Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal, look no further! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes have been a family favorite for years. This recipe is special because it combines three types of cheese with tender Yukon gold potatoes, creating a rich and creamy experience that makes every bite feel like a hug. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, these au gratin potatoes are sure to impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this dish is how simple it is to prepare. You can whip it up in no time, and it’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) make for an amazing next-day treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar, gruyere, and parmesan creates a cheesy delight that’s hard to resist.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have this comforting dish ready to bake in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and cheesy goodness of these au gratin potatoes.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile Side Dish: These potatoes pair wonderfully with just about any main course, from roasted chicken to veggie burgers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious side!

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 (whole wheat or gluten-free 1:1 flour also works)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or regular, skim, or whole 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 (or substitute with more sharp cheddar)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan

To Garnish

• Fresh chopped parsley

Variations

One of the best things about Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is how flexible the recipe is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in some spinach or broccoli for an extra boost of nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little kick.
• Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for unique flavors.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added aroma and taste.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This ensures it’s hot enough when your au gratin goes in. A well-heated oven helps achieve that golden-brown topping we all love!

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 2-quart square baking dish (or an 8×12 dish) with nonstick cooking spray or grease it lightly with butter or oil. This step is important because it helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier later.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes and Onions

Arrange sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows in the baking dish. Leave enough space so they can cook evenly. Nestle onion slices between the layers wherever you can fit them — they’ll add great flavor as they bake!

Step 4: Make Your Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in a bit of flour before slowly adding almond milk while whisking vigorously. This technique helps avoid lumps and creates a smooth sauce. Bring it to a simmer until thickened; you want it similar in consistency to creamy gravy.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Once your sauce has thickened, lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste your sauce; don’t hesitate to add more seasoning if needed! This step adds depth of flavor that will permeate throughout the potatoes.

Step 6: Pour Over Potatoes

Pour that luscious cheese sauce evenly over your layered potatoes and onions—don’t stress if some bits are still peeking through; they’ll get plenty creamy as they bake!

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover your pan tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. The cover traps steam inside, helping cook those potatoes through beautifully.

Step 8: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After removing the foil, sprinkle gruyere cheese (or more cheddar) and parmesan on top. Return it to the oven for another 30-45 minutes until everything is bubbling hot and golden brown on top. You’ll know they’re done when you can easily pierce the center of the potatoes with a fork.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Once out of the oven, garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley for that pop of color! Serve warm alongside your favorite main dishes — enjoy every cheesy bite!

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

Creating the perfect au gratin potatoes is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy and delicious every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor, which enhances the richness of the dish.

• Slice uniformly: Keep your potato slices even (1/8 inch thick) to ensure they cook evenly. This way, every bite will have that perfect creaminess!

• Don’t rush the sauce: Take your time when making the cheese sauce. Whisking slowly and thoroughly will help prevent lumps, leading to a smoother final dish.

• Experiment with cheese: While sharp cheddar is a must, feel free to mix in different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist!

• Let it rest before serving: After baking, allow your au gratin potatoes to sit for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

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

This dish is not only rich and comforting but also visually appealing! Presenting it well can enhance the overall experience.

Garnishes

To elevate your au gratin potatoes, consider adding one or more of these simple garnishes:

• Fresh chopped parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper adds a bit of heat and sophistication.
• Extra cheese on top: If you’re feeling indulgent, add a bit more shredded cheese on top just before serving for an extra cheesy finish.

Side Dishes

Pairing your au gratin potatoes with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

• Steamed broccoli: The bright green veggie adds a healthy crunch and vibrant color, contrasting beautifully with the creamy potatoes.

• Garlic bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce and adds delightful flavor to your meal.

• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the potatoes.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as carrots or zucchini bring both color and nutrition to your plate while complementing the flavors of the au gratin.

Enjoy creating this deliciously cheesy side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This delicious recipe for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week or save it for a special occasion. Here’s how to store and preserve your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the au gratin potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely, then cut into portions.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the dish with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the same method or heat directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

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 sharp cheddar and gruyere create a deliciously rich flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a unique twist.

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

The potatoes are done when they are easily pierced with a fork and the top is golden brown. Baking times may vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on them towards the end!

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

Yes! Simply substitute all dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, such as almond milk instead of regular milk and vegan cheese instead of cheddar and gruyere.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes as much as my family does! This comforting side dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings warmth to any meal. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or just a cozy family dinner, I’m sure it will become a favorite at your table too. Enjoy every cheesy bite, and happy cooking!