Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that can truly bring everyone to the table, these Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are it! This creamy, dreamy dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of tender potatoes, rich cheese, and roasted garlic creates a comforting experience that warms both the belly and the heart. I love how easy it is to whip up and how it never fails to impress guests. Whether you’re serving a holiday feast or just enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these cheesy potatoes will steal the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The rich blend of sharp cheddar and roasted garlic gives these potatoes an irresistible taste that everyone will adore.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will dig into this cheesy goodness, making it a go-to side for family meals.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep it in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to serve—great for entertaining!
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair these cheesy au gratin potatoes with any main course for a complete meal everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful dish!

For the Main Dish

• 1 bulb garlic
• Drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 strips bacon (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (add an additional 2 tablespoons if skipping the bacon)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (chopped)
• 12 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (shredded + more for topping as needed)
• 4-5 medium Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 6 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 teaspoon salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have available.

• Add vegetables: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
• Skip the bacon: For a vegetarian version, simply skip the bacon and add extra herbs for flavor.
• Layer in some protein: Add cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier dish.

How to Make Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Slice off the tops of the bulb of garlic to expose those lovely cloves. Drizzle them with olive oil, wrap them in foil, and pop them in the oven. Roasting brings out their sweetness, transforming them into buttery goodness that adds depth to our cheesy sauce.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Once your garlic is roasted, lower your oven temperature to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly; this will ensure our cheesy potatoes come out beautifully without sticking.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook those strips of bacon until they’re crispy. The savory aroma will fill your kitchen! Remove them from the pan, crumble them up, and set aside. Don’t forget to reserve some bacon fat; it’ll enhance our cheese sauce.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Now add butter into the skillet with reserved bacon fat. Once melted, whisk in flour to create a roux. Cooking it until golden helps eliminate any raw flour taste while thickening our sauce beautifully.

Step 5: Whisk in Milk

Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously—this step is crucial! It helps prevent lumps from forming as our mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.

Step 6: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Next up is that gorgeous roasted garlic—squeeze out about 5-6 cloves into the mixture (or more if you’re feeling adventurous!). Stir in paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to elevate those flavors.

Step 7: Stir in Cheese

Gradually stir in Tillamook Sharp Cheddar until you have a luscious cheese sauce. This step is where all that creaminess comes together; it’s hard not to sneak a taste!

Step 8: Assemble Your Dish

Layer those thinly sliced potatoes into your greased baking dish. Pour that heavenly cheese sauce over them ensuring each slice is coated. Sprinkle crumbled bacon on top if you’re using it; every bite will be packed with flavor!

Step 9: Bake and Enjoy!

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then uncover it, sprinkle some extra Tillamook Sharp and White Cheddar on top—because who doesn’t love more cheese? Bake it uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

And there you have it! A scrumptious side that’s bound to become a favorite at your table! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Making the perfect Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is all about attention to detail and a few handy tricks. Here are some tips to help you achieve that creamy, dreamy dish every time!

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly roasted garlic adds a depth of flavor that jarred garlic simply can’t match, making your cheese sauce irresistible.
• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture and ability to hold up during baking, ensuring a satisfying bite.
• Don’t rush the roux: Cooking your flour in the butter until golden not only enhances the flavor but also prevents a raw taste in your sauce.
• Layer it up: For extra cheesy goodness, consider layering your potatoes with the cheese sauce instead of just pouring it all at once—this helps every slice be equally decadent.
• Let it rest: Allowing your dish to sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking lets the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.

How to Serve Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

When it’s time to present your Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, think about adding a touch of elegance and flavor with simple garnishes and complementary side dishes. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the dish.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives offer a mild onion flavor that pairs wonderfully with cheesy potatoes, enhancing both taste and presentation.

Side Dishes

• Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of au gratin potatoes. Simply steam them with a sprinkle of salt for an easy side.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized, Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that balances the creaminess of the potatoes beautifully.
• Grilled chicken breast: A light grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs makes for a hearty protein option alongside cheesy potatoes, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a crisp, refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the gratin.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These cheesy au gratin potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them properly, and enjoy their deliciousness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• For long-term storage, let the dish cool completely.
• Cut into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container; label with the date.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the potatoes in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes!

Can I make cheesy au gratin potatoes without bacon?

Absolutely! You can skip the bacon and use an extra tablespoon of butter instead. The creamy cheese sauce will still be delicious!

How do I make cheesy au gratin potatoes creamy?

To ensure your cheesy au gratin potatoes are creamy, gradually add shredded cheese to your sauce while whisking. This prevents clumping and allows for a smooth texture.

Can I use different types of cheese in cheesy au gratin potatoes?

Yes, feel free to mix it up! While sharp cheddar adds great flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different twist.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes as much as I do! They’re not just a side dish; they’re a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them on a cozy weeknight, these potatoes are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!