Creamy Cheesy Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe

Welcome to a culinary masterpiece that has stood the test of time – Potatoes Au Gratin. This timeless recipe holds a special place in my heart, reminiscent of cherished family gatherings where the creamy, cheesy layers never failed to steal the show. Picture thinly sliced russet potatoes bathed in a decadent garlic-infused cream sauce, mingling with the richness of sharp white cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. The result? A harmonious blend of textures and flavors that elevate these humble spuds to a whole new level.

The magic of Potatoes Au Gratin lies in the careful balance between a velvety soft interior and a crispy, golden-brown top layer that beckons with each forkful. Whether served alongside a succulent roasted chicken or as a star attraction at holiday feasts, this dish promises to impress even the most discerning palates. As you embark on this culinary journey, consider personalizing your creation with caramelized onions, Gruyère cheese, or a sprinkle of fragrant herbs to tailor it to your taste. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to create a dish that will have your guests coming back for seconds, just like my friend Beth did at her first taste of this delectable delight.

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and luxurious texture created by the starch content in Russet potatoes
• Perfect balance of creamy interior and crispy, golden exterior during final broil
• Experimentation with cheese selection – using sharp white cheddar and Parmesan for ideal creaminess and flavor
• Versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of proteins and can be customized with additional ingredients like caramelized onions or fresh herbs

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cheesy Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe Recipe

• Creamy, Cheesy Potato Heaven: Taste a spectacular side dish that balances creamy interiors with crispy, golden exteriors.
• Family-Approved Recipe: Recreate a beloved grandmother’s version that always leaves guests fighting for seconds at family gatherings.
• Indulgent Splurge: Even the carb-watchers can’t resist – it’s a dish worth the splurge that will have guests coming back for more.
• Versatile Pairing: Perfect for Sunday family dinners, holiday meals with ham or prime rib, or as a side to simple roasted chicken or beef tenderloin.
• Customizable Options: From caramelized onions to Gruyère, fresh herbs, or ham layers, there are endless ways to personalize this dish to your taste.
• Leftover Magic: Enjoy the flavors even more the next day as the potatoes absorb more cream; perfect for easy reheating and enjoying later.
• Foolproof Tips: Learn insider tips like salting potatoes adequately, using a wide dish for a crispy top, and standing potatoes vertically for added texture contrast.
• Heartwarming Tradition: Be part of a decade-long tradition of perfecting this dish, with inspiration from a French restaurant and a secret presentation twist that wows guests every time.

Ingredients for Creamy Cheesy Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe

• Slicing paper-thin is crucial – a mandolin isn’t just helpful, it’s almost necessary
• Russet potatoes create the perfect texture – their starch content helps thicken the cream sauce
• Fresh potatoes without green spots or sprouts will give the cleanest flavor
• Peeling is essential for the silky texture we’re aiming for
• Uniform sizing helps ensure even cooking throughout the dish

How to Make Creamy Cheesy Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe

Step 1: Get your oven ready

Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease baking dish with 2 tablespoons of softened butter, ensuring even coverage on bottom and sides.

Step 2: Prep those potatoes

Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes, aiming for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick. A mandolin or a sharp knife can be used for this task.

Step 3: Mix up the creamy goodness

Combine heavy cream, shredded white cheddar, 4 tablespoons Parmesan, and minced garlic in a large bowl. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Coat the potato slices

Add sliced potatoes to the cream mixture and gently toss until coated. Season generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Arrange in the baking dish

Place potato slices upright in a buttered dish, stacking them until all are used. Pour any leftover cream mixture over the top, then season with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Add the finishing touches

Dot small pieces of the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over the arranged potatoes to create a crust when melted.

Step 7: First bake (covered)

Wrap the dish tightly with aluminum foil to allow the potatoes to steam. Bake in a preheated oven for 35-40 minutes.

Step 8: Second bake (uncovered)

After baking initially, remove the dish from the oven and uncover. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven, bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 9: Get that golden-brown top

To achieve a crispy, golden crust, set the oven to high broil. Place the dish under the broiler for approximately 1 minute, monitoring closely to prevent burning. Aim for a golden-brown top with crispy edges.

Step 10: Let it rest, then enjoy

Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for approximately 10 minutes before serving. This will help the sauce thicken and enhance the dish’s flavor. Enjoy!

Storage Tips

To store the finished Potatoes Au Gratin, place any leftovers in the refrigerator in a tightly covered container. The dish can be stored this way for up to three days. As the potatoes sit, they will absorb more of the cream, enhancing the flavors even further for the next day. When ready to reheat, preheat the oven to 325°F, cover the dish with foil, and warm it through for about 20 minutes. Avoid using the microwave for reheating, as it can affect the texture of the potatoes and cause the sauce to separate.

If planning to freeze the Potatoes Au Gratin, it’s best to do so before the final baking step. Freeze the dish, tightly covered, then thaw it completely in the refrigerator before finishing the cooking process in the oven. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor of the dish. For an added precaution against curdling, ensure the cream is at room temperature before incorporating it into the dish. Proper salting of the potatoes in the cream mixture is also crucial for achieving the desired flavor profile.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lactose-free or vegan version of this Potatoes Au Gratin recipe, you can substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. These alternatives will still provide richness and creaminess to the dish. Additionally, you can use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast as a substitute for the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses to maintain that cheesy flavor profile.

If you are looking to make this dish gluten-free, you can swap the all-purpose flour in the cream mixture with gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent. This substitution will help achieve the desired creamy texture without compromising the dish’s overall flavor. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients, including the potatoes and seasonings, are naturally gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Potatoes Au Gratin, consider adding a layer of caramelized onions between the potato slices for a sweet depth of flavor. The onions will bring a subtle complexity that perfectly complements the creamy and cheesy elements of the dish. Additionally, swapping out the sharp white cheddar for Gruyère cheese can provide a more traditional French flavor profile, adding a nutty and slightly sweet note to this classic dish. These small tweaks will take your Potatoes Au Gratin to the next level and impress your guests with the depth of flavors.

For a creative twist on serving Potatoes Au Gratin, try incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cream mixture for an aromatic boost. The fragrant herbs will infuse the dish with a delightful aroma and a touch of earthy freshness that will elevate the overall flavor profile. Another option is to layer thin slices of ham between the potatoes to create a heartier version of the dish, turning it into a complete and satisfying one-dish meal. These serving suggestions will add new dimensions to your Potatoes Au Gratin, making them even more irresistible and memorable for your guests.

FAQs for Creamy Cheesy Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe

Question?

How can I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming greasy?

Question?

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Question?

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Question?

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers of Potatoes Au Gratin?

Conclusion

As you wrap up your culinary journey creating the exquisite Potatoes Au Gratin, I encourage you to embrace the versatility of this dish. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients and add your own personal touch to make it truly your own. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, these creamy, cheesy potatoes are sure to bring joy to your table.

Remember, cooking is all about exploration and making memories in the kitchen. So, don’t be afraid to experiment, enjoy the process, and savor every delicious bite of your Potatoes Au Gratin creation. Let this dish continue to be a staple in your recipe repertoire, bringing smiles and satisfaction to all who have the pleasure of tasting it. Happy cooking and bon appétit!

Creamy Cheesy Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe

Indulge in creamy, cheesy Potato Au Gratin, a luxurious side dish that balances crispy, golden edges with a velvety, garlic-infused cream sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time20 Minutes

Cook Time70 Minutes

Total Time90 Minutes

CuisineFrench

Skill LevelEasy

Servings8 Servings

Ingredients

• Slicing paper-thin is crucial – a mandolin isn’t just helpful, it’s almost necessary
• Russet potatoes create the perfect texture – their starch content helps thicken the cream sauce
• Fresh potatoes without green spots or sprouts will give the cleanest flavor
• Peeling is essential for the silky texture we’re aiming for
• Uniform sizing helps ensure even cooking throughout the dish

Instructions

1. Get your oven ready: Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease baking dish with 2 tablespoons of softened butter, ensuring even coverage on bottom and sides.
2. Prep those potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes, aiming for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick. A mandolin or a sharp knife can be used for this task.
3. Mix up the creamy goodness: Combine heavy cream, shredded white cheddar, 4 tablespoons Parmesan, and minced garlic in a large bowl. Stir well to combine.
4. Coat the potato slices: Add sliced potatoes to the cream mixture and gently toss until coated. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
5. Arrange in the baking dish: Place potato slices upright in a buttered dish, stacking them until all are used. Pour any leftover cream mixture over the top, then season with salt and pepper.
6. Add the finishing touches: Dot small pieces of the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over the arranged potatoes to create a crust when melted.
7. First bake (covered): Wrap the dish tightly with aluminum foil to allow the potatoes to steam. Bake in a preheated oven for 35-40 minutes.
8. Second bake (uncovered): After baking initially, remove the dish from the oven and uncover. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven, bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
9. Get that golden-brown top: To achieve a crispy, golden crust, set the oven to high broil. Place the dish under the broiler for approximately 1 minute, monitoring closely to prevent burning. Aim for a golden-brown top with crispy edges.
10. Let it rest, then enjoy: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for approximately 10 minutes before serving. This will help the sauce thicken and enhance the dish’s flavor. Enjoy!