Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that warms the heart and pleases the palate, then you’ve come to the right place! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are a family favorite that we enjoy at every gathering. This recipe is special to me because it brings back fond memories of my dad cooking in the kitchen, filling our home with that irresistible cheesy aroma. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, this dish always hits the spot!

The best part? It’s straightforward to make, and you’ll impress everyone with its creamy texture and rich flavor. Trust me; once you try these au gratin potatoes, they will become a staple in your household too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike love this cheesy comfort food, making it perfect for family meals.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep it ahead of time for stress-free entertaining. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready!
• Layered flavor: Three types of cheese create an explosion of flavor that makes each bite unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, ensuring that your au gratin potatoes are not only delicious but also made with love. Gather these items for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes:

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 flour if preferred)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (regular milk works too)
• 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 more sharp cheddar)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan

To Garnish

• Fresh chopped parsley

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try to customize your au gratin potatoes:

• Add some veggies: Incorporate spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a kick.
• Try different cheeses: Swap out gruyere for mozzarella or gouda to explore new flavors.
• Mix in proteins: Add cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier dish that’s great as a main course.

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This step is essential as it ensures even cooking from the start. While the oven heats up, you can prepare your baking dish.

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes and Onions

Spray a 2-quart square baking dish with nonstick spray or grease it with butter. Layer sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows, leaving enough space between them for air circulation. Nestle onion slices among the potato layers for added flavor.

Step 3: Make Your Creamy Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Once melted, whisk in a bit of flour before gradually adding almond milk while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Bring this mixture to a simmer until it’s creamy—like gravy!

Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Seasonings

Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Tasting at this stage is crucial; adjust seasonings as needed for your desired flavor.

Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Potatoes

Pour your rich sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and onions. Don’t worry—the magic happens during baking when everything becomes beautifully creamy!

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Keeping it covered helps steam the potatoes until they’re tender.

Step 7: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle gruyere and parmesan on top. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for another 30-45 minutes until golden brown on top. The potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork.

Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy!

Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy every cheesy bite of Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes!

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

Making the perfect au gratin potatoes is all about technique and love, so here are some tips to help you shine in the kitchen!

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes have a creamy texture that holds up beautifully when baked. They also provide a naturally buttery flavor that enhances the dish.

• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Take your time when making the creamy sauce. Whisking slowly allows the flour to blend perfectly with the butter and milk, ensuring there are no lumps for a smooth, velvety texture.

• Layer Wisely: When layering the potato slices and onions, make sure they’re slightly slanted. This not only adds visual appeal but also helps with even cooking and ensures every bite is filled with flavor.

• Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste your sauce before pouring it over the potatoes! Adjusting salt and pepper at this stage will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.

• Let it Rest: After baking, let your au gratin potatoes sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the layers to set and makes it easier to serve.

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

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this delightful dish! Here are some ideas on how to make your au gratin potatoes look as delicious as they taste.

Garnishes

• Fresh Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the cheese.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving adds an extra layer of warmth and spice.
• Chives or Green Onions: Finely chopped chives or green onions can bring a mild onion flavor that brightens up each forkful.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The crisp texture and garlicky goodness of roasted asparagus pair wonderfully with creamy potatoes, offering a nice contrast.
• Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Zest: Bright green steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice provides a refreshing balance against the richness of au gratin potatoes.
• Simple Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes brings crunch and acidity that perfectly cuts through the creaminess of the dish.
• Herb-Crusted Baked Chicken: The savory flavors of herb-crusted chicken complement these cheesy potatoes beautifully, creating a comforting dinner plate everyone will love.

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re an experience filled with warmth, nostalgia, and comfort. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your table! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the au gratin potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date, so you know when it was made.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then cut into portions.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• To reheat refrigerated au gratin potatoes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the dish in the oven covered with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-60 minutes.

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 work wonderfully, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.

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

These au gratin potatoes are a fantastic side dish that pairs well with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh garden salad. They complement many main courses beautifully!

How do I ensure my Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes turn out creamy?

To achieve that creamy texture, make sure to whisk your sauce thoroughly while adding the milk gradually. Also, using high-quality cheese will enhance its creaminess.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes as much as my family does! This recipe is filled with love and cheesy goodness that brings everyone together. Whether you’re serving it on a holiday table or as a comforting weeknight side dish, it’s bound to be a hit. Happy cooking!