Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Cheesy, creamy au gratin potatoes are a delightful side dish that never fails to impress! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes offer a rich and indulgent flavor with the perfect blend of three types of cheese. This recipe is not just for special occasions; it’s great for everyday meals too. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying dinner with family, this dish will be the star of your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar, gruyere, and parmesan creates an incredibly cheesy experience.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without any hassle.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, it pairs well with many main courses.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves creamy potatoes, making this a favorite among kids and adults alike.
• Comfort Food: Warm and hearty, this recipe provides that cozy feeling we all crave.

Tools and Preparation

To make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (2-quart square or 8×12)
• Nonstick cooking spray or butter/oil for greasing
• Whisk
• Medium saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and browning.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing the sauce without lumps; it helps create a smooth consistency.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing potatoes easy and safe.

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 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. Prepare your baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray or greasing it with butter or oil.

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes and Onions

Place sliced potatoes in three tight slanted rows in your prepared baking dish. Ensure they are not overly packed but slightly slanted. Add onion slices in between the potato rows and on top.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Once melted:
1. Whisk in a little bit of flour.
2. Slowly add the almond milk in increments while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer until it has a creamy gravy-like consistency.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Combine Sauce with Potatoes

Pour the cheese sauce evenly over your arranged potatoes and onions until they’re covered. The sauce will become creamy as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake Covered

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

Step 7: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil. Sprinkle the top with gruyere cheese (or extra cheddar) and parmesan. Return to the oven for another 30-45 minutes or until golden brown on top. Check doneness by piercing through the middle; they should be easy to pierce with a fork.

Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy this comforting side dish!

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

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes make a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, serving these cheesy potatoes can impress your guests and family alike.

Pair with Roasted Meats

• Roasted Chicken: The creamy texture of the au gratin complements the juicy flavors of roasted chicken.
• Baked Ham: A classic pairing, the sweet and savory notes of ham work well with the richness of the cheese.

Serve with Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: The crispiness of romaine and tangy dressing balances the creaminess of the potatoes.
• Mixed Greens: A light vinaigrette on fresh greens adds brightness to your meal, enhancing the flavors.

Complement with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread offers a delicious contrast to the soft texture of au gratin potatoes.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate.

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

To ensure your Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and quality cheese enhance flavor and texture.
• Slice Evenly: Thin potato slices cook evenly, ensuring every bite is tender and creamy.
• Layer Properly: Arrange potato slices loosely to allow for even cooking and sauce distribution.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time; over-baking can make potatoes dry instead of creamy.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning during preparation to ensure a well-balanced flavor in your dish.

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

When planning a meal with Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, consider these excellent side dishes that complement their rich flavor.

1. Grilled Asparagus: Adds a fresh, slightly charred taste that pairs well with cheesy potatoes.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots provide a nice contrast to savory flavors.
3. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nutty crunch that balances creaminess.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is perfect for adding sweetness alongside cheesy goodness.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers refreshing crunch and acidity to cut through richness.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These add color and extra nutrients while being hearty enough to accompany your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Incorrect Potato Slicing: Slicing potatoes too thick can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for 1/8th inch rounds for consistent softness.
• Skipping the Sauce: Not making the sauce first can result in dry potatoes. Be sure to whisk the cheese and milk together until creamy before pouring it over the potatoes.
• Overcrowding the Dish: Stacking potatoes too tightly can prevent them from cooking evenly. Arrange them loosely in rows to allow for proper heat circulation.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can diminish flavor. Always sample the sauce before pouring it over the potatoes and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Not Covering While Baking: Failing to cover the dish with foil initially can lead to burnt tops while the insides remain uncooked. Cover it at first, then uncover for browning at the end.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover au gratin potatoes in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• To freeze, let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2–3 months.

Reheating Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet with a splash of milk, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What types of cheese work best?

Using sharp cheddar provides great flavor, but feel free to mix in gouda or mozzarella for different textures.

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

Yes! Prepare everything up to baking, cover tightly, and store in the fridge overnight. Bake when ready!

How do I know when my potatoes are done?

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

Can I use different types of milk?

Absolutely! Unsweetened almond milk is preferred, but regular cow’s milk or any plant-based milk works well too.

What should I serve with au gratin potatoes?

These cheesy potatoes pair perfectly with roasted meats or as part of a festive holiday spread.

Final Thoughts

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is an incredible side dish that combines comfort and flavor perfectly. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also versatile—feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or using different cheeses. Give it a try at your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!