Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Discover the ultimate creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes recipe, perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. Made with thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes, a rich cheddar and Gruyere cheese sauce, and topped with Parmesan for a golden, crispy finish. This easy homemade au gratin recipe is a comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, vegetables, or salads. Learn how to make this classic potato casserole with step-by-step instructions, tips for substitutions, and answers to your FAQs. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a weeknight treat, these cheesy scalloped potatoes are sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 6-7 medium Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced into 1/8-inch rounds (about 3 pounds by weight)
• ½ white or yellow onion, sliced

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat or gluten-free 1:1 flour)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or regular, skim, or whole milk)
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (about 2 heaping cups shredded)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• ½ cup Gruyere cheese (or additional sharp cheddar)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish:

• Fresh chopped parsley

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Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish and Potatoes:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 2-quart square baking dish or an 8×12-inch dish with nonstick cooking spray, butter, or oil.
2. Arrange the sliced potatoes in three tight, slanted rows in the baking dish, leaving enough space for the slices to tilt slightly. Insert onion slices between the rows and over the top of the potatoes.

Make the Sauce:

1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Gradually whisk in the flour, alternating with milk in small increments. Whisk continuously to avoid lumps, and bring the mixture to a simmer until it reaches a creamy gravy-like consistency.
3. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.

Assemble and Bake:

1. Pour the sauce evenly over the potatoes and onions, ensuring they are well-coated.
2. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Add the Topping and Finish Baking:

1. Remove the foil, sprinkle the top with Gruyere (or more cheddar) and Parmesan cheese.
2. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and golden brown on top.
3. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy layers of potatoes with a golden, crispy topping make this a dish everyone loves.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you’ll have this side dish ready in no time.
• Versatile: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy weeknight dinner.

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Tips

• Uniform Slices: Use a mandoline slicer to ensure even potato slices for consistent cooking.
• Choose the Right Dish: A shallow dish helps the potatoes cook evenly and develop a crispy topping.
• Prevent Lumps: Whisk vigorously when making the sauce, adding milk gradually for a smooth texture.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Options: Swap Gruyere for mozzarella or Swiss, or experiment with your favorite cheeses.
• Milk Alternatives: Heavy cream or half-and-half can be used for an even richer sauce.
• Add Protein: Layer cooked ham or bacon between the potato slices for a hearty variation.
• Herbs and Spices: Add thyme, rosemary, or paprika for extra flavor.

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FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

Can I use a different type of potato?
Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for their creaminess, but russets or red potatoes can work as substitutes.

How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?
The potatoes are done when a fork easily pierces through the center of the layers.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted meats like chicken, beef, or pork for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside fresh green beans or a crisp salad to balance the richness.
• For holiday gatherings, this dish complements turkey, ham, or prime rib beautifully.

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