Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul, then you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is a recipe that brings comfort to the dinner table, making it a beloved choice for busy weeknights or festive family gatherings. The creamy layers of potatoes, kissed by the rich flavor of roasted garlic, create a side dish that’s simply irresistible!

This potato dish is not just about taste; it’s also about the joy of sharing something special with loved ones. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty roast or enjoying it as a cozy solo meal, Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin will surely become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! It’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this dish in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted garlic and creamy cheese creates an unforgettable taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for any occasion—from casual dinners to holiday feasts!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. You’ll find everything you need right in your kitchen to whip up this delightful dish!

For the Potatoes

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

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

For the Cheesy Topping

• 1/2 cup (40g) grated parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 cups (about 220g) shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese

For Garnish

• Fresh chives, for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Change Up the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a unique twist!
• Herb Infusion: Try adding other herbs like rosemary or oregano for a fragrant touch.
• Cream Alternatives: If you’re looking for lighter options, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your potatoes will cook evenly and get beautifully golden brown when they bake.

Step 2: Roast the Garlic

Cut off the top of the garlic head to expose those lovely cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap it in foil before placing it in your preheated oven. Roasting brings out the sweetness of garlic and adds a rich depth of flavor that elevates this dish.

Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While your garlic is roasting away, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will prevent sticking and make sure your delicious creation comes out easily once it’s baked.

Step 4: Slice Your Potatoes

Peel and thinly slice those potatoes—using a mandoline slicer helps achieve even thickness! Even slices ensure that all layers cook at the same rate and keeps every bite perfectly tender.

Step 5: Layer Those Potatoes

Stack those potato slices upright in layers within your greased dish. It not only looks beautiful but allows each slice to soak up that creamy goodness as it bakes!

Step 6: Make Your Creamy Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, butter, half of your grated parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed—and remember not to let it boil! This mixture will coat our potatoes beautifully.

Step 7: Mash That Roasted Garlic

Once your garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze those soft cloves out of their skins into a bowl. Mash them into a paste and stir it into your creamy mixture. This step is crucial—roasted garlic adds an incredible depth of flavor that truly makes this dish shine!

Step 8: Pour Over Potatoes

Pour that creamy goodness over your arranged potatoes in the baking dish. Make sure every slice gets coated so they can absorb all that deliciousness while baking!

Step 9: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish tightly with kitchen foil and bake in that preheated oven for about 40 minutes. This steaming process helps cook those potatoes through beautifully.

Step 10: Add Cheese Topping

After baking covered, take off the foil and sprinkle on shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese along with any remaining parmesan cheese. This cheesy topping creates a fantastic crust that will have everyone drooling!

Step 11: Bake Uncovered

Return your dish back into the oven uncovered for another 30 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it—your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!

Step 12: Cool & Serve

Once done, remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Patience pays off here! It lets everything settle so you can serve perfect portions.

Step 13: Garnish & Enjoy!

Finally, sprinkle fresh chives on top just before serving for an added pop of color and flavor. Enjoy every cheesy bite of these delightful Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Creating the perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is all about attention to detail, so here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time!

• Use starchy potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds create a creamier texture, making your gratin extra indulgent and smooth.

• Layer evenly: When stacking your potato slices, try to keep them uniform in thickness. This ensures even cooking and prevents any undercooked or overcooked pieces.

• Don’t skip the roasting garlic step: Roasting the garlic enhances its sweetness and reduces bitterness. This adds a depth of flavor that makes your dish truly memorable.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the gratin to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the layers set and makes slicing much easier. Plus, it allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

• Experiment with cheeses: While Gruyère is traditional, mixing in other cheeses like sharp cheddar or fontina can add exciting flavors and textures to your dish.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

When it’s time to serve your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin, presentation can make all the difference! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game:

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or rosemary on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
• Additional cheese: A light dusting of extra grated parmesan just before serving adds an extra touch of richness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the creamy potatoes nicely while adding a healthy crunch.
• Simple green salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gratin.
• Roasted chicken or turkey: The savory flavors of roasted poultry pair wonderfully with cheesy potatoes, making for a comforting meal.
• Herbed quinoa: A fluffy quinoa side dish seasoned with lemon juice and herbs adds a nutritious element that balances the dish’s heaviness.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends at your next gathering with this delectable Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin recipe is perfect for meal prep and can easily be made ahead of time. It’s a wonderful dish that not only saves you time on busy days but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin.

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

Absolutely! While Gruyère and mozzarella work beautifully, feel free to try other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.

How can I make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute heavy cream and milk with plant-based alternatives such as coconut cream or almond milk. Use vegan butter and cheese as well!

What is the best way to slice potatoes for Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Using a mandoline slicer ensures even, thin slices, which helps them cook uniformly and absorb the creamy garlic mixture perfectly.

Can I prepare Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin in advance?

Yes! This dish is ideal for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!