Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that brings everyone to the table, look no further than Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it’s one I grew up enjoying during family gatherings and cozy dinners at home. The creamy richness combined with the cheesy goodness makes this dish simply irresistible! You’ll find yourself coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds) because it’s just that good. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious side dish without any stress.
• Family-friendly appeal: Who doesn’t love cheesy potatoes? This is a surefire hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the potatoes in advance and bake them just before serving, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Rich, creamy flavor: Combining three cheeses results in a decadent taste that elevates any meal.
• Versatile for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, these au gratin potatoes fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these mouthwatering au gratin potatoes, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Each one contributes to the creamy texture and rich flavor that makes this recipe a favorite.

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 any milk of your choice)
• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences! Here are a few ideas to mix things up:

• Add veggies: Toss in some cooked broccoli or spinach for an extra nutritional boost.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for unique flavors.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños if you enjoy a little heat in your dishes!
• Make it lighter: Substitute half of the almond milk with vegetable broth for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. This ensures that your au gratin potatoes cook evenly once they’re ready to go in!

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 helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier later on.

Step 3: Arrange the Potatoes

Place the sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows in your baking dish. Make sure they’re not too crowded; leaving some space allows them to cook perfectly! Sprinkle the onion slices between and on top of the potato layers for added flavor.

Step 4: Make Your Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in a bit of flour, then slowly add almond milk while alternating with flour. This technique helps avoid lumps and creates a smooth sauce. Bring it to a simmer until it thickens slightly—aiming for a consistency similar to creamy gravy is perfect!

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Give everything a taste and adjust seasoning as needed—this is where you can make it just right!

Step 6: Pour Over Potatoes

Evenly pour your creamy cheese sauce over the arranged potatoes and onions. Don’t worry if they aren’t completely submerged; they will absorb all that deliciousness while baking!

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. This allows the potatoes to soften beautifully without drying out.

Step 8: Finish Baking Uncovered

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle gruyere cheese (or more cheddar) along with parmesan on top. Return it to the oven uncovered for another 30-45 minutes until golden brown on top and fork-tender in the middle—perfection!

Step 9: Garnish & Serve

Once out of the oven, garnish your creation with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Now it’s time to dig into Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes—enjoy every cheesy bite!

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

Making the perfect au gratin potatoes is all about those little details that can elevate your dish from good to unforgettable!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. They hold their shape during cooking, providing a great base for your cheesy sauce.

• Layer thoughtfully: When arranging the potato slices, make sure they are slightly slanted and not too tightly packed. This allows for even cooking and ensures that every slice absorbs the delicious sauce.

• Whisk vigorously: When making your cheese sauce, whisking well helps to eliminate lumps and creates a smoother consistency. This is key to achieving that luxurious creaminess we all love in au gratin potatoes.

• Don’t skip the foil: Covering your baking dish with foil during the first part of baking traps steam, which helps cook the potatoes thoroughly without burning the top. Remove it later for that golden crust!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps thicken up the sauce and makes it easier to serve. Plus, it gives you time to set the table!

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

Presentation can really elevate this comforting side dish, making it feel special for any occasion. Here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh chopped parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds a lovely color contrast and freshness that brightens up your dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A few cracks of fresh black pepper provide a hint of spice that complements the creamy cheese beautifully without overpowering it.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and adds a nice crunch alongside the creamy potatoes.

• Grilled Chicken or Tofu: For protein options, grilled chicken or marinated tofu provides a satisfying addition while keeping the meal balanced and hearty.

• Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the au gratin potatoes.

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread rounds out this comforting meal perfectly, making it feel like an indulgent feast everyone will want to dive into.

Enjoy crafting your own version of Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes! Each bite is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your dining table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is perfect for meal prep, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. You can prepare it in advance, store it, and enjoy it at your convenience!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the au gratin potatoes cool completely.
• Cut into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the baking dish with foil to prevent drying out and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, then follow the same method.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven.

What cheese works best for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

While sharp cheddar is a star ingredient, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for added flavor.

How do I ensure my au gratin potatoes are creamy?

Make sure to whisk your sauce thoroughly while cooking and pour it evenly over the potatoes. This helps achieve that signature creaminess in every bite!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes! This comforting dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings filled with love and laughter. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, I can’t wait for you to experience its cheesy goodness. Enjoy every moment of preparing and sharing this delightful side dish!