Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes are a comforting and delicious side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. With layers of tender potatoes and cheese, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. It is not only rich and creamy but also simple to prepare, making it an ideal option for cooks of all skill levels.

How to Make Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 4 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced into rings
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400F (200C) and butter a 1-quart casserole dish.
2. Layer half of the potato slices in the bottom of the dish, seasoning them with salt and pepper.
3. Next, layer the onion slices over the potatoes, followed by the rest of the potato slices. Season again with salt and pepper.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt, cooking for about 1 minute.
5. Gradually add the milk, whisking well to avoid lumps, and cook until thickened for 3 to 5 minutes.
6. Stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese until it melts, creating a creamy cheese sauce.
7. Pour the cheese sauce over the layered potatoes and onions.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 1 1/2 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly.

How to Serve Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes

Serve Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes hot from the oven, directly onto the plate. They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad. This dish is rich, so a small serving goes a long way!

How to Store Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes

To store Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes, let them cool completely. Then cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Tips to Make Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes

• Make sure to slice the potatoes as evenly as possible for even cooking.
• For an extra cheesy flavor, try mixing different types of cheese, like Gruyère or mozzarella, with the Cheddar.
• If you prefer a crisp top, you can uncover the foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Variation

You can add cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms to the layers for added flavor and texture. For a healthier twist, consider using sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

2. Can I substitute non-dairy milk?
Absolutely! You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk. Just be sure to choose an unsweetened variety for the best flavor.

3. Is it necessary to cover the dish with foil while baking?
Yes, covering the dish helps to trap moisture and steam the potatoes until they are tender. You can remove the foil during the last 15 minutes if you want the top to brown.