Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is my go-to comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or when entertaining friends. This recipe combines layers of tender potatoes with the rich flavor of roasted garlic, all enveloped in creamy, cheesy goodness. Trust me, it’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

What I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight dinner or celebrating a special occasion, these potatoes are always a hit. They are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy your company.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of roasted garlic and creamy cheese is simply irresistible.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning dish.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes, making this a great choice for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble it in advance and bake when you’re ready to serve!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight meal, this dish fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin. You’ll find that these items are easy to work with and packed with flavor!

For the Potatoes

• 8-9 medium starchy potatoes (about 1.2kg), thinly sliced
• 1 head garlic, cut the top off

For the Creamy Mixture

• 1 cup (250 ml) heavy cream / double cream
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) whole milk
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the baking dish
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/3 tsp dried thyme)
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

For the Cheesy Topping

• 1/2 cup (40g) grated parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 cups (about 220g) shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives, for garnish

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! There are many ways to adapt Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Add Veggies: Incorporate spinach or sautéed mushrooms between the layers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Change the Cheese: Try using sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a different twist on taste.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute heavy cream and milk with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cheese.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an extra kick!

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roasting garlic brings out its natural sweetness and adds depth to our dish. Cut the top off the head of garlic and drizzle it with olive oil before wrapping it in foil. Roast it in the oven for about 30 minutes until it’s soft and golden. Let it cool before handling; this will make mashing easier!

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While your garlic roasts, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with some unsalted butter. This step ensures that your potatoes won’t stick during baking. Set aside as we move on to slicing those lovely potatoes.

Step 3: Slice the Potatoes

Peel and thinly slice your starchy potatoes; using a mandoline slicer here will help achieve even slices. Even layers allow for consistent cooking throughout your dish, ensuring every bite is just as delicious as the last.

Step 4: Layering Your Dish

Take stacks of potato slices and arrange them upright in layers within your baking dish. This method not only looks beautiful but also allows each slice to soak up all that creamy goodness later on!

Step 5: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, butter, half of the grated parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Heating gently until combined but not boiling helps create that luscious creamy base we’re after.

Step 6: Mash the Garlic

Once roasted garlic has cooled slightly, squeeze those sweet cloves out of their skins into a bowl and mash them into a paste. Stir this delightful paste into your cream mixture until well combined; this step is key for infusing that glorious roasted garlic flavor throughout our potatoes.

Step 7: Assemble & Bake

Pour that creamy mixture over your layered potatoes in the baking dish so they are nicely coated. Cover tightly with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 40 minutes. This steam will help cook those potatoes perfectly!

Step 8: Add Cheese & Finish Baking

After 40 minutes have passed, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese along with any remaining parmesan on top. Return to the oven uncovered for another 30 minutes until everything is bubbling and beautifully golden brown.

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Once done baking, let your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin cool for just a few minutes before serving—this helps everything set up nicely! Garnish with fresh chives for an aromatic touch and enjoy every cheesy bite!

With these steps laid out simply, I hope you find joy in making this wonderful dish as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Creating the perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious.

• Use starchy potatoes: Opt for starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds, as they yield a creamier texture when baked.
• Slice evenly: Aim for uniform slices (about 1/8 inch thick) using a mandoline or a sharp knife. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Don’t rush the garlic roasting: Take your time roasting the garlic to unlock its sweet, caramelized flavors. Soft, golden cloves will impart a rich depth to your cream mixture.
• Layer properly: When layering the potatoes, alternate directions slightly with each layer. This creates more surface area for the creamy sauce to cling to and promotes even cooking.
• Let it rest: After baking, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting period helps the layers set and makes for cleaner slices.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Presenting your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin beautifully can elevate this already stunning dish. Here are some ideas on how to serve it up!

Garnishes

• Fresh chives: Chopped fresh chives add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the cheese.
• Crumbled feta or goat cheese: A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese can introduce a tangy contrast to the creamy layers.
• Pine nuts: Toasted pine nuts add crunch and an earthy flavor that enhances the overall experience.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers pairs perfectly with the richness of potatoes au gratin and adds vibrant colors to your plate.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy potatoes.
• Grilled chicken or fish: Adding grilled chicken breast or flaky fish such as salmon creates a wholesome meal that’s balanced in flavors and textures.
• Steamed asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil is not only visually appealing but also adds a crisp element that complements the softness of the gratin.

Now you’re all set! Enjoy serving this delightful dish at your next family gathering or cozy night in. It’s sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is not only a delightful dish to serve fresh from the oven but also an excellent choice for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance, making your weeknight dinners or gatherings even easier!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the baked potatoes au gratin cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap followed by foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. Remove foil during the last 5 minutes for a crispy top.

FAQs

Have questions about Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might help you out.

Can I use other types of cheese in Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Absolutely! While Gruyère and mozzarella create a lovely blend, you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar or fontina for different flavor profiles. Just ensure they melt well!

How do I make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin gluten-free?

This recipe is inherently gluten-free, as it doesn’t require any flour or breadcrumbs. Just be sure to check your cheese labels to confirm they are gluten-free.

Can I make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with a mix of whole milk and half-and-half for a lighter version. The texture might vary slightly, but it will still taste delicious!

Final Thoughts

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is truly one of those comforting recipes that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home! Happy cooking!