Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that will steal the show at your next family gathering, then you’ve come to the right place! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is a recipe that’s been passed down through generations in my family. Each layer of tender potatoes smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce makes this dish an unforgettable addition to any meal. Whether it’s a holiday feast or just a cozy weeknight dinner, these au gratin potatoes are sure to warm your heart and fill your belly with joy!

My dad always made this dish for special occasions, and it quickly became a staple at our table. The combination of three types of cheese creates an irresistible creamy goodness that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up even after a long day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Cheesy: With sharp cheddar and gruyere, every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this dish perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike can’t resist these creamy potatoes!
• Versatile Side Dish: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or any dinner where you want to impress.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance and bake when you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You’ll love how everything comes together effortlessly! Here’s what you need:

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 too)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)
• 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, shredded (or extra sharp cheddar)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan

To Garnish

• Fresh chopped parsley

Variations

This recipe is so flexible! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach or roasted garlic for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Mix Up the Cheese: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your au gratin potatoes bake evenly from the start. Grease a 2-quart square baking dish with nonstick spray or butter so nothing sticks!

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes

Layer sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows in your baking dish. Remember not to pack them too tightly; they need space to cook properly. Nestle those onion slices between the potato layers—this adds great flavor as they soften!

Step 3: Make Your Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s melted, whisk in a little flour before slowly adding in almond milk while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Bring this mixture to a simmer; it should look like creamy gravy—smooth and luscious!

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Once simmering, lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a taste—this is where you can adjust seasoning if needed! The cheesy aroma will be hard to resist.

Step 5: Pour Over Potatoes

Now it’s time to pour that glorious sauce over your arranged potatoes and onions evenly, ensuring everything is covered well. Don’t worry; it will get even creamier while baking away!

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover the pan with foil and pop it in the oven for about 45 minutes. This helps steam the potatoes so they get tender without drying out.

Step 7: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle gruyere cheese and parmesan on top. Put it back in the oven for another 30-45 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown on top—just like my dad used to make! When done, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy every cheesy bite of Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes—you’ll be going back for seconds!

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

Making this dish is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: Their natural creaminess makes them ideal for au gratin dishes, giving a rich texture that’s hard to beat.
• Slice Evenly: Keeping the potato slices uniform (about 1/8th inch) ensures they cook evenly and achieve that perfect creamy consistency throughout.
• Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps steam the potatoes and cook them through before browning the cheese on top.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before pouring it over the potatoes. Adjust salt and pepper to your preference for a flavor that’s perfectly tailored to your palate.
• Let It Rest: After baking, allow the dish to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the sauce thicken up a bit more, making each scoop easier to serve.

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

This dish not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful when served! Here are some ideas on how to present your cheesy creation for maximum effect.

Garnishes

• Fresh Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds freshness and color, making your dish even more appealing.
• A Dash of Paprika: For a pop of color and a hint of smokiness, lightly dust paprika over the top right before serving.
• Chives or Green Onions: Finely chopped chives or green onions can bring a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the cheese.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Asparagus: The crisp-tender texture and earthy flavor of roasted asparagus make it a delightful contrast to creamy potatoes.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds color to your plate but also offers a nutritious balance to the richness of au gratin potatoes.
• Simple Garden Salad: A refreshing garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a nice crunch that pairs well with creamy sides.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu: For added protein, consider serving grilled chicken or marinated tofu. Both options complement the rich flavors without overpowering them.

Enjoy creating this comforting side dish that will surely become a family favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are not only a delightful side dish but also fantastic for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time, store them, and enjoy them whenever you want a comforting meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the au gratin potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container, ensuring it is sealed tightly.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the au gratin potatoes before baking.
• Wrap the assembled dish tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any foil or plastic wrap from the dish.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Uncover for the last few minutes to crisp up the top cheese layer if desired.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes.

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

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

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

The potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork and have a golden brown top. Keep an eye on them during the last baking phase!

Can I make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular flour with gluten-free 1:1 flour, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version that everyone will love.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes! This recipe holds a special place in my heart, combining creamy textures and cheesy goodness that truly warms the soul. I encourage you to give it a try and share it with your loved ones—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table too! Happy cooking!