Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, then you need to try Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes! This recipe has been passed down through our family, and every time I make it, I can’t help but feel warm and nostalgic. The combination of three types of cheese gives it a deliciously rich flavor that pairs perfectly with any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these au gratin potatoes are sure to be the star of the table.

What makes this dish even more special is how easy it is to prepare. You’ll find yourself whipping it up in no time, and your loved ones will be begging for seconds. Trust me; once you serve this dish, it will become a favorite in your home just like it is in mine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy goodness.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps, you’ll have this dish ready for the oven in no time.
• Perfect for any occasion: Great for holidays, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners.
• Make-ahead convenience: Assemble ahead of time and bake when you’re ready!
• Delicious flavor: Three types of cheese create layers of rich taste in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is a breeze! These simple and wholesome items come together to create a dish that’s sure to impress. 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 works too)
• 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 more sharp cheddar)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan

To Garnish

• Fresh chopped parsley

Variations

This recipe is flexible and can easily be adapted to suit your taste! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Mix up the cheeses: Try using different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Layer in veggies: Add thinly sliced zucchini or bell peppers between the potato layers for extra flavor.
• Spice it up: Incorporate red pepper flakes or jalapeños if you like a little heat!

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 beautifully golden on top.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Next, spray a 2-quart square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or grease it with butter or oil. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier later on.

Step 3: Arrange the Potatoes and Onions

Place your sliced potatoes in three tightly slanted rows in the baking dish. Don’t pack them too tightly; you want each slice to be slightly slanted for even cooking. Sprinkle those lovely onion slices in between the potatoes wherever you can fit them—this adds wonderful flavor!

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

Now it’s sauce time! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter. Once melted, whisk in a bit of flour at a time while gradually adding the almond milk. Keep whisking until there are no lumps left—this should resemble creamy gravy when done! Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste it—if it needs more seasoning, don’t hesitate to adjust!

Step 5: Pour Over Potatoes

Carefully pour that creamy sauce evenly over your arranged potatoes and onions. Don’t worry if it seems like too much—it’ll thicken up beautifully while baking.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and pop it into the oven for about 45 minutes. This step allows your potatoes to steam until tender.

Step 7: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle gruyere cheese and parmesan on top. Return it to the oven uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown on top. The potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork.

Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, take your au gratin potatoes out of the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm, savor every cheesy bite, and enjoy sharing this delightful dish with family and friends!

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

Making the perfect au gratin potatoes is all about technique and a little bit of love! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious.

• Slice Evenly: Cutting your potatoes into uniform 1/8th inch rounds ensures they cook evenly. This helps achieve that perfect tender texture throughout the dish.

• Use Fresh Cheese: Opt for freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties. Fresh cheese melts better and gives a richer flavor, enhancing the overall creaminess of your au gratin.

• Don’t Skip the Soak: If you have time, soak your sliced potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes before baking. This removes excess starch and helps prevent them from becoming gluey during cooking.

• Layer Flavors: Feel free to sprinkle some chopped garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary between the layers of potatoes for an extra depth of flavor. It adds a lovely aromatic quality that complements the dish perfectly.

• Check Doneness with a Fork: Always test doneness by piercing the center with a fork. The potatoes should be tender but still hold their shape, making for a beautifully layered presentation.

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

Serving Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes can be as simple or as fancy as you want! They’re versatile enough to pair with many dishes, making them a wonderful centerpiece for any meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a hint of freshness that brightens up the rich flavors.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper on top before serving enhances the flavor profile and adds a little kick.
• Chives or Green Onions: Finely chopped chives or green onions bring a mild onion flavor that complements the richness without overpowering it.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provides a sweet contrast to the creamy potatoes and adds nutritional balance.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a zesty vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the au gratin, offering refreshing crunch.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu: For protein lovers, grilled chicken or marinated tofu can add heartiness to the meal while remaining complementary in flavor to the cheesy goodness.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli is not only nutritious but also provides a beautiful color contrast against the golden-brown top of your potatoes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have everything you need to wow your family and friends with Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are not just a delicious side dish; they are also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance, making weeknight dinners or holiday feasts much simpler. Here’s how to keep them fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the au gratin potatoes to cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the potatoes cool down to room temperature before freezing.
• Cut them into portions that fit your meal needs.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen potatoes overnight in the refrigerator if possible.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the au gratin potatoes in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes that you might be wondering about:

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

Yes! While Yukon golds provide a creamy texture, you can experiment with russet or red potatoes. Just ensure they are thinly sliced for even cooking.

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

You can prepare all components up to the baking stage, cover with foil, and store in the fridge. Bake when you’re ready to serve!

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

These potatoes pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad. They complement any main dish wonderfully!

Can I add more cheese to Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes as much as my family does! This recipe not only brings comfort with every cheesy bite but also creates wonderful memories around the dinner table. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful side dish at your next gathering – it’s sure to impress everyone. Happy cooking!