Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Cheesy, creamy au gratin potatoes made with three types of cheese for an incredible side dish everyone will love! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are perfect for holidays or any gathering. This recipe combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps to create a rich, comforting dish that will impress your family and friends. The layers of tender potatoes, savory onions, and luscious cheese sauce make this a standout side on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar, gruyere, and parmesan creates a cheesy delight that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish without any stress.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or even weeknight meals—this recipe fits any occasion.
• Comfort Food Classic: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a favorite for anyone who loves hearty sides.
• Customizable Ingredients: Swap in your favorite cheeses or add veggies for a unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparing Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes effortless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 2-quart square baking dish
• Nonstick cooking spray or butter
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and allows for easy serving.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps break up lumps in the sauce, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the potatoes quick and safe.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes and Onions

• 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 also work)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (regular, skim or whole milk will also work)
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (2 heaping cups)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper

For Topping

• ½ cup gruyere cheese, shredded (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 the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a 2-quart square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or grease it with butter or oil.

Step 2: Arrange Potatoes and Onions

Place sliced potatoes in three slanted rows in the baking dish. Add onion slices between the rows and on top of the potatoes for added flavor.

Step 3: Make Your Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Whisk in a little bit of flour.
3. Gradually add milk while alternating with flour until fully combined.
4. Bring this mixture to a simmer until it thickens to a gravy-like consistency.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Turn down the heat to low. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Potatoes

Evenly pour the sauce over the arranged potatoes and onions. Don’t worry; it will become creamy while baking!

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover the pan with foil. Bake for 45 minutes at 375 degrees F.

Step 7: Add Toppings

After 45 minutes:
1. Remove foil.
2. Sprinkle with gruyere cheese (or more cheddar) and parmesan on top.
3. Return to bake uncovered for another 30-45 minutes until golden brown.

Once done, remove from oven and 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 a delicious and comforting side dish for any meal. Whether serving at a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, there are many ways to enhance your dining experience.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair these au gratin potatoes with roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini for a colorful and healthy plate.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• Serve alongside your main holiday dishes such as glazed ham or roast turkey. The creamy texture complements the savory flavors wonderfully.

With Fresh Salad

• A light salad, like a Caesar or mixed greens, balances the richness of the potatoes. The freshness adds a nice contrast.

Accompanied by Grilled Meats

• Pairing with grilled chicken or steak elevates your meal. The smoky flavor from the grill pairs beautifully with the cheesy goodness.

Alongside Baked Fish

• A simple baked salmon or cod can be an excellent match. The flaky fish and creamy potatoes create a delightful combination.

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

To ensure your Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes turn out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes: Their buttery flavor and creamy texture work best for this dish, yielding tender slices that hold up during baking.

• Don’t skip the cheese: Using a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar and gruyere enhances the flavor profile. More cheese means more creaminess!

• Layer evenly: Arrange potato and onion slices in consistent layers to ensure even cooking and that every bite is flavorful.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce before pouring it over the potatoes. Feel free to adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for the best flavor.

• Cover while baking: Covering with foil helps steam the potatoes initially, so they cook through before browning on top.

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

Pairing side dishes with Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic butter provide a crisp contrast to the creamy potatoes.

2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots add a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the gratin.

3. Creamed Spinach: This classic dish offers rich creaminess that pairs well with cheesy au gratin potatoes, making for an indulgent meal.

4. Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins add a hint of sweetness and are perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce.

5. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the heaviness of the potatoes.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and meat create a hearty side that works well with rich au gratin potatoes.

7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of cheesy potatoes.

8. Caesar Salad: This classic salad brings tangy dressing and crunchy croutons that pair nicely with creamy dishes like au gratin potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes can be simple, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Potato Preparation: Not slicing potatoes evenly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all slices are about 1/8 inch thick for consistent texture.
• Ignoring Cheese Quality: Using low-quality cheese can affect flavor. Opt for sharp cheddar and fresh gruyere for the best taste.
• Rushing the Sauce: Cooking the sauce too quickly may cause lumps. Take your time to whisk thoroughly and achieve a smooth consistency.
• Overcrowding the Dish: Packing potatoes too tightly will prevent them from cooking evenly. Arrange them with slight gaps for even baking.
• Not Tasting the Sauce: Failing to season your sauce before pouring it over potatoes can lead to blandness. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• These au gratin potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan on low, stirring gently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes:

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for unique flavors.

What if I don’t have almond milk?

You can substitute regular milk, skim milk, or any non-dairy milk you prefer.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour when making your sauce.

Can I add vegetables to the recipe?

Absolutely! Sliced mushrooms or spinach can complement the dish nicely.

How do I know when the potatoes are done?

The potatoes are cooked when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Final Thoughts

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are a fantastic side dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a simple weeknight gathering, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize. Consider adding your favorite herbs or vegetables for an extra twist!