Creamy au Gratin Potatoes are a classic comfort food that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a rich, velvety cheese sauce and baked to golden perfection. The result is a dish that’s irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, with a crispy, browned top. Perfect as a side dish for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or any special occasion, these au gratin potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes, without letting it brown.
- Add the milk and cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cheese and seasonings: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Add the salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg, stirring to combine.
- Layer the potatoes: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the dish.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve: Let the au gratin potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Enjoy your Creamy au Gratin Potatoes as a rich and flavorful side dish that complements any main course, providing a comforting and decadent addition to your meal.
