Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Cheesy and creamy, Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are a delightful side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With three types of rich cheese, this recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. It’s a dish everyone will love, making it a staple in family traditions. The combination of tender potatoes and a velvety cheese sauce creates an irresistible flavor that pairs well with any main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: The blend of three cheeses elevates the flavor profile, making every bite decadent.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep work, this dish is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Side Dish: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual weeknight meal, these au gratin potatoes fit right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Family and friends will rave about this creamy side; it’s sure to be the star of the dinner table.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones during meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, gather your tools before starting the recipe. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (2-quart square or 8×12)
• Nonstick cooking spray or butter for greasing
• Sharp knife for slicing potatoes and onions
• Whisk for mixing sauce
• Medium saucepan for cooking the cheese sauce

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly, preventing lumps in your creamy cheese sauce.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing potatoes easier and safer, allowing for precise cuts.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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 the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray your baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or grease it with butter or oil.

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes and Onions

Place sliced potatoes in three slanted rows within the baking dish. Ensure there is enough space between slices for even cooking. Add onion slices between rows and on top where possible.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Gradually whisk in some flour, then slowly add milk while whisking continuously until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer until it thickens like creamy gravy.

Step 4: Combine Cheese with Sauce

Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Potatoes

Evenly pour the cheesy sauce over the arranged potatoes and onions. The sauce will thicken further while baking.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 7: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil. Sprinkle the top with gruyere cheese (or additional cheddar) and parmesan. Return to the oven for another 30–45 minutes until golden brown on top and easily pierced with a fork.

Remove from oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, serve hot, and enjoy!

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

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes make a delicious side dish that pairs well with many main courses. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Roasted Meats

• Roast Chicken: The creamy potatoes balance the savory, crispy skin of roasted chicken.
• Prime Rib: A rich cut of prime rib complements the cheesy goodness of au gratin potatoes perfectly.

As a Vegetarian Option

• Grilled Vegetables: Pairing these potatoes with grilled seasonal veggies offers a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
• Stuffed Peppers: Serve alongside stuffed bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian feast.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Glazed Ham: The sweetness of glazed ham works wonderfully with the savory, cheesy flavors of the potatoes.
• Turkey: A classic holiday pairing, especially during Thanksgiving or Christmas.

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

Achieving the perfect creamy and cheesy texture in your au gratin potatoes is key. Here are some helpful tips to ensure success.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and cheese yield better flavor and texture than pre-packaged options.
• Slice Potatoes Evenly: Ensure all potato slices are about 1/8 inch thick for consistent cooking throughout.
• Preheat the Oven Properly: A fully preheated oven ensures even baking and helps develop that golden crust on top.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning in the cheese sauce to match your palate before pouring it over the potatoes.

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

When planning a meal featuring Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, consider these complementary side dishes to round out your table.

1. Garlic Bread: This crunchy delight adds an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with creamy potatoes.
2. Caesar Salad: The crispness of a Caesar salad contrasts nicely with the soft texture of au gratin potatoes.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the dish.
4. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness offsets the creaminess, making for an exciting flavor combination.
5. Apple Sauce: The sweetness of apple sauce can provide a refreshing contrast to rich potato dishes.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a fun and seasonal touch that kids will love alongside this creamy side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, avoiding common pitfalls can help ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the potato prep: Not slicing the potatoes evenly can result in uneven cooking. Make sure each slice is about 1/8th inch thick for consistency.
• Overcooking the sauce: Cooking the sauce too long can cause it to thicken excessively and become lumpy. Stir just until smooth and remove from heat.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning may lead to bland potatoes. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper gradually for the best flavor.
• Not covering while baking: Skipping the foil cover during the initial bake can dry out the potatoes. Keep them moist by covering your dish until it’s time to add the cheese topping.
• Rushing the cooling time: Cutting into the dish immediately after baking can make it fall apart. Letting it rest allows flavors to meld and makes serving easier.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes that may help you perfect this delicious side dish.

What is the best type of potato for au gratin?

Yukon gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture and flavor. They hold their shape well during cooking.

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 before baking when ready.

How do I know when my au gratin potatoes are done?

They are ready when they are fork-tender in the center and have a golden-brown crust on top.

Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist on Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes.

Final Thoughts

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are not only creamy and cheesy but also incredibly versatile. This dish can be customized with various cheeses or added ingredients like bacon or herbs. Perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners, give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!