Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that brings a smile to everyone’s face, you’ve come to the right place! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is a recipe that holds a special spot in my heart. My dad made this dish during family gatherings and holidays, filling our home with an irresistible cheesy aroma. The layers of tender potatoes and gooey cheese create a comforting embrace in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive feast, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. You can easily prepare it ahead of time, and the result is always creamy, cheesy perfection. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a place on your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This recipe comes together quickly without any complicated steps.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will devour these cheesy potatoes!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep it in advance, then pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Versatile flavors: With three types of cheese, this dish packs a punch of deliciousness that pairs well with any main course.
• Comfort food at its finest: These au gratin potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy for anyone to recreate Dad’s creamy classic. Grab these items, and let’s get cooking!

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)
• 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

One of the best parts about Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for unique flavors.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a little kick.
• Herb infusion: Mix in some fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This step is essential so that everything bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Layer the Potatoes and Onions

Next, grab your baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray or grease it with butter. Arrange your sliced potatoes in three slanted rows—this helps them cook evenly! Tuck those onion slices between the potato layers wherever you can fit them; they add such great flavor!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Now let’s make that creamy sauce! In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter. Once melted, whisk in a bit of flour before gradually adding the almond milk. Keep whisking until there are no lumps—this will create a smooth base similar to gravy. When your mixture simmers, stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste it—if it needs more seasoning, now’s the time!

Step 4: Pour It All Together

Pour your luscious sauce over those potatoes and onions until they’re well-covered. Don’t worry if it looks like too much; trust me—it will become wonderfully creamy while baking.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and pop it in the oven for 45 minutes. This helps steam the potatoes until they’re tender.

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

After 45 minutes have passed, carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle more shredded gruyere (or cheddar) and parmesan on top. Return to the oven for another 30-45 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Once done, take them out of the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for that extra touch of freshness! Serve warm alongside your favorite main dishes—and watch everyone fall in love with Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes! Enjoy!

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

Making the perfect au gratin potatoes is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy and delicious every time!

• Use a mandoline for even slicing: Consistent potato thickness ensures even cooking, so using a mandoline will help you achieve those perfectly thin slices without any guesswork.

• Grate your cheese fresh: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese, giving you that smooth and gooey texture you crave in au gratin potatoes.

• Let the sauce cool slightly before pouring: Allowing the sauce to cool a bit before pouring it over the potatoes helps it cling better, creating a luscious coating rather than just running off.

• Don’t skip the foil cover initially: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking traps steam, which helps cook the potatoes through before browning them nicely at the end.

• Test doneness with a fork: Always check if your potatoes are done by piercing them with a fork in the center. If it goes in easily, they’re ready to enjoy!

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

Presenting your cheesy au gratin potatoes can make all the difference in how appetizing they look! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful side dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh chopped chives: Adding a sprinkle of fresh chives not only enhances color but also adds a mild onion flavor that complements the creaminess of the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can give your au gratin an exciting kick.
• Extra shredded cheese: A light sprinkle of extra cheese on top right before serving can make your dish look even more indulgent and inviting.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The slight bitterness and crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts provide a lovely contrast to the creamy potatoes and add nutritional value.
• Garlic green beans: Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic offer a bright and fresh addition that balances out the richness of the au gratin.
• Simple garden salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette dressing helps cleanse the palate between bites of cheesy goodness.
• Grilled chicken or fish: Pairing this dish with grilled chicken or fish adds protein and rounds out your meal beautifully while keeping it light.

Now you’re all set to serve up Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes like a pro! Enjoy sharing this comforting side dish with family and friends at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings. You can prepare them ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the au gratin potatoes before baking.
• Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking according to the recipe instructions.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of heating.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions that might help you while making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes.

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

Absolutely! While Yukon gold potatoes create a beautiful creamy texture, you can also use russet or red potatoes. Just make sure they’re sliced thinly so they cook evenly.

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

Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend. This will maintain the creaminess of the sauce without compromising flavor!

What cheeses work best in Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

While this recipe calls for sharp cheddar and gruyere, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda. Just remember to choose cheeses that melt well!

Can I prepare Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes in advance?

Yes! You can assemble everything ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to your baking time if baking from cold.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes as much as I do! This recipe is not just about delicious food; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table with loved ones. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, these cheesy potatoes are sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out!