Potatoes Au Gratin

This Potatoes Au Gratin recipe is a rich and creamy side dish that combines thinly sliced Russet potatoes with a decadent cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheese. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, this dish offers a deliciously cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s perfect for holiday meals, family dinners, or special occasions. The addition of garlic powder, onion, and fresh parsley elevates the flavor profile, making it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it with roast chicken, steak, or any hearty main dish, Potatoes Au Gratin is sure to be a hit. Try this easy-to-make, comfort food classic for your next meal and indulge in the ultimate cheesy potato goodness.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/8″ thick slices
• 1 white onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
• ½ tsp pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a 2.5 or 3-quart casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Layer the Potatoes and Onions: Arrange the sliced potatoes and onions in the casserole dish in slanted rows. Place the potatoes in layers, allowing space between the slices for the sauce to seep in.
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the flour and stir until well combined. Gradually whisk in the milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking and cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
4. Add the Cheeses: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Assemble the Dish: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and onions, making sure all the potatoes are covered.
6. Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 60 minutes. After 60 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are fork-tender.
7. Rest and Serve: Allow the dish to rest for 20-30 minutes before serving. Top with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Potatoes Au Gratin is the ultimate comfort food with its creamy, cheesy goodness and a rich, flavorful sauce that envelops tender potatoes. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special holiday meals. The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheese adds depth and complexity, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite. Plus, the simple preparation and oven-baking method make it an easy and delicious side dish.

Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Fontina, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan can be used in place of Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Creamier: For an extra indulgent version, you can add a little heavy cream or half-and-half in place of some of the milk.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, ensure that the cheeses used are vegetarian-friendly (some cheeses use animal rennet).
• Add Bacon: For extra flavor, consider adding crispy bacon bits or ham in between the potato layers.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture, though Russet potatoes provide a fluffier consistency.

Can I prepare Potatoes Au Gratin ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, just add 10-15 extra minutes to the cook time.

What’s the difference between Potatoes Au Gratin and Scalloped Potatoes?
The main difference is that Potatoes Au Gratin uses cheese in the sauce, while Scalloped Potatoes are made with a simple cream sauce without cheese. Both are delicious, but the cheesy richness of Au Gratin makes it extra indulgent.

Serving Suggestions

• With Roasted Meats: Potatoes Au Gratin pairs perfectly with roast chicken, prime rib, or grilled steak for a satisfying meal.
• For Holidays: This dish is a fantastic choice for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinners, where it will complement turkey, ham, or other festive dishes.
• Add a Side Salad: Balance the richness of the potatoes with a fresh, crisp salad, such as a mixed green salad or a Caesar salad, for a complete meal.

Potatoes Au Gratin is a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that will elevate any dinner and satisfy your comfort food cravings!