Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is exactly what you need! This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years. The combination of tender potatoes layered with roasted garlic and gooey cheese makes it an irresistible treat. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, this dish always brings everyone together around the table.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and the delightful aroma that fills your home while it bakes. Trust me, the first whiff of those golden potatoes bubbling away will have everyone running to the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish without any fuss.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! This is a surefire hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Rich flavors: The roasted garlic adds such a depth of flavor that elevates your ordinary potato dish into something extraordinary.
• Versatile side: Pair it with any main course—this dish shines alongside roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or even by itself!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is easy as they are all wholesome staples. Here’s what you’ll need for this comforting dish:

For the Potatoes

• 8-9 medium starchy potatoes (about 1.2kg), thinly sliced
• 1 head garlic, cut the top off

For the Creamy Mixture

• 1 cup (250 ml) heavy cream / double cream
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) whole milk
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the baking dish
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/3 tsp dried thyme)
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 cup (40g) grated parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 cups (about 220g) shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh chives, for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is how flexible the recipe can be! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Change up the cheese: Swap Gruyère for cheddar or a blend of your favorites to create unique flavors.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
• Herb swap: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano to find your perfect blend.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is essential because we want our potatoes to bake evenly and get that lovely golden crust on top.

Step 2: Roast the Garlic

Begin by roasting the garlic. Cut the top off the head of garlic to expose those sweet cloves. Wrap it in aluminum foil with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. Roasting transforms garlic into a sweet, mellow delight that will be folded into our creamy sauce later.

Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While your garlic roasts, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with some butter. This will help prevent sticking and ensure every layer comes out perfectly golden.

Step 4: Slice Your Potatoes

Peel and thinly slice those starchy potatoes; using a mandoline slicer helps achieve uniform slices. Consistent thickness means they cook evenly—no one wants unevenly cooked potatoes!

Step 5: Layer Your Potatoes

Arrange stacks of potato slices upright in layers within your greased baking dish. This not only looks beautiful but also allows each slice to soak up all that creamy goodness.

Step 6: Make Your Cream Mixture

In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, butter, half of the grated parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat until everything’s melted together but be careful not to let it boil; we want smoothness without curdling.

Step 7: Incorporate Roasted Garlic

Once your garlic is beautifully roasted and cooled slightly, squeeze out those soft cloves into a bowl and mash them into a paste. Stir this tasty paste into your cream mixture—it’s going to take those flavors over the top!

Step 8: Pour Over Potatoes

Pour that heavenly creamy mixture over your layered potatoes in the baking dish. Make sure every slice gets coated—this ensures maximum flavor!

Step 9: Bake Covered

Cover your dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 40 minutes. This helps steam cook those potatoes until they’re tender.

Step 10: Add Cheese Topping

After 40 minutes have passed, carefully remove foil (watch out for steam!). Now sprinkle on that glorious shredded Gruyère or mozzarella along with remaining parmesan cheese.

Step 11: Bake Uncovered

Return your dish back into the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 30 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 12: Cool Before Serving

Once done baking, let your scrumptious potato au gratin cool for just a few minutes before serving—it’s worth waiting so you don’t burn yourself!

Step 13: Garnish & Enjoy!

Finish off with freshly chopped chives sprinkled on top. Now dig in and enjoy each cheesy bite—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Cooking is all about making it your own, and these tips will help you create the perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin every time!

• Use starchy potatoes: Opt for varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold, as their high starch content helps achieve a creamy texture while baking.

• Don’t rush the garlic roasting: Allowing the garlic to roast slowly brings out its natural sweetness and creates that rich flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.

• Layer potatoes tightly: Arrange the potato slices snugly for even cooking; this ensures every slice gets coated in the creamy sauce and becomes tender.

• Experiment with cheeses: While Gruyère is traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses like aged cheddar or fontina for a unique flavor twist.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to cool for a few minutes lets the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve while enhancing the flavors.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

This dish is not just delicious; it’s also visually stunning! Here are some ideas on how to present your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh chives: Chopped chives add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Parmesan sprinkle: A light dusting of grated parmesan cheese right before serving can elevate both the flavor and presentation.
• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper adds a touch of elegance and a bit of heat to balance out the creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus not only add nutrition but also provide a lovely contrast in texture.

• Green salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the potatoes, offering a refreshing balance on your plate.

• Grilled chicken or fish: Pairing these potatoes with grilled chicken or fish offers protein while keeping the meal light and delightful—perfect for any occasion!

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin will shine at any gathering. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy the comforting flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the baked potatoes au gratin completely.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• For a crispy top, finish under the broiler for a few minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin:

Can I use different types of cheese in Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Absolutely! While Gruyère and mozzarella work wonderfully, you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain flour. Just ensure that all your ingredients, especially any pre-packaged items, are certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin in advance?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time up to the baking step. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh green salad, making it a versatile side for any meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin! This dish is more than just food; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings loved ones together. Enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite and share this delightful recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!