scalloped au gratin potatoes recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best scalloped au gratin potatoes recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite scalloped au gratin potatoes recipe, a classic dish that never fails to impress my family and friends. This recipe has its roots in traditional French cuisine, where it’s known as ‘pommes de terre au gratin.’ The name literally translates to ‘gratin of potatoes,’ which is a fitting description for this rich and creamy side dish.

As a home cook, I love that this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation, yet it yields a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. The key to making great scalloped au gratin potatoes lies in the technique of layering thinly sliced potatoes with cheese and cream. This creates a crispy, golden-brown top and a fluffy, tender interior.

I like to use high-quality ingredients like sharp cheddar and heavy cream to give the dish an extra boost of flavor. Plus, the process of layering the ingredients is therapeutic and meditative, making it a great activity to do with kids or as a way to unwind after a long day. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is.

You can serve it as a side dish at family gatherings, or use it as a main event for special occasions like holidays or birthdays. It’s also a great way to use up leftover potatoes or cheese that’s nearing its expiration date. In terms of health benefits, scalloped au gratin potatoes are a relatively guilt-free option compared to other rich side dishes.

The potatoes are high in fiber and potassium, while the cheese and cream add some much-needed calcium and protein. Just be sure to balance out the dish by serving it with some steamed vegetables or a green salad on the side.

Scalloped Au Gratin Potatoes

4.7 from 1222 votes

A comforting classic dish featuring thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce with a crispy, golden cheese topping. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Potatoes

2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced

For the Sauce

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

For the Topping

1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3Place sliced potatoes and onions in a colander, rinse with cold water and drain well.
4Pat dry with a paper towel.
5In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
6Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
7Stir in flour to form a roux.
8Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns light brown.
9Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk.
10Add salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
11Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
12Arrange a layer of potatoes and onions in the baking dish.
13Pour 1/3 of the sauce over the potatoes, ensuring they are well coated.
14Repeat with two more layers of potatoes, onions, and sauce.
15Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
16Remove the foil and sprinkle the grated cheddar and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
17Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
18Use a fork to check the potatoes for tenderness.
19Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
20This allows the sauce to settle and makes it easier to serve.

🔧Equipment

9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Saucepan
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Watch Video Of How Scalloped Au Gratin Potatoes Works

This scalloped au gratin potatoes recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just need a comforting side dish for everyday meals.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it reheats; simply cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes until warmed through.

You can also store leftover scalloped au gratin potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months – perfect for meal prep or batch cooking.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Scalloped Au Gratin Potatoes

Q: What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?

A: For scalloped au gratin potatoes, you want to use high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho. These varieties will yield a crispy exterior and a light, fluffy interior.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. However, be sure to assemble the casserole just before baking to avoid sogginess.

Q: What if I don’t have any heavy cream?

A: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk if you’re in a pinch. However, keep in mind that these alternatives won’t provide the same richness and depth of flavor as heavy cream.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?

A: While sharp cheddar is traditional in this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or even blue cheese for added depth of flavor.

Q: How long does it take to cook?

A: The cooking time will depend on your oven temperature and the size of your casserole dish. As a general rule of thumb, expect 45-60 minutes for the potatoes to be tender and the top golden brown.

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