Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that steals the spotlight at any meal, you’ve come to the right place! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are not just any potatoes; they are layers of tender, buttery goodness smothered in a rich cheese sauce. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and every time I make it, I’m transported back to cozy dinners at home.

What makes this dish so special is its versatility. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering, these au gratin potatoes are always a hit. They are creamy, cheesy, and downright delicious—perfect for satisfying everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this comforting side dish without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! This dish is sure to please picky eaters and food lovers alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble everything ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cheeses creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a regular Tuesday night, these au gratin potatoes fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes. These ingredients come together beautifully to create the most delectable cheesy layer of goodness.

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 (or whole wheat, all-purpose, or gluten-free 1:1 flour)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (regular or skim milk works too)
• 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

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

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in thin slices of zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try using mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little kick.
• Herb It Up: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.

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 is crucial because it ensures that your au gratin potatoes cook evenly and achieve that lovely golden crust on top.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 2-quart square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or grease it lightly with butter. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier!

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes and Onions

Place your sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows in the baking dish. Don’t overcrowd them; leave enough space so they can cook thoroughly. Scatter onion slices among the potato layers—this adds sweetness and flavor throughout.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter. Once melted, whisk in a bit of flour until combined. Slowly add almond milk while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Cook until it thickens into a creamy gravy-like consistency—this will be the heart of your cheesy sauce!

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Lower the heat and stir in your shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a taste; adjust seasoning as needed! This step is vital because it infuses every bite with rich flavor.

Step 6: Pour Over Potatoes

Carefully pour your creamy cheese sauce over the layered potatoes and onions. Don’t worry if it looks like there’s too much sauce; it will thicken beautifully while baking.

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover your dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. This helps steam the potatoes until they’re perfectly tender.

Step 8: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After removing the foil, sprinkle gruyere cheese and parmesan generously on top. Return it to the oven for another 30-45 minutes until bubbly and golden brown! The final result should be fork-tender potatoes enveloped in creamy goodness topped with crispy cheese.

Once done, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy this delightful side dish that will surely become a family favorite!

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

Making perfect au gratin potatoes can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips!

• Slice Evenly: Ensure your potato slices are uniform in thickness (about 1/8 inch) to promote even cooking. This will help all the layers cook at the same rate, resulting in creamy, tender potatoes.

• Choose the Right Cheese: Mixing different cheeses, like sharp cheddar and gruyere, adds depth to the flavor. Each cheese brings its own unique taste and texture, making each bite of your au gratin potatoes a delightful experience.

• Whisk Vigorously: When making the sauce, whisk the milk and flour mixture vigorously to prevent lumps. A smooth sauce ensures that every layer of potatoes is coated beautifully and enhances the overall creaminess.

• Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering your dish with foil during the first part of baking traps steam and helps cook the potatoes through before browning them. It prevents the top from burning while ensuring everything cooks evenly.

• Let it Rest: After baking, allow your dish to rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes it easier to portion out without falling apart.

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

Presenting Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes can make a simple meal feel special! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving presentation:

Garnishes

• Fresh Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Chives or Green Onions: Finely chopped chives or green onions can introduce a subtle onion flavor that lifts the dish without overwhelming it.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, adding red pepper flakes as a garnish can bring an extra kick to each creamy bite.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal roasted vegetables—like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers—adds nutrition and balances out the richness of the au gratin.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp lettuce, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy potatoes.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu Skewers: These protein options make for hearty pairings; grilled chicken offers classic flavors while tofu skewers cater perfectly to vegetarian diners.
• Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: Lightly steamed green veggies not only add color but also provide a nutritious element alongside your cheesy delight.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy creating this delicious side dish that is bound to become a favorite at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious, cheesy goodness throughout the week. You can prepare it in advance and store it for later, ensuring you have a comforting side dish ready when you need it.

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

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely and cut it into portions.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• You can also microwave individual portions on high for about 2-3 minutes until warm.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes.

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

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and gruyere provide wonderful flavors, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack to create your own twist on this classic dish.

How do I know when Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are done?

The potatoes are ready when they’re tender and easily pierced with a fork. The top should be golden brown and bubbly, giving you a perfect cheesy crust!

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

Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. This makes it a perfect option for meal prep or holiday gatherings!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes as much as I do! This recipe is not just a side dish; it’s filled with love and comfort that brings family together. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or just indulging on a cozy night in, I’m sure everyone will savor each creamy bite. Happy cooking!

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