Au Gratin Potatoes are a rich and comforting side dish that combines thinly sliced potatoes with a creamy, cheesy sauce, baked to golden perfection. This classic dish is a staple at holiday meals and special occasions, offering layers of tender potatoes and a luscious, savory sauce that’s hard to resist. The combination of Gruyère and Parmesan cheese adds depth of flavor, while the hint of garlic and nutmeg enhances the overall richness. Perfect for pairing with roast meats or a hearty main course, Au Gratin Potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife.
- Thinly slice the onion and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and whole milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Add the shredded Gruyère cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Top with half of the sliced onions.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and onions, spreading it evenly.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce.
- Bake the Potatoes:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the Au Gratin Potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Enjoy your rich and creamy Au Gratin Potatoes, a perfect side dish for any special occasion!
