Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that brings everyone to the table, you’ve found it! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are a family favorite that never fails to impress. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes meld beautifully with a rich, cheesy sauce, creating a dish that is incredibly satisfying and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, this recipe has got you covered with its creamy goodness.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. You can whip it up with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. It’s also incredibly versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your taste. Trust me, once you try these potatoes, they’ll become a staple at your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will devour these cheesy potatoes!
• Easy preparation: With just a few steps, you’ll have delicious au gratin potatoes ready in no time.
• Great for meal prep: Make this dish ahead of time for stress-free dinners during the week.
• Comforting flavors: The combination of cheeses creates an irresistible flavor that warms the soul.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or just a cozy night in, these potatoes fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes. These are all easy to find and will create layers of flavor in your dish!

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 (you can use whole wheat or gluten-free 1:1 flour as well)
• 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 with more sharp cheddar)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan

To Garnish

• Fresh chopped parsley

Variations

This recipe is flexible and allows you to get creative! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add some veggies: Toss in spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or paprika for an extra kick.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try using gouda or mozzarella alongside cheddar for different flavors.
• Make it dairy-free: Use vegan butter and cheese alternatives for a plant-based version.

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. This ensures that your au gratin potatoes cook evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes and Onions

Spray a 2-quart square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or grease it with butter. Layer the sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows, leaving enough space so they are slightly slanted. Scatter onion slices between the rows and on top of the potatoes. This layering helps distribute flavor throughout.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Once melted, whisk in a little bit of flour before gradually adding the almond milk while whisking continuously. This step is crucial as it helps prevent lumps from forming. Bring this mixture to a simmer until it thickens to a creamy consistency similar to gravy.

Step 4: Add the Cheddar Cheese

Turn down the heat to low and stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Taste your sauce here; feel free to adjust seasoning if needed! This cheesy mixture will coat your potatoes beautifully.

Step 5: Pour Over Potatoes

Evenly pour your creamy sauce over the arranged potatoes and onions, making sure they are fully covered. No need to worry; everything will meld together wonderfully while baking!

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking pan with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. During this time, the layers of potato absorb all that cheesy goodness.

Step 7: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle gruyere cheese (or more cheddar) along with grated parmesan on top. Return it to the oven uncovered and bake for another 30-45 minutes until golden brown on top and easily pierced with a fork in the center.

Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy!

Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color! Serve up this delicious side dish at your next meal and watch everyone go back for seconds! Enjoy every creamy bite!

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

Making the perfect au gratin potatoes is all about attention to detail, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they have a creamy texture and hold up well during baking. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, which can become mushy.

• Slice evenly: Aim for uniform slices of 1/8 inch thickness. This ensures that all the potatoes cook evenly and achieve that delightful creamy consistency without any crunchy surprises.

• Season your sauce: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Taste your cheese sauce as you go and adjust the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to suit your palate. This extra step will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

• Cover during initial baking: Covering the dish with foil traps steam, helping to cook the potatoes thoroughly in the first phase. This prevents dried-out edges while ensuring a tender interior.

• Let it rest: After baking, allow your au gratin potatoes to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the layers settle and makes serving easier!

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

When it comes to presenting Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, you’ll want to make it inviting and deliciously appealing. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving style:

Garnishes

• Fresh chopped parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that beautifully contrasts with the richness of the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper not only enhances flavor but also adds visual appeal with its speckled appearance.
• Chives or scallions: Thinly sliced chives or scallions can bring a mild onion flavor that complements the dish nicely while adding a lovely crunch.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the richness of the au gratin potatoes.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies—like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers—adds color and nutrients while balancing out the meal’s flavors.

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any cheesy goodness left on your plate. It’s comforting and pairs perfectly with any cheesy side!

• Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: These bright green vegetables add a nutritional boost and their slight bitterness complements the creaminess of the potatoes beautifully.

Now you’re all set to create an unforgettable meal with Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes at its center! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. You can prepare it in advance and simply reheat when needed!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through.
• For a crispy top, uncover the dish for the last 10 minutes of reheating.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and gruyere give a great flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

How do I know when Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are done?

The potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork and the top is golden brown. This usually takes about 30-45 minutes after removing the foil.

Can I make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free all-purpose flour in place of regular flour, and your dish will be safe for those avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes as much as my family does! This recipe brings comfort and warmth, making any meal feel special. Whether it’s a holiday dinner or just a cozy weeknight, these potatoes are sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!