Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

There’s something truly special about a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and nostalgia, and Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes brings all of these elements together in one unforgettable side dish. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday with family, hosting a dinner party, or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With its rich, velvety sauce and the irresistible combination of three kinds of cheese, these au gratin potatoes are an absolute crowd-pleaser. The creamy texture, golden crust, and subtle hints of garlic and onion make each bite an indulgent experience.

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In this article, we will guide you through the simple steps to create this delicious dish, share tips for ingredient substitutions, and offer ideas for variations to make it your own. So, get ready to impress your loved ones with Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes – a dish that is as comforting as it is cheesy!

Ingredients Breakdown

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients that will transform ordinary potatoes into a decadent, cheesy masterpiece:

Potatoes and Onions:

• 6-7 medium Yukon Gold potatoes: These waxy potatoes are perfect for au gratin dishes because they hold their shape while becoming tender during baking. Their naturally buttery flavor complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• ½ white or yellow onion: Sliced onions add a savory depth of flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the richness of the cheese sauce.

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons salted butter: The butter provides a smooth base for the sauce, enhancing its creamy texture.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour: This flour helps to thicken the sauce, giving it that perfect, velvety consistency.
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk: While almond milk is used here to make the dish dairy-free, you can easily substitute it with regular milk (whole, skim, or 2%) for a more traditional taste.
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar cheese gives the sauce a bold and tangy flavor that is the hallmark of any great au gratin dish.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A touch of garlic powder elevates the savory flavor profile, making the sauce more aromatic.
• ¾ teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the cheese and balances the richness of the sauce. Feel free to adjust to taste.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and complexity to the dish.

For Topping:

• ½ cup Gruyere cheese: Gruyere melts beautifully and adds a nutty, savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with cheddar.
• ¼ cup grated parmesan: Parmesan adds a sharp, salty kick to the topping, creating a crispy, golden crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy potatoes.

To Garnish:

• Fresh chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to balance the richness of the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is a simple, yet rewarding process. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a comforting, cheesy dish in no time.

1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Lightly grease a 2-quart square baking dish (or an 8×12-inch dish) with nonstick spray or butter. This will ensure that the potatoes don’t stick to the pan while baking.
2. Arrange the Potatoes and Onions:
   • Slice the Yukon Gold potatoes into 1/8-inch rounds. You want the slices to be uniform so they cook evenly. Arrange the potato slices in three tight slanted rows, as shown in the photos. Be sure to leave a little space between each slice to allow for the sauce to permeate the potatoes.
   • Add the sliced onion between the potato layers and on top of the potatoes, ensuring they’re spread out evenly.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
   • Gradually whisk in the flour, then slowly add the almond milk (or regular milk if using), alternating between the flour and milk. Continue whisking to avoid lumps, until the mixture thickens and reaches the consistency of creamy gravy.
   • Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper as necessary. The sauce should be rich, creamy, and full of cheesy goodness.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes and onions, making sure to coat every slice. The sauce will seep into the potatoes while baking, ensuring a creamy and flavorful dish.
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Add the Toppings:
   • After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the top of the potatoes with ½ cup shredded Gruyere and ¼ cup grated Parmesan. These cheeses will melt into a golden, crispy crust on top of the potatoes, adding both flavor and texture.
   • Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
   • Serve this cheesy, creamy masterpiece as the perfect side dish for any occasion.

Flavor, Texture, and Aroma

As the dish bakes, the aroma of melting cheese, butter, and garlic fills the kitchen, enticing everyone around. The layers of Yukon Gold potatoes soften to perfection, with each slice tender and creamy on the inside. The cheese sauce, made from sharp cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan, creates a rich and smooth coating that hugs the potatoes in a velvety embrace. The addition of garlic powder enhances the savory depth of the sauce, while the onions provide a subtle sweetness that balances the richness. The golden, crispy cheese topping offers a satisfying contrast to the creamy potatoes, adding both texture and flavor to every bite.

Tips for Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Potatoes: While Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this dish, you can also use Russet potatoes for a fluffier texture. However, keep in mind that they may break down a bit more during baking.
• Milk: If you prefer a dairy-free version, stick with almond milk, or try coconut milk for a hint of sweetness. If you’re not concerned about dairy, you can opt for whole milk or heavy cream for an extra indulgent result.
• Cheese: The combination of cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan is a winning trio, but feel free to experiment. Try swapping Gruyere for Fontina or Swiss for a different flavor profile. Add Monterey Jack for extra meltiness or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
• Herbs and Spices: While parsley is used for garnish, feel free to mix in some fresh thyme or rosemary into the sauce for added flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can also add a hint of heat and smokiness.

Serving Suggestions

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are the perfect side dish to pair with a variety of main courses. Serve them alongside:

• Roast chicken or roast turkey for a classic comfort meal.
• Grilled steaks or pork chops for a hearty, satisfying dinner.
• Salmon fillets or seared scallops for a luxurious seafood pairing.
• Green vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed broccoli to balance out the richness of the potatoes.

This dish also makes a great addition to a holiday spread, complementing the flavors of festive meats, fresh salads, and hearty breads.

Conclusion

With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and irresistible golden crust, Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are a must-try recipe for any occasion. This dish combines simplicity with indulgence, making it a favorite at family gatherings and dinner parties alike. Whether you’re looking for a side dish that will steal the show or simply want to treat yourself to something comforting, this recipe will not disappoint.

So, grab your potatoes, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your home. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and let the cheesy magic unfold!