potatoes au gratin recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
potatoes au gratin recipe
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best potatoes au gratin recipe

I’ve always been a fan of potatoes au gratin, and it’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations in my family. The dish originated in France, where it was known as ‘pommes de terre au gratin,’ and it’s a staple in many European cuisines. The key to making a great potatoes au gratin is to use high-quality ingredients, including fresh potatoes, butter, and cheese.

I like to use a mix of cheddar and Parmesan for the best flavor. The technique is simple: thinly slice the potatoes, layer them in a baking dish, and top with a mixture of cream, cheese, and seasonings. Bake until golden brown and bubbly.

It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. My family loves it when I make it for Sunday dinner. It’s also a great way to use up leftover potatoes and cheese.

The best part is that it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. I like to add some diced ham or bacon for added protein. My kids love when I serve it with a side of steamed broccoli for a healthier option.

Overall, potatoes au gratin is a classic recipe that never goes out of style.

Potatoes Au Gratin

Potatoes Au Gratin

4.6 from 1231 votes

This classic French dish features thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce with cheese. It is a comforting and rich side dish perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 370 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 cups grated Gruyere cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
3Peel and thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline slicer, ensuring they are evenly sliced to about 1/8-inch thickness.
4In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
6Add the flour to the saucepan and whisk to form a roux, cooking for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.
7Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
8Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it thicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9Season with salt and black pepper.
10Add the sliced potatoes to the baking dish, overlapping them slightly.
11Pour the cream mixture evenly over the potatoes, ensuring they are well coated.
12Sprinkle the grated Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
13Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
14After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
15Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the potatoes; they should be soft and easily pierced.

🔧Equipment

Mandoline slicer
Baking dish
Saucepan
Whisk
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 370 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 950mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: Use a mandoline slicer for even potato slices. You can substitute other cheeses like cheddar or Swiss for a different flavor profile.

Watch Video Of How Potatoes Au Gratin Works

This recipe is always a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings or potlucks. You can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it reheats – simply pop it in the oven or microwave until warm and bubbly. It’s also easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or leftovers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Potatoes Au Gratin

What type of potatoes are best for making potatoes au gratin?

For this recipe, you’ll want to use high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho. These types of potatoes will yield the fluffiest results.

Can I make potatoes au gratin ahead of time?

You can prepare the potato layers and the cream mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and bake the dish just before serving.

How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming too mushy?

To prevent overcooking, make sure to not overbake the potatoes. Check on them after 30 minutes and cover the dish with foil if they’re getting too dark.

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

You can mix and match different cheeses to create your favorite flavor combination. Some popular options include Gruyère, Gouda, or even goat cheese.

Is it okay if my potatoes au gratin isn’t perfectly golden brown?

A perfectly golden-brown crust is ideal, but don’t worry if it doesn’t turn out perfectly – it will still taste delicious!

Similar Posts