Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is my all-time favourite comfort food recipe. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes, infused with the rich flavor of roasted garlic and creamy cheese, create a delightful symphony of taste and texture. This dish is not only perfect for cozy family dinners but also shines at gatherings with friends or holiday feasts. It’s a real crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!

What makes this recipe so special is how simple it is to prepare while delivering an impressive result. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive occasion, these Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin will always be the star of the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of roasted garlic and creamy cheese creates a rich taste that warms your soul.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious side dish without breaking a sweat.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy goodness and tender potatoes.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance! Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create this comforting dish. Gather these items for your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin:

• 8-9 medium starchy potatoes (about 1.2kg), thinly sliced
• 1 head garlic, cut the top off
• 1 cup (250 ml) heavy cream / double cream
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) whole milk
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the baking dish
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/3 tsp dried thyme)
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 cup (40g) grated parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 cups (about 220g) shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives, for garnish

Variations

The beauty of Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add some greens: Mix in some thinly sliced spinach or kale between layers for added nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Swap out Gruyère for cheddar or your favorite melting cheese for a unique twist.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
• Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley to give it your personal touch.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, cut the top off the head of garlic to expose those lovely cloves inside. Place it on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Wrap the foil around the garlic and roast it in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes until soft and golden. This step is essential as roasting brings out the sweet flavor of garlic that will beautifully enhance your potatoes.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While your garlic roasts away, grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with more unsalted butter. This helps prevent those gooey potatoes from sticking!

Step 3: Slice Your Potatoes

Now it’s time to peel and thinly slice those starchy potatoes. I highly recommend using a mandoline slicer if you have one; it ensures even slices which lead to perfectly cooked layers.

Step 4: Layer Those Potatoes

Take stacks of sliced potatoes and arrange them upright in layers within your baking dish. Don’t worry about making them perfect—this rustic style adds to their charm! Continue layering until all your potatoes are used up.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, whole milk, unsalted butter, half of the grated parmesan cheese, fresh thyme leaves, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Heat until everything is well mixed and melted together—just don’t let it boil! This creamy mixture is what binds all those delicious flavors together.

Step 6: Mash in That Roasted Garlic

Once your garlic has cooled slightly, squeeze those golden cloves out of their skins into a bowl and mash them into a paste. Stir this delightful roasted garlic paste into your warm cream mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Combine Everything Together

Pour that creamy mixture evenly over the layered potatoes in your baking dish. Cover tightly with kitchen foil; this helps steam cook the potatoes perfectly as they bake.

Step 8: Bake!

Pop those potatoes au gratin into your preheated oven for about 40 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and sprinkle on shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese along with any remaining grated parmesan cheese on top.

Step 9: Golden Perfection!

Return the uncovered dish back into the oven for an additional 30 minutes until that cheesy top is bubbly and golden brown while ensuring that those tender potatoes are fork-tender too.

Step 10: Serve with Love

Once done baking, remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh chives for that pop of color—and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Making the perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is all about the little details. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish comes out delicious every time!

• Use starchy potatoes: Opting for starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold will give you a creamy texture and help absorb the flavors of the garlic and cheese.

• Slice evenly: For uniform cooking, make sure to slice your potatoes to about 1/8 inch thick. A mandoline slicer can be a great tool for achieving even slices effortlessly.

• Don’t skip the roasting: Roasting the garlic not only mellows its flavor but also adds a sweet, caramelized depth that’s essential in this dish. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

• Layer thoughtfully: When placing your potato layers, try to overlap them slightly to create a beautiful presentation and ensure even cooking throughout.

• Let it rest: Allowing your gratin to cool for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve and enjoy without falling apart.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Presenting your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin beautifully can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s for a cozy family meal or a special gathering, these ideas will help you impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh chives or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely visual contrast against the golden cheese.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy potatoes.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add vibrant color and complement the flavors of the gratin beautifully.
• Grilled chicken or fish: A simple grilled protein like chicken breast or salmon can round out your meal while keeping it light and balanced.
• Garlic bread: Pairing this dish with warm garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser; it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce from your gratin!

Enjoy serving this delightful dish at your next gathering! Your loved ones will be asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds).

Make Ahead and Storage

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting side dish without the last-minute hassle. Here are some handy tips for storing, freezing, and reheating your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the potatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy reference.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely and cut it into portions.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat individual portions in a microwave or warm the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you with your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin!

Can I make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a day in advance by assembling it and storing it covered in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve!

What can I substitute for Gruyère cheese in Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

If you don’t have Gruyère cheese on hand, mozzarella works beautifully as a substitute. Other options include cheddar or fontina cheese for different flavor profiles.

How do I know when my Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin are done?

Your dish is ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly, and you can easily insert a fork into the potatoes. They should be fork-tender!

Can I add vegetables to my Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Certainly! Feel free to layer in some steamed spinach or sautéed mushrooms along with your potatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin as I do! This recipe not only brings warmth and comfort but also makes any meal feel special. Enjoy every cheesy bite, share it with loved ones, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients. Happy cooking!