Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Cheesy, creamy au gratin potatoes made from my dad’s famous recipe are the perfect side dish for any occasion. Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes feature three types of cheese, creating a rich and flavorful experience that everyone will love. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Its delightful creaminess and cheesy goodness make it a standout choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cheddar and gruyere cheese creates a deliciously creamy and cheesy experience that will satisfy any palate.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair these au gratin potatoes with your favorite meats or serve them as a vegetarian option alongside salads.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is always a hit at gatherings, making it an ideal addition to holiday meals or potlucks.
• Comfort Food Classic: Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that evoke nostalgia and remind you of home-cooked meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment on hand can make preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of the potatoes.
• Sharp knife: Using a sharp knife allows for precise slicing of potatoes, ensuring even cooking.
• Saucepan: A sturdy saucepan is essential for making the creamy sauce without burning it.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly, preventing lumps in your cheese sauce.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes:

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, all purpose, or gluten-free 1:1 flour will work)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (regular, skim or whole milk also works)
• 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. Spray a 2-quart square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or grease 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’s enough space between slices for them to slightly lean. Distribute onion slices among and on top of the potatoes wherever possible.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Add 2 tablespoons of butter to a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted:
1. Whisk in a small amount of flour.
2. Gradually add almond milk while alternating with flour, whisking vigorously to eliminate lumps.
3. Bring this mixture to a simmer until it reaches a creamy gravy-like consistency.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste your sauce and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Step 5: Combine Potatoes with Sauce

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

Step 6: Bake Covered

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

Step 7: Finish Baking Uncovered

After removing the foil:
1. Sprinkle top with gruyere cheese (or additional cheddar) and parmesan.
2. Return to oven for another 30-45 minutes until golden brown on top and tender inside (potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork).
3. Once done, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!

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

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs well with various main courses. They add a rich, cheesy flavor and creamy texture, making them a favorite at family gatherings and holiday meals.

With Roasted Chicken

• Roasted chicken complements the creamy texture of the potatoes, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Alongside Grilled Vegetables

• Serve these au gratin potatoes with a mix of seasonal grilled vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.

Paired with Beef Stew

• The hearty flavors of beef stew combined with the cheesy potatoes create a satisfying comfort food combo.

As a Side for Lamb Chops

• The richness of lamb chops pairs beautifully with the creamy nature of the au gratin potatoes.

Complementing Turkey Breast

• These potatoes are perfect next to sliced turkey breast, offering a delightful contrast to lean meat.

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

To ensure your au gratin potatoes turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind. Achieving that creamy consistency and golden topping is key!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh potatoes and quality cheese will elevate the flavor of your dish significantly.
• Slice potatoes evenly: Thin, consistent slices allow the potatoes to cook evenly and absorb the sauce better.
• Whisk vigorously: When making your sauce, whisk continuously to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth texture.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process to suit your palate. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference.
• Cover when baking: Covering the dish with foil during initial baking helps steam the potatoes for tenderness before browning.
• Let it rest before serving: Allow your dish to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set up and makes serving easier.

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

When planning your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that complement Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes. Each option brings its own unique flavors to your table.

1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic bring brightness and crunch alongside creamy potatoes.
2. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet honey-glazed carrots add color and sweetness, balancing the savory richness of the au gratin.
3. Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing that contrasts nicely with cheesy potatoes.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts enhance your meal while providing earthy flavors.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce on your plate.
6. Creamed Spinach: This rich side complements the au gratin’s creaminess while adding nutritious greens to your meal.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and spices make an eye-catching addition to your dinner spread.
8. Baked Zucchini Chips: Crunchy baked zucchini chips provide a lighter option that contrasts with the hearty potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes can be straightforward, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong potato type: Choosing the wrong type of potato can affect the texture. Stick to Yukon Gold for the best creamy results.
• Not slicing potatoes evenly: Uneven slices will cook unevenly. Aim for 1/8 inch rounds to ensure consistent cooking and texture.
• Skipping the cheese: Missing out on adding different cheeses can lead to bland flavors. Use a mix of sharp cheddar and gruyere for depth.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Baking times are crucial. Check for doneness by piercing with a fork; they should be tender throughout.
• Forgetting to season: Seasoning is key for flavor. Don’t skip salt and pepper, and taste your sauce before pouring it over the potatoes.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just increase baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

What can I substitute for almond milk in this recipe?

You can use regular milk, skim milk, or any plant-based milk you prefer as an alternative.

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

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Different cheeses can also change up the taste!

Are these au gratin potatoes gluten-free?

Yes! If you use gluten-free flour as specified, this dish is suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Gouda for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes make a delightful side dish perfect for any occasion. Their creamy texture combined with cheesy goodness is hard to resist! Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or serve alongside your preferred main dishes. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!