Cheesy Potatoes Au Gratin
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the rich, creamy, and savory flavors of Potatoes au Gratin. This French classic is a perfect side dish for any special occasion or even a weeknight meal that requires a little indulgence. With layers of thinly sliced potatoes, butter, cream, garlic, and melted cheese, Potatoes au Gratin promises a deliciously crispy golden top and a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture underneath.
Ingredients
- 1 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 2 cups heavy cream (or a mix of cream and milk)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for greasing)
- 1 ½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or cheddar cheese, or a mix)
- 1 cups breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced, optional for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly (about ⅛ inch thick). For uniform slices, a mandoline slicer works best.
- Layer the potatoes: Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic (if using). Add a small handful of cheese over the potatoes.
- Repeat the layering: Continue layering potatoes, seasoning, and cheese until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a top layer of cheese.
- Prepare the cream sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, add salt, pepper, and thyme, and bring to a simmer. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Pour the cream over the potatoes: Pour the prepared cream sauce evenly over the layered potatoes. Make sure the potatoes are fully covered.
- Top with breadcrumbs (optional): If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top layer of cheese for a crunchy topping.
- Bake the dish: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve and enjoy: Let the dish cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve as a delicious side dish with your favorite main course.
Notes
- You can make this dish ahead of time by preparing it, covering it, and storing it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- For a more indulgent dish, add extra cheese between the layers or use a combination of cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.