Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Cheesy, creamy au gratin potatoes made with three types of cheese create a side dish everyone will love. Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are easy to make and filled with cheesy goodness in every bite. Perfect for holidays or any gathering, this recipe offers comfort and flavor that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and gruyere cheese provides a rich, creamy taste that is hard to resist.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Side Dish: These au gratin potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes, making them an excellent choice for any occasion.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare this dish in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests without the stress of last-minute cooking.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This comforting side dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering, from family dinners to holiday feasts.

Tools and Preparation

To create Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, you will need a few essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 2-quart square baking dish
• Nonstick cooking spray or butter
• Whisk
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of the potatoes.
• Whisk: Helps create a lump-free cheese sauce for that perfect creamy texture.
• Sharp Knife: Makes slicing potatoes quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

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 sub 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 your 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

Place sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows in the baking dish. Be careful not to overcrowd them; leave enough space so the potato slices can sit slightly slanted. Add onion slices between the rows and on top of the potatoes wherever you can fit them.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Add the butter to a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in a bit of flour before slowly adding in almond milk, alternating with flour while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Bring this mixture to a simmer; it should resemble creamy gravy.

Step 4: Combine Cheese and Seasoning

Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste your sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Pour Over Potatoes

Evenly pour the sauce over your arranged potatoes and onions to fully cover them. Don’t worry; it will become nice and creamy during baking.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your pan with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 7: Add Toppings

After 45 minutes, remove the foil. Sprinkle the top of your potatoes with gruyere cheese (or more sharp cheddar) and parmesan. Return it to the oven for an additional 30-45 minutes until golden brown on top. The potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy!

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

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs well with various main courses. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a family dinner, these potatoes can complement your meal beautifully.

With Roasted Chicken

• Juicy roasted chicken enhances the creamy texture of the au gratin potatoes, creating a comforting plate.

Alongside Grilled Turkey

• The smoky flavor of grilled turkey balances the richness of the cheesy potatoes for a satisfying combination.

As Part of a Holiday Spread

• Serve these au gratin potatoes alongside traditional holiday dishes like turkey or lamb for a festive touch.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair with a light garden salad to add freshness and crunch, balancing out the creaminess of the dish.

Next to Steamed Vegetables

• Complement your meal with steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrients and color on your plate.

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

Getting the perfect texture and flavor in Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is all about technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time.

• Slice Potatoes Evenly: Make sure all potato slices are uniform in thickness. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture.

• Use Fresh Cheese: Opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded. It melts better and gives richer flavor.

• Add Extra Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste your sauce before pouring it over the potatoes. Adjust salt and pepper as needed for the best flavor.

• Cover While Baking: Keeping the dish covered with foil for part of the baking process helps retain moisture, making your potatoes tender.

• Broil for Crispiness: If you desire an extra crispy top, broil the dish for a few minutes after baking to achieve that golden finish.

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

When serving Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, consider pairing them with other delicious side dishes that enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized sprouts add a nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of au gratin potatoes.

2. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans provide a fresh and vibrant contrast to the rich potatoes.

3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing, perfect for cutting through the richness.

4. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots offer a delightful balance of flavors when paired with cheesy potatoes.

5. Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa tossed with herbs makes for a nutritious option alongside this rich side dish.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with grains or vegetables can be a hearty complement to creamy potatoes.

7. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives and feta brings Mediterranean flair, enhancing your meal’s variety.

8. Balsamic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables drizzled with balsamic adds sweetness that pairs nicely with cheesy goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly Overpacking the Potatoes: If you place the potato slices too tightly together, they won’t cook evenly. Ensure there’s space between the slices for even cooking.
• Boldly Skipping the Sauce Consistency Check: Not whisking the sauce properly can lead to lumps. Make sure to whisk thoroughly until smooth before pouring it over the potatoes.
• Boldly Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland potatoes. Always taste your sauce before pouring it over the potatoes and add more salt or pepper as needed.
• Boldly Neglecting Oven Temperature: Baking at too high a temperature can burn the top while leaving potatoes undercooked. Stick to the recommended 375 degrees F for best results.
• Boldly Not Covering Initially: Skipping the foil cover during the first part of baking can dry out your dish. Always cover with foil initially to retain moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.
• Allow potatoes to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Portion into smaller containers for easier thawing later.

Reheating Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Bold Oven: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Bold Microwave: Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat gently on low in a skillet, adding a splash of milk if needed to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes.

How do I ensure my Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are creamy?

To achieve creaminess, ensure you use enough milk and cheese in your sauce. Whisk continuously while adding ingredients for a smooth consistency.

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

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Yukon gold potatoes are ideal due to their buttery flavor and creamy texture. However, you can also use red potatoes if preferred.

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

Yes! You can prepare everything up to baking, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is an incredibly versatile dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its cheesy goodness and creamy texture, it’s perfect for holidays or everyday dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!