Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Cheesy and creamy, Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are an irresistible side dish that elevates any meal. This recipe combines three types of cheese with thinly sliced potatoes to create a delightful texture and flavor. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or simply a cozy dinner at home, these au gratin potatoes will be a hit at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and gruyere cheese creates a deliciously cheesy experience.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for pairing with meats or served vegetarian-style for a hearty meal.
• Perfect for Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for holidays or special occasions.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when you’re ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick baking dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick baking dish: Prevents sticking and ensures easy serving after baking.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth sauce by mixing ingredients thoroughly without lumps.

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

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes and Onions

Place sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows in the baking dish. Ensure they are slightly slanted and leave space between them. Add onion slices in between and on top of the potatoes where possible.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter.
1. Whisk in a small amount of flour, then slowly add almond milk little by little while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer until it resembles creamy gravy consistency.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

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

Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Potatoes

Evenly pour the sauce over the arranged potatoes and onions, ensuring they are well covered. Don’t worry; it will become creamy during baking.

Step 6: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 7: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil. Sprinkle shredded gruyere cheese (or additional cheddar) and grated parmesan on top. Return to oven; bake for another 30-45 minutes until golden brown on top. Check doneness by piercing with a fork; it should go through easily.

Once baked to perfection, remove from oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving! Enjoy your delicious Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes!

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

Serving Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, these cheesy potatoes make a perfect companion to various dishes.

With Roasted Chicken

• The savory flavors of roasted chicken pair wonderfully with the creamy texture of the au gratin potatoes. A sprinkle of herbs on the chicken enhances the meal.

As a Side for Grilled Steak

• Juicy grilled steak and cheesy au gratin potatoes create a hearty and satisfying combination. The richness of the cheese complements the meat perfectly.

Paired with Steamed Vegetables

• Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add freshness and balance to the rich flavors of the potatoes, making for a well-rounded plate.

Alongside Turkey Breast

• For those special occasions, serving these potatoes with turkey breast creates a comforting holiday vibe. The creaminess adds depth to the turkey’s flavor.

With a Fresh Garden Salad

• A crisp garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy potatoes. Choose vibrant veggies for extra color and crunch.

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

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

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are perfect due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor, making them ideal for au gratin dishes.

• Layer Ingredients Wisely: Alternate layers of potatoes and onions for even cooking and flavor distribution. This ensures that every bite is delicious.

• Whisk Sauce Vigorously: When making your cheese sauce, whisk vigorously to prevent lumps. A smooth sauce is key to achieving that creamy consistency.

• Don’t Skip the Toppings: Adding gruyere and parmesan on top creates a beautiful golden crust. This adds both flavor and visual appeal to your dish.

• Allow for Resting Time: Letting your dish sit for 10-15 minutes after baking allows it to set, making it easier to serve without falling apart.

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

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears tossed in olive oil and grilled until slightly charred add a nice crunch alongside the creamy potatoes.

2. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread makes for a comforting addition, perfect for scooping up any leftover cheese sauce on your plate.

3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a zesty contrast to the rich flavors of the au gratin dish.

4. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed with honey offer a lovely balance between sweetness and creaminess, enhancing your overall dining experience.

5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds brightness and crunch, cutting through the richness of the cheesy potatoes nicely.

6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned Brussels sprouts roasted until crispy provide earthy flavors that pair well with cheesy goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not slicing potatoes evenly: Uneven slices can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for uniform 1/8 inch rounds to ensure all pieces cook at the same rate.
• Skipping the onion: The onion adds depth and flavor. Don’t omit it; include it between potato layers for the best taste.
• Adding cheese too early: Adding cheese to the sauce before it thickens can result in a grainy texture. Wait until your sauce is creamy before stirring in the cheese.
• Overcrowding the dish: If you pack the potatoes too tightly, they won’t cook evenly. Arrange them with a slight slant for optimal cooking and creaminess.
• Neglecting seasoning: Seasoning is key for flavor. Taste your sauce before pouring it over the potatoes and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
• Best if used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of almond milk if necessary to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes:

Can I customize Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

Yes! You can add different vegetables like spinach or broccoli, or use various cheeses based on your preference.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour (1:1) for the sauce without affecting taste or texture.

What type of potatoes should I use?

Yukon gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture, but russet potatoes also work well if that’s what you have on hand.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything a day prior, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

How do I ensure my au gratin potatoes are creamy?

Make sure to whisk your sauce thoroughly and pour it evenly over the potatoes before baking for a creamy finish.

Final Thoughts

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This dish is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply a comforting dinner at home. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or adjust seasonings as you like. Enjoy this cheesy delight with family and friends!