Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is a recipe that has been cherished in my family for years. This dish is not just about potatoes; it’s about love, comfort, and those special moments spent around the dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these cheesy potatoes are always a hit.

The combination of three types of cheese makes each bite deeply satisfying and full of flavor. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare that you’ll want to make it again and again! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite in your home too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-Friendly Delight: Kids and adults alike will enjoy every cheesy bite!
• Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, you can have this delicious side dish ready without fuss.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile Occasion: Great for holidays, potlucks, or simply as a comforting addition to any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! Every item adds to the creamy goodness of Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 (whole wheat or gluten-free 1:1 flour also works)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)
• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.

• Add Greenery: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale between the layers for added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Change the Cheese: Use your favorite cheese combinations—Monterey Jack or gouda work wonderfully!
• Make It Herbaceous: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.

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 step ensures that your potatoes bake evenly and come out perfectly creamy and golden brown.

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes and Onions

Spray a 2-quart square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or grease it with butter. Layer your sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows. Don’t pack them too tightly; leave some space so they can cook evenly. Scatter those lovely onion slices throughout—this adds flavor and sweetness as they cook!

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in a bit of flour before gradually adding in the almond milk while whisking vigorously. This helps prevent lumps from forming. Bring this mixture to a simmer; aim for a creamy gravy-like consistency.

Step 4: Add Flavorful Goodness

Reduce the heat to low and stir in your shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste your sauce—this is where you can adjust the seasoning if needed!

Step 5: Pour It All Together

Now pour that luscious sauce evenly over your arranged potatoes and onions. Don’t fret—the magic happens while baking!

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. This helps steam the potatoes so they become tender while soaking up all those delightful flavors.

Step 7: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle on your gruyere cheese and grated parmesan on top. Pop it back into the oven uncovered for another 30-45 minutes until everything is golden brown and bubbly. You’ll know it’s done when you can easily pierce through the middle with a fork!

Step 8: Serve With Love

Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy every cheesy bite with family and friends!

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

Making au gratin potatoes can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they’re creamy and flavorful. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the cheese sauce.

• Slice potatoes evenly: Aim for uniform 1/8th inch rounds to ensure even cooking. This helps every slice to become tender and soak up that cheesy goodness.

• Whisk vigorously: When preparing your sauce, whisking well helps prevent lumps from forming. A smooth sauce guarantees a delicious, creamy texture throughout the dish.

• Layer thoughtfully: Arrange the potato slices in layers, interspersed with onion slices. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that every bite is packed with taste.

• Let it rest before serving: Once out of the oven, let your au gratin potatoes sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for easier slicing.

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

When it comes to presenting Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, think comfort food elegance! This dish is as eye-catching as it is delicious, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.

Garnishes

To elevate your au gratin potatoes, consider these simple yet effective garnishes:

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.

• Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper provides a subtle kick that complements the creaminess of the dish.

Side Dishes

Pairing side dishes with your au gratin potatoes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add freshness and a vibrant color contrast, balancing out the richness of the potatoes.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized bites bring earthy flavors that pair beautifully with cheesy dishes. Simply toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until golden.

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy textures of the au gratin. It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce!

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness to your plate, helping to cut through the richness of the dish and refreshing your palate.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll be ready to impress friends and family alike with a truly unforgettable meal! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, so it’s ready to go for busy weeknights or special occasions. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the dish with foil and reheat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• For frozen au gratin potatoes, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the reheating instructions above.

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! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Just keep in mind that sharper cheeses will provide a more pronounced flavor.

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

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

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

These cheesy potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad. They make an excellent side dish for any meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes as much as my family does! This recipe is not just about delicious flavors; it brings back warm memories of family gatherings and happy times around the table. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a beloved addition to your meal rotation too. Happy cooking!