Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that will leave your family and friends raving, these Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are just the ticket! This recipe is a warm hug on a plate, filled with creamy potatoes and roasted garlic, all topped with a golden crust of cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, these potatoes are bound to steal the show. I promise, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Imagine this: a crispy top layer gives way to tender, cheesy layers underneath—each bite is pure comfort food bliss. Whether it’s a holiday dinner or just a cozy weeknight meal, this dish brings everyone together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, even beginner cooks can whip up this delicious dish.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Who can resist gooey cheese and creamy potatoes? This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted garlic and sharp cheddar creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds!
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with any main course, from grilled chicken to veggie burgers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for these Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes! Most of these are likely already in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Roasted Garlic

• 1 bulb garlic
• Drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil

For the Cheese Sauce

• 6 strips bacon (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (add an additional 2 tablespoons if skipping the bacon)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (chopped)
• 12 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (shredded + more for topping if needed)

For the Potatoes

• 4-5 medium Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 6 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese (shredded)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with different ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Instead of bacon, use sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian twist.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
• Add vegetables: Layer in some steamed broccoli or cauliflower for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat!

How to Make Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Slice off the tops of the garlic bulb to expose the cloves. Drizzling them with olive oil helps bring out their natural sweetness while roasting. Wrap them in foil and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes until they’re soft and golden. Roasting garlic adds depth and flavor that elevates this dish!

Step 2: Prepare Your Oven

Lower your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). While it cools down, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so your cheesy goodness doesn’t stick.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove it from the skillet and crumble it up. Be sure to reserve some of that tasty bacon fat—it’s packed with flavor!

Step 4: Make the Roux

Add butter to your skillet along with that reserved bacon fat. Once melted, sprinkle in flour and whisk together until you create a roux. This mixture helps thicken our cheese sauce. Cook it just long enough until it’s golden; we want flavor without burning.

Step 5: Create Your Sauce

Gradually pour in your milk while whisking constantly—this prevents lumps from forming. Keep whisking until your sauce thickens nicely; this could take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 6: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Now it’s time to stir in those delicious roasted garlic cloves—about five or six should do it! Add paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper too; they bring warmth and aromatic flavors into our dish.

Step 7: Combine with Cheese

Slowly mix in your shredded sharp cheddar cheese until everything is creamy and delightful! The cheese should melt perfectly into that rich sauce we’ve created.

Step 8: Layer It Up!

Place those thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes in your greased baking dish. Pour all that cheesy goodness over them; make sure every slice gets coated evenly. If you’re using bacon, sprinkle it on top now!

Step 9: Bake It Perfectly

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Afterward, uncover it, sprinkle more cheddar on top if desired, then bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown.

And there you have it—your very own Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes! Enjoy this comforting side dish that will surely become a favorite at your table.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Making cheesy au gratin potatoes is a delightful experience, and with a few expert tips, you can take your dish to the next level!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for this recipe due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. They hold up well during baking and contribute to that signature comfort food feel.
• Don’t rush the garlic: Roasting the garlic until soft and golden enhances its sweetness, creating a more flavorful sauce. Patience here pays off with a rich depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Layer the cheese: For an extra cheesy experience, consider layering cheeses throughout the potatoes rather than just on top. This ensures every bite is oozing with melty goodness.
• Bake covered then uncovered: Starting with aluminum foil keeps moisture in, allowing the potatoes to cook evenly. Uncovering toward the end promotes a beautiful golden crust that adds texture.
• Let it rest: Allowing your au gratin potatoes to sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking helps them set up nicely, making it easier to serve and enhancing flavors as they meld together.

How to Serve Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Cheesy au gratin potatoes make for an impressive centerpiece on any dinner table. Their creamy texture and golden topping are sure to catch everyone’s eye! Here’s how you can elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese.
• Cracked black pepper: A few grinds of freshly cracked black pepper on top provide not only visual interest but also a hint of spice that complements the flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: The crispness of steamed broccoli balances out the richness of the cheesy potatoes while adding a healthy touch.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring another layer of flavor; their natural sugars caramelize beautifully, making them a delightful companion.
• Grilled chicken breast: This lean protein is an excellent option that pairs well without overpowering the dish’s creamy goodness.
• Garden salad: A simple garden salad with light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, helping cleanse your palate between bites of rich potatoes.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your cheesy au gratin potatoes will not only taste amazing but look stunning at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These cheesy au gratin potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor their creamy goodness throughout the week. Whether you’re prepping for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish can be made in advance and stored for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cheesy au gratin potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For optimal freshness, cover the top with additional cheese if desired.

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen cheesy au gratin potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• You may add a little milk or cream to keep it creamy, and re-sprinkle cheese on top before baking for extra indulgence.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delightful dish, here are some common questions!

Can I make Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes without bacon?

Absolutely! You can simply omit the bacon and use additional butter instead. This will keep your dish rich and flavorful without any animal-derived ingredients.

How do I ensure my Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are creamy?

To achieve that creamy texture, be sure to whisk your sauce thoroughly as you add the milk, and let it cook until thickened. Using high-quality cheese also makes a significant difference!

Can I use other types of cheese in Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. Just remember to maintain that sharpness to balance the creaminess.

How long does it take to bake Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes?

Baking typically takes about 60 minutes total: 45 minutes covered with foil and an additional 15-20 minutes uncovered until golden brown.

Can I use other types of potatoes in this recipe?

While Yukon Golds provide great flavor and texture, you can also use Russet or red potatoes. Just make sure they’re sliced thinly for even cooking!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for cheesy au gratin potatoes finds its way into your kitchen! It’s a comforting side dish that’s not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Enjoy making it, sharing it with loved ones, and experiencing the joy it brings to your table. Happy cooking!