Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Cheesy, creamy au gratin potatoes made with three types of cheese are the star of any meal! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are not just a side dish; they are a celebration of flavor that elevates any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this dish promises to impress with its rich texture and delightful taste. The layers of tender potatoes soaked in a luscious cheese sauce make it an unforgettable addition to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and gruyere cheese creates a depth of flavor that will have everyone going back for seconds.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair these au gratin potatoes with chicken, beef, or turkey for a complete meal, making them suitable for any occasion.
• Comfort Food Classic: This dish embodies classic comfort food vibes that warm the heart and satisfy the soul.
• Great for Leftovers: Enjoy these potatoes the next day! They taste even better as the flavors meld together.

Tools and Preparation

To make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment will help you achieve that perfect creamy texture.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 2-quart square baking dish
• Nonstick cooking spray or butter/oil for greasing
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Knife for slicing potatoes and onions

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A good baking dish allows for even cooking and helps achieve that golden-brown topping.
• Whisk: Essential for smooth sauce preparation; it helps eliminate any lumps while mixing flour and milk.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing potatoes quick and easy, ensuring uniform cooking.

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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 substitute 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 sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows in the baking dish. Ensure there is enough space between slices so they can cook evenly. Add onion slices in between and on top of the potato layers.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in a little flour at a time while gradually adding almond milk. Continue whisking until you reach 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 before adjusting seasoning as necessary.

Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Potatoes

Evenly pour the sauce over the arranged potatoes and onions, ensuring they are well covered.

Step 6: Bake Covered

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

Step 7: Add Toppings

After 45 minutes, remove the foil. Sprinkle shredded gruyere cheese (or more cheddar) and grated parmesan on top. Return to oven and bake uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes until golden brown and fork-tender.

Enjoy your delicious Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes fresh from the oven, garnished with freshly chopped parsley!

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

Serving Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is just as important as preparing them. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the au gratin potatoes directly from the baking dish for a cozy, family-style meal. This encourages everyone to dig in and enjoy together.

With Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top before serving to add a pop of color and freshness that complements the creamy richness of the dish.

Pair with Protein

• Serve alongside roasted chicken or grilled turkey for a hearty meal. The flavors of tender poultry enhance the cheesy potatoes beautifully.

Accompany with Salad

• A light garden salad with a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the au gratin potatoes, balancing the plate perfectly.

Create a Buffet

• Include Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes at your next buffet-style gathering. They are sure to be a hit among guests alongside other favorites.

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

Perfecting Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes can take this already delightful dish to another level. Follow these tips for an even more mouth-watering result.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and cheese will elevate the flavor and texture of your dish, ensuring each bite is rich and satisfying.

• Slice Evenly: For even cooking, make sure all potato slices are consistent in thickness. Aim for 1/8-inch rounds for optimal creaminess.

• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow time for your sauce to simmer and thicken properly before pouring it over the potatoes. This ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before pouring it over the potatoes. Adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference for maximum flavor.

• Cover While Baking: Initially covering your baking dish prevents the top from browning too quickly while allowing the potatoes to cook through evenly.

• Let it Rest: Allow the au gratin potatoes to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps them set up nicely, making serving easier.

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

Pairing side dishes with your cheesy au gratin potatoes can enhance your meal’s overall flavor profile. Here are some fantastic options that complement this creamy side dish well.

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and grilled asparagus offers a fresh crunch that balances out the richness of the potatoes.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide earthy flavors that pair wonderfully with cheesy goodness.

3. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet honey-glazed carrots add a touch of sweetness, creating a delightful contrast on your plate.

4. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any extra cheese sauce from the au gratin.

5. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crisp romaine lettuce and crunchy croutons, providing a refreshing element alongside creamy potatoes.

6. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic offers nutrition and flavor without overwhelming the palate, making it an ideal match.

7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice add variety and make your meal more filling.

8. Crispy Chicken Tenders: Served hot from the oven, crispy chicken tenders offer protein that pairs delightfully with cheesy potatoes while keeping things casual and fun.

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 pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Layering – Not layering the potatoes and onions correctly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure you alternate layers for even flavor and texture.
• Not Preheating the Oven – Forgetting to preheat your oven can result in longer cooking times. Always preheat to 375°F before you start baking.
• Ignoring Sauce Consistency – If your sauce is too thick or too thin, it can affect the overall dish. Aim for a creamy gravy-like consistency before pouring over potatoes.
• Overcrowding the Dish – Packing the potatoes too tightly can prevent them from cooking evenly. Leave slight gaps between slices for proper heat circulation.
• Neglecting Seasoning – Skipping additional salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Taste your sauce before pouring it over the potatoes and adjust seasoning as needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, layer parchment paper between portions.

Reheating Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F and reheat covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of almond milk if necessary, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, here are some answers to common questions.

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

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.

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

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

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

Absolutely! Assemble everything in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What makes Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes so creamy?

The combination of almond milk and three types of cheese creates a rich and creamy texture that enhances each bite.

How do I know when my potatoes are done?

Potatoes are perfectly cooked when they can be easily pierced with a fork and have a golden-brown top.

Final Thoughts

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or different cheeses based on your preferences!