Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, look no further than Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin. This recipe has been a cherished favorite of mine for years. The creamy layers of thinly sliced potatoes, infused with the rich flavor of roasted garlic, create a heartwarming side dish that steals the show at any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, this recipe brings everyone together around the table.

What makes these Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin truly special is their versatility and the irresistible cheesy goodness that everyone loves. Trust me; once you serve this up, it’ll become your go-to comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted garlic and creamy cheese creates an unforgettable flavor that will leave you wanting more.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: It’s the perfect side dish even for picky eaters—who can resist cheesy potatoes?
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a holiday feast, these potatoes fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are not only delicious but also easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Potato Layers

• 8-9 medium starchy potatoes (about 1.2kg), thinly sliced
• 1 head garlic, cut the top off

For the Creamy Sauce

• 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

For the Topping

• 2 cups (about 220g) shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives, for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms between potato layers for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to give your gratin a little kick!
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or feta for unique flavor profiles.
• Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh rosemary or oregano alongside thyme for additional aromatic flavors.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A properly heated oven ensures that your potatoes cook evenly and develop that lovely golden top.

Step 2: Roast the Garlic

Begin by roasting your garlic. Cut off the top of the head to expose those beautiful cloves. Place it on aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with a bit of salt. Wrap it up snugly and let it roast for about 30 minutes until soft and golden. This step is crucial because roasting enhances garlic’s sweetness, making your dish even more flavorful!

Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While your garlic is roasting away, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with some unsalted butter. This prevents sticking and adds extra flavor to your potatoes.

Step 4: Slice Those Potatoes

Now it’s time to get slicing! Peel and thinly slice your potatoes using a mandoline slicer if you have one—this ensures even cooking throughout. Layering them upright in the baking dish not only looks pretty but also allows each slice to soak up all that creamy goodness.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, butter, half of the grated parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, along with salt and pepper. Heat until melted together but don’t let it boil! This creamy mixture will coat our potatoes beautifully.

Step 6: Incorporate Roasted Garlic

Once your garlic is roasted and slightly cooled, squeeze those lovely cloves out into a bowl and mash them into a paste. Stir this paste into your cream mixture until fully combined—this is where all that yummy roasted garlic flavor comes in!

Step 7: Assemble Your Dish

Pour this creamy goodness over your layered potatoes in the baking dish. Be sure every slice gets coated nicely! Cover your dish tightly with kitchen foil to keep all that moisture in while they bake.

Step 8: Bake Away!

Pop this beauty into your preheated oven for about 40 minutes. After that time, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle on shredded Gruyère or mozzarella along with the remaining parmesan cheese. Return it back to the oven uncovered for another 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Once done baking, allow your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin to cool slightly before serving—this helps set those layers just right! Garnish with fresh chives for an elegant touch, then dig in! Enjoy every creamy bite of this comforting dish!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Creating the perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table!

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. These varieties become fluffy and tender when baked, making them ideal for this creamy dish.

• Slice uniformly: Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice your potatoes evenly. Consistent thickness ensures that all the slices cook uniformly, resulting in perfectly tender potatoes throughout.

• Don’t rush the roasting: Take your time roasting the garlic until it’s soft and caramelized. This step deeply enhances the flavor of the dish, giving it that rich, sweet garlic taste that pairs beautifully with creamy cheese.

• Layer wisely: When arranging your potato layers, alternate between different cheeses and seasonings. This adds depth to every bite and ensures the flavors are evenly distributed throughout.

• Let it rest: After baking, allow your dish to cool slightly before serving. This helps the gratin set up a bit more, making it easier to slice and serve while maintaining its creamy texture.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

This dish is not just about taste; it’s also about presentation! Serving your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin in an appealing way can elevate any meal and make it feel extra special.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped fresh chives or parsley sprinkled on top add vibrant color and a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving can enhance both the flavor and appearance.
• Grated cheese: For added flair, sprinkle some extra grated cheese on top right before serving—melted goodness always makes for an inviting presentation!

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy potatoes.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots bring additional texture and flavor while keeping things healthy.
• Grilled chicken or fish: Lightly seasoned grilled proteins pair well with this rich side dish, balancing out the meal beautifully.
• Steamed asparagus: The bright flavors of steamed asparagus provide a lovely crunch and color alongside your hearty gratin.

By incorporating these garnishes and side dishes into your meal plan, you’ll create a delightful dining experience that everyone will love! Enjoy every cheesy bite of your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin!

Make Ahead and Storage

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is the perfect dish for meal prep, as it stores beautifully and can be made in advance. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you know you’ll have leftovers, consider leaving the cheese off until you’re ready to reheat.

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to freezer-safe containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To make reheating easier, consider freezing individual portions.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• For a crispy top, uncover for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin that might help you out!

Can I use different types of cheese for Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Absolutely! While Gruyère and mozzarella provide great flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.

How do I make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin without heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with a combination of whole milk and a bit of cornstarch for thickness. This will still give you a creamy texture without using heavy cream.

What potatoes are best for Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best as they create a fluffy texture while baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin! It’s truly a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it on a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. I can’t wait for you to try it – happy cooking!