Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that epitomizes comfort food, look no further than Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes. This classic dish combines the earthy flavor of Yukon gold potatoes with the rich, savory tastes of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or simply craving a hearty side dish, these au gratin potatoes are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of this delectable recipe.

Ingredients

To make this mouth-watering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 6-7 medium Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• ½ onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or any preferred flour)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (any milk works)
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¾ tsp salt (plus more to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup Gruyère cheese (or more cheddar)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own creamy and cheesy au gratin masterpiece:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes and Onions: Layer the thinly sliced potatoes in the baking dish, inserting onion slices between the layers to infuse flavor throughout.
3. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour to create a roux. Slowly add the almond milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
5. Assemble the Dish: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and onions. Cover the dish with foil to help the potatoes cook evenly.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. This initial baking time allows the potatoes to soften and absorb the cheesy flavor.
7. Add More Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle the Gruyère (or additional cheddar) and Parmesan cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 30-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
8. Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 320
• Protein: 12g
• Total Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g

How to Serve

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is a versatile dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also enhances the overall dining experience. Its rich, creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a favorite at the dinner table. Here are some detailed serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

With Roasted Meats

One of the classic pairings for Au Gratin Potatoes is with roasted meats. The dish’s creamy and cheesy profile complements the savory flavors of roasted chicken, beef, or pork magnificently.

• Roasted Chicken: The crisp skin and juicy meat of a roasted chicken, especially when seasoned with herbs like rosemary and thyme, work harmoniously with the richness of the potatoes. You can enhance this pairing by serving a homemade gravy drizzled over both the chicken and the potatoes.
• Beef Roast: A perfectly cooked beef roast, whether it’s a tenderloin or a pot roast, gains a delightful contrast from the creamy potatoes. Adding a side of horseradish sauce or a red wine reduction can further elevate the meal.
• Pork Loin: For pork, consider a herb-crusted loin or a maple-glazed roast. The sweetness of the glaze combined with the saltiness of the Au Gratin Potatoes creates a remarkable balance of flavors.

As a Holiday Side

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes shine brightly during holiday gatherings. Their luxurious texture and rich flavors provide a satisfying contrast to traditional holiday proteins.

• Thanksgiving Turkey: When served alongside roasted turkey, the creamy potatoes offer a luscious complement to the bird’s savory flavor. This dish can be an alternative to the classic mashed potatoes, providing a unique twist on your holiday table.
• Christmas Ham: The saltiness of a glazed ham pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy goodness of the Au Gratin Potatoes. Consider adding a touch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the potatoes to echo the flavors often found in holiday hams.
• Easter Brunch: Serve these potatoes as part of an Easter brunch spread. They can be paired with quiche, deviled eggs, and a fresh fruit salad for a well-rounded meal that delights guests of all ages.

With Grilled Vegetables

For those looking to create a lighter or vegetarian meal, pairing Au Gratin Potatoes with a medley of grilled vegetables offers a delightful balance.

• Vegetable Selection: Consider using seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, and eggplant. The char from grilling adds a smokiness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.
• Herb Garnish: Toss the grilled vegetables with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro before serving. This adds brightness to the dish and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Dressing Options: A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon over the vegetables can elevate the dish further, bringing out the sweetness of the grilled veggies and complementing the richness of the potatoes.

As a Standalone Dish

For a hearty vegetarian meal, Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes can stand proudly on their own.

• Simple Green Salad: Accompanying the potatoes with a crisp green salad is a great way to add freshness to the meal. Opt for a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
• Optional Add-Ins: For added nutrition, consider incorporating sautéed spinach or kale into the potatoes themselves, creating an even more wholesome dish. The greens will add color and a slight bitterness that perfectly offsets the creamy cheese.
• Creative Garnishes: Top the Au Gratin Potatoes with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or thyme to add a pop of color and fresh flavor. A pinch of smoked paprika can also enhance the dish with a subtle smokiness.

In summary, Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are not just a side dish; they can elevate any meal, whether served with meat, as part of a holiday feast, alongside grilled vegetables, or as a satisfying main course. With these serving suggestions, you can create a well-rounded and delicious dining experience that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

Additional Tips

To ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips, which will enhance both the flavor and presentation of your creation:

Choose the Right Potatoes

Selecting the right type of potato is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor in your dish. Yukon Gold potatoes are highly recommended for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, making them an ideal choice for creamy casseroles and gratins. Their natural sweetness complements many cheese sauces beautifully. If you prefer a different texture, russet potatoes are an excellent alternative; they are high in starch, which results in a fluffier texture when cooked. For a firmer bite, red potatoes are a great option as they hold their shape well during cooking. Regardless of your choice, be sure to select potatoes that are firm, without any sprouting or soft spots, to ensure the best quality in your final dish.

Slice Evenly

Uniform slicing is key to ensuring even cooking, especially in layered dishes. Consider using a mandoline slicer for this task, as it allows you to achieve consistently thin slices that promote uniform cooking and prevent some pieces from becoming overly soft while others remain undercooked. If you don’t have a mandoline, a sharp knife can work, but be sure to take your time to create slices that are roughly the same thickness—aim for about 1/8 inch thick. This attention to detail not only impacts the cooking time but also enhances the overall presentation of your dish.

Adjust Seasonings

Before pouring your cheese sauce over the potatoes, it’s essential to taste it first. This step allows you to adjust the salt and pepper levels to your liking, ensuring that the sauce complements your potatoes perfectly. Remember that cheese can vary significantly in saltiness, so tasting the sauce gives you a chance to balance out the flavors. Additionally, consider incorporating other seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or even a touch of nutmeg to add depth to your cheese sauce. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also elevate the flavor profile.

Experiment with Cheese

While classic cheese combinations like cheddar and Gruyère are beloved, don’t hesitate to get creative and experiment with different cheese varieties to find your perfect blend. For instance, adding blue cheese can introduce a sharp and tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes, providing a sophisticated twist. If you’re looking for extra creaminess, consider incorporating mozzarella, which melts beautifully and adds a delightful stretch to the dish. Other cheeses to consider include fontina for its nutty flavor or gouda for a hint of smokiness. Remember to mix and match; a combination of cheeses can create a more complex and satisfying flavor profile.

Incorporate Additional Ingredients

Don’t limit yourself to just potatoes and cheese; consider incorporating additional ingredients to enhance the dish further. Layering in sautéed onions or garlic can add aromatic depth, while cooked vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms can introduce a nutritious component and a pop of color. For a crunchier texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking, which will create a golden, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

Bake with Care

When it comes to baking, ensure you have the right temperature and timing. A moderate oven temperature (around 350°F to 375°F) typically works best for these types of dishes. Baking at too high a temperature can cause the top to burn while leaving the insides undercooked. Cover your dish with aluminum foil for the first part of the baking process to retain moisture and heat, then remove the foil for the last 15 to 20 minutes to allow the top to brown and develop a delicious crust.

Let It Rest

Once your dish is out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the layers to set and makes it easier to cut and serve without losing shape. It also helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dish.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can elevate your potato dish to new heights, ensuring that it’s not only delicious but also visually appealing and satisfying to your guests. Happy cooking!

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to 24 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

2. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the dish’s texture.

4. Can I freeze au gratin potatoes?

While it’s possible to freeze this dish, note that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its layer upon layer of tender potatoes and rich, cheesy sauce, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it as part of a festive spread or as a cozy family meal, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful harmony of flavors and textures that make this dish a true classic.

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