Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Cheesy, creamy au gratin potatoes made with three types of cheese make for an incredible side dish that everyone will love! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are perfect for holidays or any occasion when you need a delicious addition to your meal. With layers of tender potatoes and a rich, cheesy sauce, this dish is sure to be a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor – The combination of sharp cheddar, gruyere, and parmesan creates a deep, savory taste that elevates any meal.
• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and quick to prepare.
• Versatile Side Dish – Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, these au gratin potatoes complement various main dishes beautifully.
• Creamy Texture – The sauce made with almond milk ensures that every bite is luxuriously creamy without being overly heavy.
• Customizable Ingredients – Feel free to substitute cheeses or adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, you’ll need a few essential tools that make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish – Ensures even cooking and browning of the potatoes while holding all the ingredients together.
• Knife – A sharp knife makes slicing the potatoes and onions easy and precise for even cooking.
• Whisk – Helps combine ingredients smoothly when making the cheese sauce, preventing lumps for a creamy texture.

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

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes

Place sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows in the prepared baking dish. Leave enough space between each slice so they can cook evenly. Add onion slices in between the potato rows and on top wherever possible.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in a little bit of the flour. Gradually add in the almond milk while continuing to whisk vigorously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring this mixture to a simmer until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

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

Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Potatoes

Pour the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the arranged potatoes and onions in the baking dish. Don’t worry; it will become creamy during baking.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 7: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil. Sprinkle the top with shredded gruyere cheese (or additional cheddar) and grated parmesan. Return it to the oven for another 30-45 minutes until golden brown on top. The potatoes are done when you can easily pierce them with a fork. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving!

Enjoy this delightful side dish at your next gathering!

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

These creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs well with various meals. Serve them at gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with rich flavors.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken complements the creaminess of the potatoes, creating a balanced plate.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• A medley of roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Accompany with a Fresh Salad

• A crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the au gratin potatoes.

Enjoy alongside Beef Stew

• The hearty flavors of beef stew pair beautifully with the cheesy richness of the potatoes.

Complement with Turkey Breast

• Sliced turkey breast adds a savory element that works wonderfully with these cheesy potatoes.

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

Getting your au gratin potatoes just right can elevate this dish to new heights. Here are some tips for perfection.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh potatoes and cheese will enhance flavor and texture.
• Thinly slice potatoes: Ensure even cooking by slicing your potatoes into uniform 1/8-inch rounds.
• Whisk vigorously: When making the sauce, whisk thoroughly to prevent lumps for a smooth consistency.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your cheese sauce before pouring it over the potatoes; adjust salt and pepper as desired.
• Bake uncovered for crispiness: Removing the foil during baking helps achieve a golden brown top layer.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking helps set the sauce.

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

Dad’s creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes pair well with many side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil make for a vibrant side.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing brings freshness to your plate.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a nutritious and crunchy contrast.
5. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up creamy bites from your dish.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds seasonal appeal and pairs nicely with cheesy flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Not slicing potatoes evenly: If the potato slices are not uniform, some will cook faster than others. Use a mandoline slicer for consistent thickness.
• Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Always taste your sauce and adjust the salt and pepper before pouring it over the potatoes.
• Using too much flour: Adding too much flour can lead to a thick, gummy sauce. Start with less and add more if needed while whisking.
• Covering too tightly: Covering the dish too tightly with foil can trap steam, making the potatoes soggy. Leave a little space for steam to escape.
• Not letting it rest after baking: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking helps set the sauce and makes serving easier.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the au gratin potatoes cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm, about 2-3 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through; add a splash of milk if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different flavors.

How do I ensure my sauce is creamy?

Whisk vigorously while adding milk and cheese slowly to prevent lumps and create a creamy texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

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

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

These potatoes pair well with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or any meat dish you prefer.

How do I customize the recipe?

You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli into the layers or try different seasonings like smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. This recipe allows for plenty of customization, so feel free to get creative with your favorite cheeses or additional ingredients. Give it a try at your next gathering!