Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Cheesy, creamy au gratin potatoes made with three types of cheese for an incredible side dish everyone will love! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are perfect for holidays or any time you need a delicious side. This recipe is easy to make and filled with cheesy goodness in every bite, making it a standout choice for family dinners or gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of three types of cheese creates a depth of flavor that enhances the natural taste of the potatoes.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is easy enough for even novice cooks to master.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair these au gratin potatoes with various main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled vegetables.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, they are sure to please a crowd.
• Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite herbs or spices to personalize the flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 2-quart square baking dish (or 8×12)
• Nonstick cooking spray or butter/oil for greasing
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking and makes serving easier.
• Whisk: A whisk helps achieve a smooth sauce by combining ingredients efficiently without lumps.
• Knife & Cutting Board: Sharp knives and a sturdy cutting board make slicing potatoes and onions quick and safe.

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 the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a 2-quart square baking dish (or an 8×12) with nonstick cooking spray or grease it with butter or oil.

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes and Onions

Place sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows in the baking dish. Ensure there’s enough space so that potato slices are slightly slanted. Add onion slices between the rows and on top of the potatoes.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
1. Add 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
2. Whisk in a little bit of flour at a time.
3. Slowly add milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer; it should have a creamy gravy-like consistency.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Lower the heat, then stir in shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Potatoes

Pour the sauce evenly over the arranged potatoes and onions. Don’t worry; it’ll become creamy while baking.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover the pan with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 7: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes:
1. Remove foil.
2. Sprinkle top with ½ cup shredded gruyere (or more cheddar) and ¼ cup parmesan.
3. Return to oven; bake uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes until golden brown on top and easily pierced with a fork.

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

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

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes make a delightful side dish for any meal. They pair well with various main courses and can elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Roasted Chicken

• A juicy roasted chicken complements the creamy potatoes perfectly, creating a delicious balance of flavors.

Serve alongside Grilled Steak

• The rich, cheesy goodness of the au gratin potatoes enhances the bold taste of grilled steak, making it a hearty meal.

Accompany with Steamed Vegetables

• Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add a fresh touch and color contrast to the creamy dish.

Add a Simple Salad

• A crisp garden salad provides a refreshing crunch that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the potatoes.

Enjoy with Baked Fish

• Baked fish adds a light protein option that contrasts nicely with the heavy creaminess of the au gratin.

Perfect for Holiday Feasts

• These potatoes are an ideal addition to holiday meals, bringing comfort and warmth to festive gatherings.

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

To achieve the best results with Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes provide a creamy texture and buttery flavor, perfect for this dish.
• Slice Evenly: Ensure potato slices are uniform in thickness for even cooking and texture throughout.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Take your time whisking in the milk and flour to avoid lumps for a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Season as You Go: Taste your sauce before pouring it over the potatoes to ensure it has just the right amount of flavor.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Shredded cheese from blocks melts better than pre-shredded cheese, giving you that perfect gooey texture.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest after baking helps set up and makes serving easier.

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

When planning your meal, consider these tasty side dishes that go well with Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy garlic bread adds flavor and is great for scooping up creamy sauces.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness balances out the richness of cheesy potatoes while adding vibrant color.
3. Crispy Fried Zucchini: Lightly battered zucchini provides a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with soft au gratin.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers healthy grains that complement the richness without overwhelming your palate.
5. Herb-Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots enhance flavors and add natural sweetness to your meal.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, cutting through the creaminess of the potatoes nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using uneven potato slices: For even cooking, make sure all potato slices are the same thickness. This ensures that they bake evenly and become tender at the same time.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your sauce! A lack of salt and pepper can lead to bland potatoes. Always taste your sauce before pouring it over the potatoes.
• Not covering while baking: If you skip covering the dish with foil initially, the top may brown too quickly while the potatoes remain undercooked. Covering helps retain moisture and allows for proper cooking.
• Overcrowding the dish: Placing too many potato slices too closely can prevent them from cooking through. Ensure there is enough space between slices for heat circulation.
• Ignoring resting time: Allowing your au gratin potatoes to rest after baking helps them set up properly. Cutting too soon can result in a soupy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• They can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes at a time until warmed, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of almond milk if needed to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor twist.

How do I ensure my au gratin potatoes are creamy?

Make sure to whisk your sauce well and cover the dish while baking initially. This helps create a rich and creamy texture throughout.

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

Absolutely! You can prepare everything ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

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

These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize this recipe by using different cheeses or adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a weeknight dinner, these cheesy potatoes will surely impress everyone at your table!