Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food to serve at your next family gathering, look no further than Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes. This dish is a cherished family recipe that brings everyone together around the dinner table. Each bite is filled with creamy, cheesy goodness that makes it impossible to resist! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive holiday, this side dish is sure to steal the show and satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

What makes these au gratin potatoes so special is not just the blend of three different cheeses but also the love and memories tied to it. I remember watching my dad whip this up in the kitchen, and now I’m thrilled to share this delicious recipe with you. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! They are a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead option: Prep these au gratin potatoes ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
• Delicious flavors: The combination of sharp cheddar and gruyere creates layers of flavor that are simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before getting started:

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 here)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or any milk you prefer)
• 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! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add vegetables: Toss in some sliced mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with your favorite cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a little kick!
• Make it lighter: Substitute some of the butter with olive oil or use low-fat cheese.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This ensures that your au gratin potatoes bake evenly from start to finish. Don’t forget to spray your baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or grease it with butter or oil so nothing sticks!

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes and Onions

Next, arrange those beautifully sliced potatoes in tight slanted rows in your baking dish. It’s important not to overcrowd them; they need space to cook evenly. Sprinkle onion slices in between the rows—this will add flavor and sweetness as they bake.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in a bit of flour, then slowly pour in the almond milk while continuously whisking. This prevents lumps from forming. Bring this mixture to a simmer until it’s thickened like creamy gravy—this step creates that luscious sauce that will coat our potatoes beautifully!

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Now it’s time for the best part! Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste your sauce—don’t be shy about adjusting seasoning if needed; we want it just right!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour that velvety sauce evenly over your arranged potatoes and onions. It might seem like there’s too much sauce at first, but trust me—this will create an incredible creamy texture as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and pop it into the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld together while keeping everything moist.

Step 7: Final Touches

After the initial bake time, remove the foil and sprinkle gruyere cheese (or more cheddar) along with parmesan on top. Return it to bake uncovered for another 30-45 minutes until everything is golden brown and bubbly! You’ll know it’s done when a fork easily pierces through those tender potato layers.

Once out of the oven, let it cool for just a moment before garnishing with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy bite!

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

Making the perfect au gratin potatoes is all about attention to detail—here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy and delicious every time!

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a natural creaminess that enhances the texture of the dish. They hold their shape well while cooking and provide a buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheeses.
• Slice Evenly: Aim for uniform 1/8-inch slices to ensure even cooking. This helps the potatoes cook through at the same rate, resulting in a perfectly tender texture throughout.
• Don’t Skip the Cheese Mix: Using a combination of cheeses like sharp cheddar and gruyere adds depth of flavor. Each cheese contributes different melting properties and tastes, creating a more complex and satisfying cheesy experience.
• Taste as You Go: Before pouring the sauce over your potatoes, make sure to taste it for seasoning. Adjusting salt and pepper at this stage ensures that every bite will be flavorful.
• Let It Rest: After baking, allow the dish to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the layers settle and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.

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

These creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes are not only a treat for your taste buds but also an eye-catching addition to any meal. Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley on top adds color and freshness, enhancing both the look and flavor of the dish.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper gives an extra hint of spice that complements the richness of the cheese.
• Chives or Green Onions: Finely chopped chives or green onions can add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color that brightens up the presentation.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus provides a healthy balance to the rich au gratin potatoes.
• Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette refreshes the palate between bites of cheesy goodness.
• Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy grilled chicken seasoned with herbs makes for a protein-packed accompaniment that balances well with the creamy side dish.
• Steamed Broccoli: This classic vegetable side is not only nutritious but its vibrant green color contrasts beautifully against the golden-brown au gratin potatoes.

By following these tips and pairing suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, store it properly, and enjoy its deliciousness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the au gratin potatoes to cool completely at room temperature.
• Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Cut into portions and wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or bake from frozen, covered, for 30-40 minutes. Remove foil during the last 10 minutes to crisp the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions 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 sharp cheddar and gruyere give a wonderful flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist. Just remember to adjust quantities according to taste!

How long does it take to prepare Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

The total time is approximately 105 minutes, including 30 minutes of prep and about 75 minutes of cooking. It’s well worth the wait for such a delicious side dish!

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

Yes! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or even freeze them. Follow the storage instructions provided for best results.

What should I serve with Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

These au gratin potatoes pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad. They’re versatile enough to complement any main course!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes as much as my family does! This recipe is not just a side dish; it’s a heartfelt experience filled with cheesy goodness that brings everyone together. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, these potatoes will surely be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your own spins on this classic recipe!