Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s sure to impress, let me introduce you to Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of family gatherings and cozy dinners at home. The creamy layers of potatoes and cheese create a comforting dish that everyone loves. Whether it’s a holiday feast or just a busy weeknight, these au gratin potatoes are the perfect addition to your table.

Each bite is filled with cheesy goodness that melts in your mouth, making it hard to resist going back for seconds. Plus, it’s super simple to make! Trust me, once you whip up this dish, you’ll want to keep it as a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few straightforward steps, you can have this delicious side dish ready without breaking a sweat.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will rave about the rich, cheesy flavor. It’s sure to become a favorite!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday celebration, this dish fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready. Less stress for you!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and gruyere creates an unforgettable taste that will leave everyone wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is easy and fun! These simple, wholesome ingredients are often found right in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll 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 any milk you prefer)
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (that’s 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 mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce for a little kick.
• Change the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for unique flavors.
• Layer It Up: Add cooked chicken or mushrooms between the layers for a heartier dish.

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. This ensures that when you put your dish inside, it starts cooking immediately and evenly. Grease your baking dish with nonstick spray or butter so nothing sticks!

Step 2: Layer the Potatoes and Onions

Next, arrange sliced potatoes in slanted rows in your baking dish. Don’t cram them together; allow each slice enough space to breathe. Tuck those onion slices between the potatoes for an extra burst of flavor throughout.

Step 3: Make Your Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in some flour gradually while slowly adding almond milk. This technique creates a smooth sauce without lumps! Bring it all to simmering perfection—it should resemble creamy gravy.

Step 4: Cheese It Up!

Turn down the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste your sauce—this is where you can adjust seasoning if needed! The goal is creamy deliciousness.

Step 5: Pour Over Potatoes

Pour this heavenly sauce over your layered potatoes and onions evenly. Don’t fret if it looks a bit runny; it’ll thicken beautifully while baking!

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking pan tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. This step allows the potatoes to soften perfectly before you add that glorious cheesy topping!

Step 7: Add Toppings and Bake Again

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle gruyere cheese (or more cheddar) along with parmesan on top. Return it to the oven for another 30-45 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Test doneness by poking through the center; if tender, it’s ready!

Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every gooey bite!

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

Making the perfect au gratin potatoes is all about technique and a few handy tips to ensure that every bite is as delicious as possible!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture. They hold up well during baking and provide a buttery flavor that enhances the dish.
• Make sure to slice evenly: Thin, uniform slices (about 1/8 inch thick) ensure even cooking. If some slices are thicker than others, you risk having crunchy pieces mixed with perfectly tender ones.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the dish to sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking helps the sauce thicken up a bit more, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
• Experiment with cheeses: While sharp cheddar and gruyere are fantastic, don’t hesitate to try other cheeses like fontina or gouda for a unique twist! Each cheese brings its own flavor profile and creaminess.
• Cover while baking: Covering the baking dish with foil during the first part of baking keeps moisture in, allowing the potatoes to cook through without drying out. Just remember to uncover for that beautiful golden cheese crust!

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

These creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday feasts. Serving them well can turn this comforting dish into a showstopper!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds color and a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese.
• Extra cheese: A light dusting of additional grated parmesan or cheddar just before serving can make each portion look even more enticing.

Side Dishes

• Steamed green beans: Their crispness provides a lovely crunch that complements the creamy potatoes wonderfully.
• Garlic bread: This classic pairing allows you to soak up any extra creamy sauce left on your plate—a must-have for any carb lover!
• Roasted vegetables: Caramelized carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the au gratin.
• Simple green salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the heaviness of the dish, refreshing your palate between bites.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, making busy days a little easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the au gratin potatoes to cool completely.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the au gratin potatoes cool before freezing.
• Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave; heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until evenly warmed.

FAQs

If you’re wondering more about this delicious recipe, here are some common questions!

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

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour to keep this dish gluten-free while maintaining its creamy goodness.

What cheeses work best in Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

The combination of sharp cheddar and gruyere creates a wonderfully rich flavor. You can also substitute additional sharp cheddar if preferred!

How do I ensure my Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes cook evenly?

Slice your potatoes uniformly to 1/8th inch rounds; this will help them cook evenly. Layer them slightly slanted in the baking dish so they bake thoroughly.

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, filled with memories of family gatherings and comfort food moments. Enjoy every cheesy bite, and please share your experience – I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!