Print

Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
Print Recipe

Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is a classic comfort food featuring tender, thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, velvety cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and Parmesan. Ready in under 45 minutes, this dish offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and cheesy flavor with a golden crust, ideal as a hearty side or a star for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 4 cups Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8 inch thick

Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Herbs

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep and slice the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them into evenly thin rounds about 1/8 inch thick to ensure even cooking and proper absorption of the sauce.
  2. Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  3. Layer potatoes and sauce: Butter a baking dish, then arrange half of the potato slices evenly in the dish. Pour half of the creamy cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potato slices and cheese sauce, layering to trap the sauce deep inside the potatoes.
  4. Bake to golden perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is bubbling and golden brown.
  5. Rest and serve: Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes after baking so the sauce can set slightly, making it easier to serve and enhancing the texture.

Notes

  • Slice potatoes evenly using a mandoline for consistent thickness and even cooking.
  • Use a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses for complex flavor and a perfect melted crust.
  • Season lightly with salt and pepper between layers for balanced seasoning throughout.
  • Do not skip the resting time post-baking to allow flavors to meld and sauce to thicken.
  • Fresh garlic provides superior aroma and a subtle, delicious kick to the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: au gratin, potatoes, cheesy potatoes, comfort food, creamy potatoes, baked potatoes, side dish

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/creamy-cheesy-au-gratin-potatoes/