Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Cheesy, creamy au gratin potatoes are a classic comfort food that everyone loves! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are not just delicious but also an easy-to-make side dish perfect for any occasion. Whether it is a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe guarantees a rich and cheesy experience in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich in Flavor: The combination of three types of cheese creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making this dish is a breeze.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for holidays, family gatherings, or even weeknight dinners, it complements various main courses.
• Creamy Texture: The homemade sauce ensures that each potato slice is enveloped in creamy goodness.
• Family Favorite: This recipe has been passed down and loved for generations, making it a nostalgic choice.

Tools and Preparation

To make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process more enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking and browning.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps you slice the potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
• Whisk: Using a whisk prevents lumps in your sauce, giving it a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• 6-7 medium yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced into 1/8th inch rounds (3 pounds gold potatoes — by weight is a more accurate measure)
• ½ white or yellow onion, cut into slices

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• ¼ cup all purpose flour (whole wheat, all purpose, or gluten free 1:1 flour will all work)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (regular, skim or whole milk will also work)
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (2 heaping cups shredded cheddar cheese)
• 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

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a 2-quart square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or grease with butter or oil.

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes

Place sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows in the baking dish. Leave enough space between slices so they can cook evenly. Add onion slices in between the rows and on top of the potatoes.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in a little bit of flour at a time while slowly adding milk to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer until it reaches a creamy gravy-like consistency.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Combine with Potatoes

Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the arranged potatoes and onions ensuring they are well covered.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover the pan with foil and bake for about 45 minutes.

Step 7: Final Baking Touches

After removing the foil, sprinkle top of potatoes with gruyere cheese (or more cheddar) and grated parmesan. Return to oven for another 30-45 minutes or until golden brown on top. They are done when easily pierced with a fork. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!

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

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes make a delightful side dish for any meal. Their rich, cheesy flavor pairs well with various main courses and can elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Roasted Chicken

• The savory flavors of roasted chicken complement the creamy potatoes beautifully, making for a comforting meal.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

• A mix of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds freshness and color to your plate while balancing the richness of the au gratin.

Accompany with Beef Tenderloin

• The tenderness and juiciness of beef tenderloin create a satisfying contrast to the creamy texture of the potatoes.

Enjoy alongside Turkey Breast

• This is an excellent option for holiday meals, where the flavors harmonize perfectly with turkey, enhancing the festive spirit.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the dish.

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

To achieve the best results with Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, keep these tips in mind:

• Uniform Potato Slices: Ensuring your potato slices are even (about 1/8 inch) helps them cook evenly, so every bite is tender.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties. Fresh cheese melts better and enhances flavor.
• Taste Before Baking: Always taste your cheese sauce before pouring it over the potatoes. Adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
• Cover During Initial Baking: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking traps steam and helps cook the potatoes thoroughly before browning.
• Let It Rest: Allow the au gratin to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Looking to complete your meal? These side dishes pair wonderfully with Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes:

1. Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic add a fresh element that balances out creaminess.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots provide a nice contrast to savory potatoes and are visually appealing on your plate.
3. Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach complements the cheesy potatoes while offering a burst of color and nutrients.
4. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess, making it an excellent pairing for rich side dishes like au gratin potatoes.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts enhances the dish’s overall taste profile while adding texture.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with grains or veggies offer a hearty option that works well alongside creamy sides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s final outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Using unevenly sliced potatoes: Slicing potatoes inconsistently can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for 1/8th inch rounds for uniform cooking.
• Skipping the cheese sauce seasoning: Neglecting to season your cheese sauce can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Not covering while baking: If you skip covering the dish with foil early on, the top may brown too quickly before the potatoes are tender. Cover it for the first 45 minutes, then uncover to finish baking.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: Piling potatoes too tightly can prevent them from cooking evenly. Arrange them in slanted rows with space for heat circulation.
• Not allowing resting time: Cutting into the dish immediately after baking may cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed. Stir occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes that might help you as you prepare this delicious side dish.

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

Yes, you can prepare everything up to baking and store it in the fridge overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready!

What types of cheese work best?

Sharp cheddar is essential, but you can mix in gouda or mozzarella for additional flavor and creaminess.

How do I know when the potatoes are done?

The potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork, indicating they’re tender throughout.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

While Yukon Golds are perfect, you can use Russet or red potatoes as alternatives, keeping in mind that texture may vary slightly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour, you can make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.

Final Thoughts

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is a classic side dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it ideal for holidays or family dinners. Feel free to customize by adding herbs or different cheeses based on your preferences! Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food that transforms simple ingredients into a rich, indulgent side dish. Perfect for any occasion, this creamy potato bake features layers of thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes enveloped in a savory three-cheese sauce. With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make it a family favorite. Whether served at holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, these cheesy au gratin potatoes are sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6–7 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• ½ white or yellow onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup Gruyere cheese (or more sharp cheddar)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Arrange potato slices and onion in slanted rows in the dish.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour gradually while adding almond milk until smooth; simmer until thickened.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until melted and combined.
5. Pour the cheesy sauce over the potatoes and onions.
6. Cover with foil and bake for about 45 minutes.
7. Remove foil, sprinkle Gruyere and Parmesan on top, then bake uncovered for another 30-45 minutes or until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 40mg