Potatoes Au Gratin

Name: Potatoes Au Gratin
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for greasing; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

Indulge in the creamy and cheesy goodness of Potatoes Au Gratin. This classic dish is perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-01T21:49:44.229Z

Potatoes Au Gratin is a beloved comfort food that combines thinly sliced potatoes with a rich cheese sauce. This dish has been a staple in many households, offering warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Perfect as a side dish or even as a main course, it brings a touch of elegance to any meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy layers of cheese and potatoes that create a divine texture
A golden, crispy top that adds a delightful crunch
Ideal for family gatherings and holiday feasts

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

Potatoes Au Gratin stand as a timeless comfort food, bringing warmth and joy to any table. The creamy layers of potatoes combined with rich cheeses create an indulgent dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Whether you are serving it during a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and happiness.

The versatility of Potatoes Au Gratin allows it to complement a variety of main courses. Pair it with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. Its rich flavors make it a perfect side dish that enhances the overall dining experience, leaving your guests asking for seconds.

Tips for the Best Au Gratin

To achieve the ultimate creamy and cheesy texture, ensure that your potatoes are sliced evenly. A mandoline slicer works wonders for this task, allowing for uniform thickness that cooks evenly. Additionally, using a mix of cheeses, such as Gruyère and sharp cheddar, adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience.

Don’t rush the baking process; allowing the dish to bake covered and then uncovered ensures that the potatoes cook through while developing a beautiful golden crust. If you prefer an extra crispy top, consider broiling for a minute or two at the end, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Potatoes Au Gratin, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This simple addition enhances the dish's visual appeal and provides a lovely contrast to the rich flavors. You can also add a sprinkle of paprika or additional cheese on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor.

For a complete meal, serve the gratin alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will balance the richness of the potatoes, creating a harmonious dining experience. Additionally, a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of this dish.

Ingredients

For the Gratin

4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for greasing
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.

Layer the Potatoes

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in a single layer at the bottom of the baking dish.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until combined and warm.

Add Cheese to the Sauce

Remove from heat and stir in the Gruyère and cheddar cheeses until melted and smooth.

Combine and Bake

Pour half of the cheese sauce over the first layer of potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Finish Baking

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for added flavor and color!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Potatoes Au Gratin ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Assemble it and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe? Russet potatoes are ideal for Potatoes Au Gratin due to their starchy nature, which helps achieve a creamy texture. However, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly buttery flavor and creaminess.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Potatoes Au Gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture, reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can cover it with foil to prevent drying out during the reheating process.

If you want to freeze the gratin, it’s best to do so before baking. Assemble the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.

→ What type of potatoes are best for Au Gratin?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best due to their starchy nature, which helps create a creamy texture.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.

→ Is it possible to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use low-fat cheese, but it may change the flavor and texture slightly.