If you’re craving a classic comfort dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe. This luscious casserole blends tender Yukon gold potatoes with a dreamy, cheesy sauce that’s both creamy and perfectly seasoned, making it an irresistible side or even a main event for family dinners. Every layer is infused with rich cheddar and a hint of garlic, making this recipe not just a meal but an experience that brings everyone to the table for seconds and smiles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe lies in its simple, well-chosen ingredients. Each one builds texture, flavor, and that lovely golden color that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 6-7 medium Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced: These hold their shape beautifully and offer a creamy interior when baked.
- ½ white or yellow onion, sliced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to balance the richness.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter: Essential for making the silky roux that forms the cheese sauce base.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to the perfect creamy consistency.
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk): Makes the sauce smooth and rich without overpowering the potatoes.
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: The bold, tangy heart of the dish’s cheesy flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory note that brightens the cheese sauce.
- ¾ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without making it too salty.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Gives a gentle kick and balances the creaminess.
- ½ cup gruyere cheese (optional): Melts beautifully and offers a nutty complexity to the top layer.
- ¼ cup grated parmesan: Provides a sharp, savory crust as it bakes golden brown.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a bright, fresh finish to the rich dish.
How to Make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
The first step sets the stage: preheat your oven to 375°F and generously grease a 2-quart square baking dish. This will ensure the potatoes cook evenly and your au gratin won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze and presentation flawless.
Step 2: Layer the Potatoes and Onions
Start layering by placing thin slices of Yukon gold potatoes and onion in the prepared dish. The alternating layers allow the onions’ sweetness to infuse throughout, creating a wonderful texture contrast and rich flavor depth.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of salted butter. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Gradually add almond or regular milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. This base is what makes Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe so irresistibly smooth and comforting.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese and Seasonings
Once your sauce is thickened, stir in the sharp cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is rich and velvety. This mixture is the heart of the dish, enveloping every bite in creamy, cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the luscious cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and onions. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to soften. Then, remove the foil, sprinkle the optional gruyere and parmesan on top, and return the dish to the oven for another 30 to 45 minutes until the cheese topping is perfectly golden and crisp.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness that brightens the rich, cheesy flavors. Now you’re ready to enjoy the creamy, comforting success of Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe!
How to Serve Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of chopped fresh parsley or chives adds a beautiful green contrast and a light herbal note that elevates the richness without overpowering it. For a touch of indulgence, a sprinkle of extra parmesan right before serving can add an inviting savory bite.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs delightfully well with roasted meats like chicken, beef, or pork, providing a creamy complement to juicy proteins. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables will add balance, keeping the meal light and colorful.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast irons for an elegant touch. You can also add a sprinkle of crispy bacon or toasted breadcrumbs on top before the final bake for extra texture and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors develop even more after resting, making it perfect for next-day enjoyment.
Freezing
If you want to save it for longer, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container before baking or after it has cooled completely. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw thoroughly in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power but keep an eye on the texture to avoid sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
While Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and ability to hold shape, russets or red potatoes can be used, but they may result in a slightly different texture. Yukon gold remain tender but firm, perfect for this recipe.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe is naturally vegetarian if you use vegetable-based milk and avoid adding meat toppings. It’s a delicious vegetarian comfort food all on its own.
Can I substitute the cheeses?
Yes, you can mix and match cheeses based on your preferences. Sharp cheddar is essential for bold flavor, but swapping gruyere with fontina or mozzarella can create different cheesy textures and tastes. Parmesan adds a sharp crust that’s hard to beat.
What if I don’t have almond milk?
Regular cow’s milk works perfectly in this recipe and will give you the classic creamy texture. You can also use other plant-based milks, but try to choose unsweetened versions to avoid altering the flavor.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Ensure your cheese and other ingredients are also gluten-free to keep the dish safe for dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
This recipe is truly a kitchen classic that brings joy, warmth, and smiles to any table. Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe is a timeless favorite that’s easy to make yet feels special enough for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Give it a try and watch it become your go-to comfort food you’ll want to make again and again.
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Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is a comforting and rich casserole featuring thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes layered with onions and smothered in a velvety cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, Gruyere, and parmesan. Baked to golden perfection, this dish is perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying main.
Ingredients
Potatoes & Vegetables
- 6–7 medium Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- ½ white or yellow onion, sliced
Dairy & Cheese
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Gruyere cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Dry Ingredients & Seasoning
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 2-quart square baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Layer Potatoes and Onions: Arrange thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes and sliced onions in alternating layers within the prepared baking dish for an even distribution of flavors.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to form a roux, cooking briefly until well combined. Gradually add the almond or regular milk, whisking constantly until the sauce is smooth and thickened to a creamy consistency.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the sauce until melted. Add garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing well to combine all flavors.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the cheesy sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and onions. Cover the baking dish with foil to keep moisture in and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Add Toppings and Finish Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle the Gruyere and parmesan cheeses evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes until the cheese topping is golden brown and bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let the casserole rest slightly, then garnish with fresh parsley for color and added freshness before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute almond milk with regular whole milk or any other preferred milk.
- Gruyere cheese is optional but adds a rich nutty flavor and creamy texture.
- Be sure to slice potatoes evenly for uniform baking and texture.
- Covering with foil initially helps potatoes cook evenly and prevents the top from burning.
- Let the dish rest a few minutes after baking to set and make slicing easier.
