Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are a delightful side dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. With layers of tender potatoes, creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy topping, this recipe is perfect for holidays or everyday dinners. The combination of three types of cheese ensures a rich and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The blend of sharp cheddar and gruyere cheese creates an irresistible taste that complements any main course.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious side dish without the stress.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for family gatherings, holiday meals, or even casual dinners, these au gratin potatoes fit any occasion.
• Comfort Food Classic: Creamy and cheesy, this recipe evokes nostalgia while delivering modern flavors.
• Satisfying Texture: The combination of tender potatoes and a crispy cheese topping makes every bite enjoyable.

Tools and Preparation

To make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes successfully, having the right tools on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Oven
• Baking dish (2 quart square or 8×12)
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect golden brown top.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps eliminate lumps in your sauce for a smooth, creamy texture.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for evenly slicing potatoes and onions, ensuring consistent cooking.

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Ingredients

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 (whole wheat or gluten-free options work)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or regular/skim/whole 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

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Prepare your baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray or greasing it with butter or oil.

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes and Onions

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

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Gradually whisk in a little flour, then slowly add in almond milk while continuing to whisk vigorously until smooth. Bring this mixture to a simmer; it should resemble creamy gravy.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Reduce heat to low. Stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste your sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Potatoes

Evenly pour the cheese sauce over the arranged potatoes and onions. Don’t worry if it looks thin; it will thicken while baking.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes.

Step 7: Add Toppings

After removing the foil, sprinkle shredded gruyere cheese (or extra cheddar) along with grated parmesan over the top. Return to oven for an additional 30-45 minutes until golden brown. The potatoes are done when you can easily pierce them with a fork.

Once baked, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes!

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

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes make for a delightful side dish that pairs well with various main courses. These cheesy potatoes can elevate any meal, making them perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

With Roasted Chicken

• Roasted chicken complements the creamy texture of the au gratin potatoes perfectly. The savory flavors balance each other well.

With Grilled Vegetables

• A platter of grilled vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal while providing a fresh contrast to the richness of the potatoes.

As a Comfort Food Pairing

• Serve these au gratin potatoes alongside classic comfort foods like meatloaf or fried chicken for a nostalgic dinner experience.

With Salad

• A light green salad can cut through the creaminess of the dish. Consider adding a tangy vinaigrette to enhance the flavors.

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

To achieve the best results with Dad’s recipe, consider these helpful tips for creating the perfect dish.

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work best due to their creamy texture when baked. Avoid waxy potatoes as they may not yield the same results.

• Slice evenly: Cutting the potatoes into even 1/8-inch rounds ensures uniform cooking. This helps achieve that perfect creamy consistency throughout.

• Whisk thoroughly: When making the sauce, whisking vigorously while adding flour and milk prevents lumps and creates a smooth, creamy sauce.

• Don’t skip the cheese topping: Adding gruyere and parmesan on top enhances flavor and creates a deliciously golden crust.

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

If you’re looking for more sides to serve alongside Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, here are some great options that pair well together.

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinated in lemon juice and herbs, this dish adds brightness and protein to your meal.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli offers a healthy crunch that balances out the richness of the au gratin.
3. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The sweet-tart flavor of balsamic glaze enhances roasted Brussels sprouts, making them an excellent complement.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes provides a light contrast to creamy potatoes.
5. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed with honey add color and sweetness to your plate while being easy to prepare.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery breadsticks are perfect for mopping up any leftover cheese sauce from your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes can be simple, but some common mistakes can ruin this delicious dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Incorrect Potato Thickness: Slicing potatoes too thick can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for 1/8th inch rounds for the best texture.
• Skipping the Cheese Sauce: Not making the cheese sauce or pouring it over dry potatoes will yield bland results. Ensure you create a creamy sauce for maximum flavor.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can result in dull flavors. Always taste your sauce and add salt and pepper as needed.
• Overcrowding the Baking Dish: Packing potatoes too tightly will prevent them from cooking evenly. Leave space between slices for proper baking and browning.
• Removing Foil Too Early: Taking the foil off too soon can stop the potatoes from steaming properly. Bake covered until nearly done for a creamy texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze before baking, then bake directly from frozen.

Reheating Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered with foil until warm throughout, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Mom’s famous au gratin potatoes, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

What are Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are a rich side dish made with thinly sliced potatoes layered with a creamy cheese sauce and topped with even more cheese.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish up to baking and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Simply bake when ready to serve.

What type of cheese works best?

For the best flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese combined with gruyere or parmesan. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses!

How do I know when the potatoes are done?

Potatoes are done when they are easily pierced with a fork and have a golden brown top.

Can I customize Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

Absolutely! Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or try different herbs and spices for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is an exceptional side dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it perfect for holidays or casual dinners alike. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients for an even more personalized touch!