Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes:
Potatoes au gratin is the epitome of comfort food—rich, creamy, cheesy, and indulgent. This classic dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even as a side for a special weekend meal. Made with layers of thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a luscious cheese sauce, au gratin potatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe, which is easy to follow and will make you feel like a professional chef in your own kitchen.
Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes | 1 hour 35 minutes | 4 servings (1X) |
Ingredients
| Quantity | 1x (Original, 4 servings) | 2x (8 servings) | 4x (16 servings) |
| Russet potatoes (medium) | 4 | 8 | 16 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | 2 cups | 4 cups |
| Whole milk | 1/2 cup | 1 cup | 2 cups |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 4 cloves | 8 cloves |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | 4 tbsp | 8 tbsp |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp | 4 tbsp | 8 tbsp |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 1/2 cups | 3 cups | 6 cups |
| Gruyère cheese (shredded) | 1/2 cup | 1 cup | 2 cups |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 2 tsp | 4 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | 1 tsp | 2 tsp |
| Nutmeg (optional) | 1/4 tsp | 1/2 tsp | 1 tsp |
| Parmesan cheese (for topping) | 1/4 cup | 1/2 cup | 1 cup |
| Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish) | 1 tsp | 2 tsp | 4 tsp |
Directions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Slice the Potatoes
Peel the Russet potatoes and slice them thinly (about 1/8-inch thick). A mandoline slicer is highly recommended for even slices.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, ensuring no lumps form.
Stir in cheddar and Gruyère cheese, allowing them to melt smoothly.
Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
Remove from heat when the sauce is thick and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Arrange half of the potato slices in the prepared baking dish.
Pour half of the cheese sauce over the first layer of potatoes.
Repeat with the remaining potato slices and cheese sauce.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Check doneness by inserting a knife—potatoes should be tender.
Step 6: Rest & Serve
Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme, if desired.
Chef’s Notes
Choice of Potatoes: Russet potatoes are preferred due to their high starch content, which helps achieve a creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes work well too.
Cheese Variations: Try swapping Gruyère for Swiss cheese, or use a mix of mozzarella and Gouda for a different flavor profile.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Crispier Topping: For extra crispiness, broil the dish for the last 3-5 minutes of baking.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve with roast chicken, steak, or a fresh green salad.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
| Sodium | 450mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 3g |
With its creamy layers and cheesy goodness, this Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Whether it’s for a holiday meal or a cozy family dinner, this dish will bring warmth and satisfaction to any table. Enjoy!
