If you are on the hunt for a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth side dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then look no further than Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe. This classic family favorite boasts tender Yukon gold potatoes layered with sweet onions and smothered in a luscious, velvety cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection. It strikes the perfect balance between creamy and cheesy without being overly heavy, making it the ultimate dish to share with loved ones on cozy nights or special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity—each ingredient plays an essential role in delivering the rich taste and perfect texture that defines Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe. From the buttery base to the blend of melty cheeses, here’s what makes it so special:
- 6-7 medium Yukon gold potatoes: Their creamy texture and subtle flavor hold up beautifully during baking.
- ½ white or yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth between the potato layers.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter: Creates the rich roux base essential for a smooth sauce.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to perfectly cling to every slice.
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk): Adds creaminess while keeping the sauce light.
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Brings that signature cheesy punch with great flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes without overpowering.
- ¾ teaspoon salt: Balances all ingredients with just the right seasoning.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- ½ cup gruyere cheese (optional): Introduces a nutty undertone and helps create a beautifully golden crust.
- ¼ cup grated parmesan: Adds a sharp, salty finish to the topping.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Provides a pop of color and fresh brightness at the end.
How to Make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Grease a 2-quart square baking dish generously with butter or nonstick spray to ensure the potatoes don’t stick and the crust forms beautifully golden edges.
Step 2: Layer the Potatoes and Onions
Slice the Yukon gold potatoes thinly and the onion into neat rounds. Alternating layers of potatoes and onions in the baking dish lets their flavors meld perfectly as they bake, giving every bite a subtle sweetness and heartiness.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Whisk in the flour steadily to create a smooth roux—this is the foundation for the luscious sauce. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy without lumps.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Seasonings
Now comes the magic: stir in the sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is glossy and rich. This mixture is what sets Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe apart, making it so irresistible.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and onions. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap moisture so the potatoes cook through gently without drying out. Bake for 45 minutes to let everything soften and meld together.
Step 6: Add the Toppings and Finish Baking
After the initial baking, remove the foil and sprinkle the optional gruyere and parmesan cheeses evenly on top. Return the dish to the oven uncovered for another 30 to 45 minutes, until the cheese topping turns golden brown and bubbling with that perfect crunch.
How to Serve Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley adds a vibrant touch that brightens up the dish visually and adds a hint of fresh herbaceous flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the richness of the cheese sauce.
Side Dishes
This au gratin masterpiece pairs wonderfully alongside protein-rich mains like roasted chicken, juicy steaks, or glazed ham. Its creamy texture complements crisp green vegetables such as roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans for a balanced plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe in individual ramekins for elegant presentation, or add a crispy breadcrumb topping mixed with fresh herbs for an extra layer of texture that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store leftover au gratin potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors will deepen overnight.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully when cooled completely. Portion into freezer-safe containers and cover tightly. You can enjoy the ease of homemade comfort food later without sacrificing quality for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in a 350°F oven covered with foil to prevent drying, until heated through and bubbly. Avoid the microwave for best texture, though it works in a pinch.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Yukon gold potatoes offer a creamy texture and rich flavor ideal for this recipe, russet potatoes or red potatoes can be used, though they may affect the creamy consistency slightly.
Is there a dairy-free version of Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe?
Yes! Using unsweetened almond milk and a dairy-free cheese substitute can create a similar creamy and cheesy experience that’s suitable for those avoiding dairy.
Can I prepare the dish ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a little extra baking time since it will be coming straight from the fridge.
Why is it important to slice the potatoes thinly?
Thin slices ensure that the potatoes cook evenly and become tender within the baking time, allowing the creamy sauce to saturate every slice perfectly.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
If your sauce feels too thick, whisk in a bit more milk slowly until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, continue cooking gently until it thickens or add a pinch more flour during the roux step next time.
Final Thoughts
There is truly nothing like the comforting, cheesy embrace of Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe. Whether you’re treating yourself on a chilly evening or impressing guests with a classic side, this dish has a way of making everyone feel right at home. I hope you give it a try soon and discover why it’s so beloved in many kitchens, including mine.
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Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 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 classic comforting casserole featuring layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes and onions baked in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Enhanced with garlic, gruyere, and parmesan cheeses, this dish delivers a golden, bubbling crust and a velvety interior perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Vegetables
- 6–7 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- ½ white or yellow onion, sliced
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Toppings and Garnishes
- ½ cup Gruyere cheese (optional), shredded
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a 2-quart square baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer Potatoes and Onions: Arrange thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes and sliced onions in alternating layers within the prepared baking dish, distributing evenly.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to form a smooth roux. Gradually add the almond milk, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and thickened to a creamy consistency.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined. Then, mix in garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and onions in the baking dish, ensuring all layers are covered. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake Covered: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to become tender under the sauce.
- Add Toppings and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle the optional shredded Gruyere and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm as a delicious side or main dish.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and thin slicing to ensure even cooking.
- If you prefer a richer sauce, substitute almond milk with whole milk or half-and-half.
- Covering the dish during the initial baking phase helps potatoes steam and become tender.
- The Gruyere cheese is optional but adds a wonderful nutty richness to the dish.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for easier serving.
- This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated; increase baking time by 10-15 minutes if baked cold from the fridge.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch slurry.
