Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that steals the show, look no further than Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes! This recipe is a treasured family favorite, packed with cheesy goodness and layers of tender potatoes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion when you want to impress your loved ones. The creamy sauce and melty cheeses make this dish an absolute delight that everyone will crave.

What makes this recipe even more special is the way it brings us all together around the dinner table. There’s something about the aroma of baking potatoes and cheese wafting through the house that just feels like home. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why my dad always made this dish for us!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and ingredients, you’ll have this delicious side ready in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike can’t resist cheesy potatoes—it’s a guaranteed hit at any meal!
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time to enjoy later; these au gratin potatoes reheat beautifully.
• Versatile option: Pair it with almost anything—grilled veggies, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad.
• Comfort food classic: This dish is not just food; it’s pure comfort wrapped in creamy, cheesy layers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delightful au gratin potatoes. You might already have some of these in your kitchen!

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste.

• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with gouda or mozzarella for a unique twist on flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Switch up the herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic touch that enhances the dish.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. This ensures that our au gratin potatoes cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown top!

Step 2: Layer the Potatoes and Onions

In a greased baking dish, arrange your sliced yukon gold potatoes in three tight slanted rows. Be careful not to overcrowd them—this allows for even cooking and helps each slice absorb that yummy sauce. Scatter the onion slices between the rows; they’ll add flavor as they caramelize during baking.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Melt butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Once melted, whisk in flour gradually while adding almond milk bit by bit. This technique helps avoid lumps and achieves a smooth consistency similar to creamy gravy. Bring it to simmering point before adding shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Pour Over Potatoes

Once your sauce is smooth and cheesy, pour it evenly over the layered potatoes and onions. Don’t fret about covering every slice perfectly—the baking process will help everything blend beautifully!

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. This steams the potatoes first so they can soften perfectly before we add our crispy topping.

Step 6: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle gruyere cheese (or more cheddar) along with parmesan on top. Pop it back in the oven uncovered for another 30-45 minutes until golden brown on top and fork-tender in the center.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Remove from the oven once done and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color. Serve warm alongside your favorite main dishes—and watch everyone dig in happily! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

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

Making the perfect au gratin potatoes is easier than you might think! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious.

• Use a mandoline for even slicing: Consistent potato thickness ensures that all slices cook evenly. A mandoline slicer can help you achieve those perfectly thin rounds without any hassle.
• Let the sauce simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer will enhance the flavors and help it thicken, giving you that rich, creamy texture that coats the potatoes beautifully.
• Don’t skip the foil: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking traps steam and helps the potatoes cook through without drying out. This step is crucial for achieving tender potatoes!
• Add cheese gradually: When incorporating cheese into the sauce, add it slowly while stirring. This prevents clumping and allows for a smoother, creamier cheese sauce that envelops each potato slice perfectly.
• Rest before serving: Letting the dish sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking allows it to set up a bit. This makes serving easier and helps maintain the structure of those cheesy layers.

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

Serving Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is just as fun as making them! You can present this comforting dish in various ways to impress your family and guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh chopped chives: A sprinkle of chopped chives adds a lovely pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Crumbled crispy breadcrumbs: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving. It adds texture and enhances the overall taste.
• Sliced green onions: These not only add a vibrant touch but also provide a fresh bite that balances the creaminess of the potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts contrasts wonderfully with the rich flavors of au gratin potatoes, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Garlic sautéed spinach: This quick side dish is packed with nutrients and its earthy taste pairs beautifully with cheesy potatoes.
• Grilled asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus offers a fresh crunch, making it an excellent complement to creamy dishes like these au gratin potatoes.
• Simple mixed green salad: A refreshing salad with vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the heaviness of the potatoes, balancing your plate perfectly.

Now you’re ready to serve up Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes in style! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes ahead of time, saving you effort on busy days while ensuring that you still enjoy a comforting and delicious side dish.

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 days.

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers.
• Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes, or until bubbly and hot.
• For quicker reheating, use the microwave, heating in intervals and stirring occasionally.

FAQs

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

Can I use other types of cheese for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and gruyere are fantastic choices, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a little kick!

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

Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend. This will maintain the creamy texture while keeping it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I prepare Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes without using dairy?

Yes! You can use plant-based milk alternatives like coconut or soy milk along with dairy-free cheese options to create a delicious non-dairy version.

How long does it take to bake Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

The total baking time is about 75 minutes—45 minutes covered and an additional 30-45 minutes uncovered until they reach that perfect golden brown crust.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes just as much as we do! This recipe is special because it combines simple ingredients into something extraordinary that brings everyone together at the table. Enjoy every cheesy bite and remember, this dish is perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Happy cooking!