Potatoes Au Gratin

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Creamy and cheesy potatoes au gratin baked to perfection

why make this recipe

Potatoes Au Gratin is a classic dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. The creamy texture combined with the cheesy flavor makes it a favorite for family dinners, holidays, or even a cozy night in. This dish is easy to prepare, and it’s perfect as a side or a main course. Impress your guests or treat your family to this hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

how to make Potatoes Au Gratin

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons softened unsalted butter (divided)
  • 3 pounds (4 or 5 medium) russet potatoes (peeled)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
  • 6 tablespoons grated Parmesan (divided)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375˚F. Grease a baking dish with 2 tablespoons of butter.
  2. Thinly slice the potatoes, using a mandolin if you have one for even slices.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, 4 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic.
  4. Add the sliced potatoes to this mixture, tossing them together until well coated. Season generously with salt and pepper, and toss again.
  5. Take a stack of the potatoes and line the baking dish, keeping the potatoes upright. Repeat this until all the potato slices are used.
  6. Pour any leftover cream mixture evenly over the potatoes, and lightly season the top with salt and pepper.
  7. Dot the top with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
  8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 35 to 40 minutes.
  9. After baking, remove the dish from the oven, uncover it, and sprinkle the top with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  10. Transfer the dish to a broiler and broil on high for 1 minute to brown the top.
  11. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

how to serve Potatoes Au Gratin

Potatoes Au Gratin is best served warm. You can pair it with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This dish is also delightful on its own and is excellent for leftovers, making it versatile for any occasion.

how to store Potatoes Au Gratin

To store leftover Potatoes Au Gratin, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350˚F until warmed through.

tips to make Potatoes Au Gratin

  • For creaminess, ensure the potatoes are sliced evenly to cook uniformly.
  • Feel free to add different types of cheese, such as Gouda or Gruyère, for additional flavors.
  • You can also mix in some cooked bacon or ham for added richness and flavor.
  • If you like a bit of spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or freshly chopped herbs.

variation

You can make a healthier version by substituting half of the cream with low-fat milk or using a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, you can incorporate vegetables like spinach or kale for a flavorful twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but russet potatoes yield the best texture for this dish.

2. Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
While peeling gives a smoother texture, you can leave the skin on for added flavor and nutrition.

3. Can I prepare Potatoes Au Gratin ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator. Just add extra baking time if it’s cold from the fridge when you bake it.

Potatoes Au Gratin

A creamy and cheesy potato dish, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 330
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, divided 2 tablespoons for greasing the baking dish and 2 tablespoons for topping
  • 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled Use 4 or 5 medium potatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream Provides a creamy texture
  • 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese Adds flavor and creaminess
  • 6 tablespoons grated Parmesan, divided 4 tablespoons for the mixture and 2 tablespoons for topping
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the overall flavor
  • to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375˚F and grease a baking dish with 2 tablespoons of butter.
  2. Thinly slice the potatoes, using a mandolin if available for even slices.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, 4 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic.
  4. Add the sliced potatoes to this mixture, tossing them together until well coated. Season generously with salt and pepper, and toss again.
Assembly
  1. Take a stack of the potatoes and line the baking dish, keeping the potatoes upright. Repeat until all the potato slices are used.
  2. Pour any leftover cream mixture evenly over the potatoes, and lightly season the top with salt and pepper.
  3. Dot the top with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
Baking
  1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 35 to 40 minutes.
  2. After baking, remove the dish from the oven, uncover it, and sprinkle the top with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  3. Transfer the dish to a broiler and broil on high for 1 minute to brown the top.
  4. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For creaminess, ensure the potatoes are sliced evenly to cook uniformly. Feel free to add different types of cheese, such as Gouda or Gruyère, for additional flavors. You can also mix in some cooked bacon or ham for added richness and flavor. If you like a bit of spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or freshly chopped herbs. Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat at 350˚F.