Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines creamy, cheesy comfort with tender, flavorful potatoes, this Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. Rich and satisfying, it features thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes layered with sweet onions and smothered in a luscious cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, nutty gruyere, and a hint of Parmesan for that perfect golden crust. Whether you want a special side for Sunday dinner or a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for holiday feasts, this recipe brings warmth and joy to every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe calls for simple, readily available ingredients that come together beautifully to create a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and color. Every component plays a vital role, from the creamy milk that binds the sauce to the trio of cheeses that add depth and gooey goodness.

• 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes: Their buttery texture and thin slices ensure creamy layers that soak up the sauce perfectly.
• ½ yellow onion: Thinly sliced for a subtle sweetness that complements the cheesy richness.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter: Used for cooking the roux and greasing the pan, adding lusciousness without overpowering flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic: Minced finely to infuse the sauce with a fragrant warmth.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour: The key thickener that creates the smooth, velvety cheese sauce.
• 1½ cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and keeps everything silky and luscious.
• 1 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the richness.
• ½ tsp ground black pepper: Provides a gentle spice that wakes up the dish.
• 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and tangy, it gives the sauce boldness and depth.
• 1½ cups freshly shredded gruyere cheese (divided): Nutty and smooth, half mingles into the sauce while the rest delivers a glorious melty topping.
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, savory finish that crisps up beautifully in the oven.

How to Make Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter. This sets the stage for your potatoes not to stick and helps create that irresistible golden crust on the edges.

Step 2: Layer the Potatoes and Onions

Arrange the thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes and yellow onions in alternating layers inside the prepared pan. The layered combination ensures every forkful has a perfect balance of creamy potato and sweet onion.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Roux

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant—it only takes a minute but it’s key to infusing the sauce with that cozy, aromatic flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and garlic, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and the flour turns a light golden color. This step builds the base for your creamy sauce, so patience here means a silky result.

Step 5: Add Milk and Simmer

Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, watching it thicken. This warm, creamy sauce will seep into the potatoes during baking, making every bite rich and luscious.

Step 6: Melt in the Cheese and Season

Remove the sauce from heat, then stir in the salt, black pepper, cheddar cheese, and three-quarters of the gruyere until everything melts together into a smooth, cheesy dream. Pour this irresistible sauce evenly over the potato and onion layers.

Step 7: Bake Covered Until Tender

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a knife slides easily into the center and the potatoes are tender but still hold their shape.

Step 8: Add Cheese Topping and Continue Baking

Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining gruyere and the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just beginning to turn golden.

Step 9: Optional Broil for Extra Brownness

If you’re craving a crust with extra color and crunch, pop the dish under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning—it only takes a moment to achieve that perfect golden finish.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Finish your Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, to add a burst of color and brightness before serving. This classic dish is now ready to make any mealtime feel special.

How to Serve Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like finely chopped parsley, chives, or thyme not only add a pop of fresh color but also a hint of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan can also enhance the cheesy experience and add texture.

Side Dishes

This Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe excels alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or holiday ham. Pairing it with crisp green vegetables such as steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a fresh salad brings balance to the meal, offering contrasting textures and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special occasion, try serving the gratin in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. This not only looks elegant but also lets everyone enjoy their own perfectly bubbly and golden portion, making the experience feel personalized and indulgent.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe, refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a delicious next-day treat that reheats beautifully.

Freezing

You can freeze the gratin before baking or after it’s been baked and cooled. To freeze, cover the dish tightly with foil and place it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to preserve the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. This method helps maintain the creamy texture and melt that make the Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe such a delight. Avoid microwaving when possible, as the texture can become watery.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?

While Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, you can use Russets if needed. Just keep in mind, Russets are starchier and may create a slightly different texture, but the dish will still be delicious.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free milk and cheeses made from nuts or soy. The texture will differ slightly but the creamy, comforting vibe of the Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe will still shine through.

How thin should the potato slices be?

The potatoes should be sliced about 1/8 inch thick. Thin slices allow for even cooking and ensure the sauce penetrates every layer, producing that signature creaminess throughout the gratin.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish and cover it tightly in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before baking, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time. This makes it perfect for busy days or entertaining guests.

What cheese blends work best for Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe?

A classic combination of sharp cheddar, nutty gruyere, and salty Parmesan creates the perfect balance of flavor. You can experiment with other favorites like fontina or mozzarella, but the trio in this recipe delivers the iconic taste and meltability.

Final Thoughts

This Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe is pure comfort food magic in a dish that’s easy to master and irresistibly delicious. From the creamy layers of tender potatoes to the rich, bubbling cheese topping, it’s a timeless favorite that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a regular part of your recipe collection.

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