Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes have been a family favorite for as long as I can remember. This recipe is incredibly simple, yet it delivers that rich, cheesy goodness that everyone loves. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, this dish always makes an appearance at our table.

What I adore about these au gratin potatoes is how they effortlessly bring everyone together. The creamy layers of Yukon gold potatoes and three types of cheese create a dish that feels special without all the fuss. Trust me, once you serve this up, it will become a staple in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: With its cheesy flavor and creamy texture, even picky eaters will ask for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile Side Dish: These au gratin potatoes pair well with any main course, from roasted chicken to vegetarian entrees.
• Deliciously Comforting: Each bite is filled with cheesy goodness that brings warmth and comfort to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now, let’s talk about the ingredients! They are simple and wholesome, which means you can feel good about serving them to your loved ones. Here’s what you’ll need to make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes:

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 as substitutes)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk if you prefer)
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (that’s about 2 heaping cups shredded)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper

For Topping

• ½ cup gruyere cheese (or more sharp cheddar if you’re a cheese lover)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan

To Garnish

• Fresh chopped parsley

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Some Veggies: Layer in thinly sliced zucchini or spinach for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Go Spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little kick!
• Mix Up the Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like fontina or mozzarella for unique flavors.
• Herb It Up: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added for an aromatic twist.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This ensures that your au gratin potatoes cook evenly and get nice and bubbly. While that’s heating up, grab your baking dish—about a 2-quart square dish works perfectly!

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes

Next, layer those beautiful sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows in your baking dish. Just remember not to pack them too tightly; they should have a little space between them so they cook perfectly. Sprinkle in those onion slices wherever there’s room—they add wonderful flavor!

Step 3: Make Your Sauce

Now it’s time for the magic! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter. Once melted, whisk in a bit of flour and gradually pour in the almond milk while stirring vigorously. This helps prevent lumps from forming. Bring your mixture to a gentle simmer until it’s nice and creamy—think of it as making a delicious gravy!

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Lower the heat and stir in that shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste it—you deserve to know if it needs more seasoning! Once everything’s combined beautifully, pour this cheesy goodness over your potato layers.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and slide it into the oven for about 45 minutes. This allows the potatoes to steam and soften up nicely.

Step 6: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle on the gruyere cheese and parmesan. Return it to the oven for another 30-45 minutes until everything is golden brown on top. You’ll know they’re done when you can easily pierce through with a fork!

Step 7: Garnish & Enjoy!

Once out of the oven, don’t forget to garnish with fresh chopped parsley! Now grab yourself a plate because it’s time to enjoy Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes—you’ve earned it!

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

Making the perfect creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes is easier than you think, especially with a few helpful tips!

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for au gratin dishes because they hold their shape while becoming tender and creamy. Their natural buttery flavor enhances the overall dish.

• Layering Matters: When layering your potato slices, make sure they are slightly slanted and not too tightly packed. This allows the sauce to seep in between the layers, ensuring every bite is flavorful and creamy.

• Whisk Vigorously: When combining your flour and milk for the sauce, whisk vigorously to avoid lumps. A smooth sauce is crucial for that velvety texture we all love in au gratin potatoes.

• Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste your cheese sauce before pouring it over the potatoes! Adjusting salt and pepper levels during cooking can make a significant difference in flavor.

• Let It Rest: After baking, allow the dish to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set up nicely and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.

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

Presenting this delicious dish is just as important as making it! With a few simple touches, you can elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Fresh Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the cheese.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper adds an aromatic touch that enhances the overall taste.
• Chives or Green Onions: Finely chopped chives or green onions offer a mild onion flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, drizzled with olive oil and roasted until caramelized, provides a colorful and nutritious contrast.

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra cheesy sauce from your au gratin potatoes. Its crunchy texture pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the dish.

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to this rich side. It’s an easy way to add some crunch and nutrition.

• Grilled Chicken or Fish: For those who want a protein boost alongside their au gratin potatoes, grilled chicken breasts or flaky fish fillets make excellent companions that won’t overpower the flavors of the main dish.

Now that you have everything you need to whip up Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, gather your ingredients and enjoy creating this comforting classic that will surely impress your family at dinner time!

Make Ahead and Storage

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up this comforting side dish ahead of time, making weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for about 3-4 days.
• For best results, let the dish cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the au gratin potatoes to cool completely.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions on high for about 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions 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 lend great flavor, you can experiment with your favorite cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a little kick!

How do I ensure my Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes don’t turn out watery?

To prevent excess moisture, make sure to slice your potatoes evenly and avoid overcooking them before baking. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the potatoes without becoming soupy.

What dishes pair well with Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

These au gratin potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad. They’re versatile enough to complement any main dish!

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

Yes! Simply use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour when making the sauce. The recipe is easily adaptable for those with dietary restrictions.

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

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and bake when ready!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes as much as my family does! This recipe brings a delightful warmth to any meal and is packed with cheesy goodness that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any tweaks you made—I would love to hear from you. Happy cooking!