Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that delivers on both comfort and flavor, let me introduce you to Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and every time I make it, I’m reminded of family gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food. The creamy, cheesy sauce enveloping the tender potatoes is nothing short of heavenly. It’s the perfect accompaniment for any meal, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast.

What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity and the delightful blend of flavors. With three types of cheese creating a rich and indulgent taste, it truly is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up—your family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! It’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and bake it just before serving, saving you precious minutes during meal prep.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar, gruyere, and parmesan creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
• Versatile side dish: Whether it’s served at holidays or casual dinners, these au gratin potatoes fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, you’ll only need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are probably already in your kitchen. Gather these up before you get started:

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)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk if preferred)
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 heaping cups)
• 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

What I adore about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize these au gratin potatoes to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add veggies: Consider layering in some greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Herb infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
• Different cheeses: Mix in your favorite cheeses—like fontina or mozzarella—for unique twists.

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that when your dish goes in, it starts cooking right away for that perfect golden finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 2-quart square baking dish (an 8×12 works well too) with nonstick cooking spray or grease it with butter or oil. This step is essential; it keeps those cheesy layers from sticking!

Step 3: Arrange the Potatoes and Onions

Now comes the fun part! Place your sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows in the baking dish. Don’t rush this—you want them to be slightly slanted to allow even cooking. Sprinkle onion slices between and on top where you can fit them; they will add so much flavor as they cook down.

Step 4: Make Your Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in a bit of flour at a time while slowly adding almond milk. Keep whisking until you eliminate any lumps—this helps achieve that velvety consistency we all crave! Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer; think creamy gravy texture.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Turn down the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning if needed; this step brings out all those wonderful flavors.

Step 6: Pour Over Potatoes

Now pour your creamy sauce evenly over the arranged potatoes and onions. Don’t worry if it looks thin—it will thicken beautifully while baking!

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil to help trap steam while baking. Pop it into the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.

Step 8: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil carefully (watch out for steam!). Sprinkle gruyere cheese and parmesan over the top. Return to the oven without foil for another 30-45 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown on top. The potatoes are done when they’re tender enough to pierce with a fork.

Step 9: Garnish & Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for that lovely finishing touch. Now you’re ready to dig in! Enjoy every creamy bite of Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes—your loved ones will be raving about them!

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

Making the perfect au gratin potatoes is all about attention to detail, and I’ve got some tips to help you achieve that creamy, cheesy goodness!

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture, making them ideal for au gratin dishes as they hold their shape while becoming tender.
• Layer the Ingredients: Take your time to layer the potatoes and onions tightly but not overcrowded. This ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Whisk Smoothly: When making the cheese sauce, whisk vigorously to prevent lumps. A smooth sauce is key to achieving that creamy consistency that coats each potato slice perfectly.
• Don’t Rush the Baking: Allow your dish to bake covered initially; this helps steam the potatoes until they are tender. Removing the foil later gives you that glorious golden brown finish on top.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your cheese sauce before pouring it over the potatoes. Adjusting salt and pepper will enhance the overall flavor of your dish, making every bite delicious.

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

Presentation is key when serving this delightful cheesy dish! Here are some ideas on how to make it shine at your dining table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances out the rich flavors.
• Chives or Green Onions: Thinly sliced chives or green onions bring a mild onion flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green veggie provides a healthy crunch and contrasts nicely with the rich, creamy potatoes.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add a lovely color contrast and their natural sweetness pairs well with the savory flavors of the au gratin.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can brighten up your meal and offer a refreshing bite alongside those cheesy potatoes.
• Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor from grilled asparagus enhances the overall meal experience, providing a deliciously different texture next to your creamy side dish.

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

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious au gratin potatoes throughout the week without the fuss of making them from scratch every time!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out the leftovers into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or place directly in a preheated oven and heat for 30-40 minutes, covered.

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 are recommended for their flavor, you can substitute with your favorite cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.

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

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

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

Yes! You can slice the potatoes and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just assemble everything in your baking dish and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake!

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

These potatoes make a fantastic side dish alongside roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad. They truly complement a wide variety of mains!

How do I know when Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are done baking?

The potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork and have turned golden brown on top. Baking times may vary depending on your oven.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes as much as my family does! This recipe has a way of bringing everyone together around the dinner table, filled with love and warmth. Don’t hesitate to try it out; I’m sure it will become a cherished favorite in your home too. Happy cooking!