 ways you can customize it to suit your taste:

• Add Veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Switch Up the Cheeses: Try using different cheese blends like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an added kick.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your au gratin potatoes cook evenly and become perfectly golden on top.

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes

Spray a 2-quart square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or grease it with butter. Place your sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows, leaving enough space between them so they cook through without getting mushy. Scatter onion slices in between and on top of the potatoes – they add fantastic flavor!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Gradually whisk in flour, alternating with almond milk while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. This creates a smooth sauce similar to creamy gravy – delicious! Bring this mixture to a simmer until thickened.

Step 4: Add Cheese & Seasoning

Once your sauce has thickened, lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; this step infuses flavor into your sauce!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the arranged potatoes and onions. Don’t fret if it looks like too much; the sauce will seep into every nook while baking!

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. This helps steam the potatoes until they’re tender.

Step 7: Add Toppings & Finish Baking

After removing the foil, sprinkle gruyere cheese and parmesan on top. Return to the oven for another 30-45 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly on top. You’ll know they’re done when you can easily pierce through the middle with a fork.

Step 8: Garnish & Enjoy!

Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for color and freshness before serving up these delicious au gratin potatoes! Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

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

Making perfect au gratin potatoes is all about attention to detail and a pinch of love. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy and cheesy every time!

• Use uniform potato slices: Cutting the potatoes into even 1/8-inch rounds ensures they cook evenly. This means no mushy or undercooked bites, giving you that perfect creamy texture throughout.

• Layer wisely: When layering the potatoes and onions, be mindful of leaving some space between the slices. This not only helps with even cooking but also allows the sauce to seep in fully, enhancing that delightful flavor.

• Don’t rush the sauce: When making the cheese sauce, take your time whisking in the flour and milk slowly. This prevents lumps from forming and gives you a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the potatoes beautifully.

• Taste as you go: Always taste your cheese sauce before pouring it over the potatoes. Adjusting salt and pepper at this stage ensures your dish has a balanced flavor that everyone will enjoy.

• Let it rest before serving: After baking, allow your au gratin potatoes to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps set the layers and makes it easier to serve while maintaining that wonderful creaminess.

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

Presentation can elevate any dish, and Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are no exception! Here are some creative ideas to make your serving as comforting as the dish itself.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top adds color and a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper not only enhances flavor but also adds a touch of elegance to your presentation.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus pairs beautifully with the creamy richness of au gratin potatoes while adding texture and color to your meal.

• Green salad: A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the creamy potatoes, balancing out the richness in each bite.

• Grilled chicken or fish: Lightly seasoned grilled chicken or fish offers a protein-packed complement that works wonderfully without overpowering the flavors of your au gratin.

• Garlic bread: For those who enjoy a little indulgence, garlic bread is an excellent side. Its crunchy exterior and buttery interior make for a delightful accompaniment to scoop up any leftover cheesy goodness!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes will surely impress at your next gathering! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are not only a delicious dish for family gatherings but also a fantastic option for meal prep. You can prepare this dish ahead of time, making your weeknight dinners a breeze while still enjoying that cheesy goodness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the au gratin potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• For best quality, cover the potatoes with foil or plastic wrap before sealing the container.

Freezing

• To freeze, make sure the dish is cooled completely.
• Cut the potatoes into portions and place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place covered au gratin potatoes in a baking dish and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• If frozen, it may take longer, so keep an eye on it and add extra time as needed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes:

Can I make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes without dairy?

Absolutely! You can substitute almond milk with other plant-based milks like oat milk or soy milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep it creamy and cheesy without any dairy.

What types of cheese work best in Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can mix in other cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for different flavors. Just make sure they melt well!

How do I prevent my Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes from becoming watery?

Make sure you slice your potatoes evenly to ensure even cooking. Also, letting them sit after baking allows any excess moisture to evaporate, giving you the perfect consistency.

Can I prepare Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can make them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. This makes them perfect for meal prep!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes! This recipe brings together creamy textures and cheesy flavors that remind me of home. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Enjoy every bite, share it with loved ones, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own twists! Happy cooking!

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