Potatoes Au Gratin

Name: Potatoes Au Gratin
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced; 2 cups heavy cream; 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the baking dish

Highlighted under: Baking Favorites

Delight in the creamy richness of Potatoes Au Gratin, a classic dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-01T19:37:44.363Z

Potatoes Au Gratin is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes are baked with a creamy cheese sauce, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite
Perfectly baked with a golden, crispy top
A comforting side dish that pairs well with any main course

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

Potatoes Au Gratin is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender layers of potatoes smothered in creamy cheese sauce. This dish not only pleases the palate but also warms the heart. It's perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a touch of indulgence. The creamy texture and rich flavors create a delightful experience that keeps everyone coming back for more.

This dish is versatile and can complement a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to hearty vegetarian options. Whether served alongside a succulent roast chicken or a flavorful vegetable stew, Potatoes Au Gratin elevates any meal, making it a must-have on your table.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

When making Potatoes Au Gratin, it's essential to choose the right type of potatoes. Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy nature, which helps achieve that perfect creamy texture. Their ability to hold shape while baking ensures that each bite is both tender and satisfying. If you're looking for an alternative, Yukon Gold potatoes offer a buttery flavor and creamy consistency, making them another excellent choice.

For the best results, slice your potatoes evenly. A mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform thickness, ensuring even cooking and a beautiful presentation. Thin slices allow the potatoes to absorb the creamy sauce while still maintaining a bit of bite.

Customizing Your Gratin

While the classic recipe is undoubtedly delicious, feel free to customize your Potatoes Au Gratin to suit your preferences. Consider adding sautéed onions or leeks for an aromatic base or mix in some cooked bacon or ham for added flavor. For a touch of freshness, you can also sprinkle some herbs, like thyme or rosemary, between the layers to enhance the dish's complexity.

If you're a fan of spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can add a lovely kick. Don't hesitate to experiment with different cheese combinations too! While Gruyère and cheddar are fantastic, trying other cheeses like fontina or mozzarella can create new flavor profiles that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Gratin

4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the baking dish

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.

Layer the Potatoes

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Add Cheese and Cream

Sprinkle half of the Gruyère and cheddar cheese over the potatoes. Pour half of the heavy cream and add half of the minced garlic.

Repeat the Layers

Layer the remaining potatoes, followed by the rest of the cheese, cream, and garlic. Season again with salt and pepper.

Bake the Gratin

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Potatoes Au Gratin!

For best results, serve immediately while hot.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Potatoes Au Gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the dish’s creamy texture, reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature, around 325°F (165°C), covered with foil to prevent drying out. This method allows the cheese to become melty and the potatoes to warm through without losing their quality.

If you're short on time, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just be mindful to do so in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. For an extra crispy top, consider finishing them off in the oven for a few minutes.

Pairing Suggestions

Potatoes Au Gratin pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. For a classic combination, serve it alongside roasted meats like beef, chicken, or pork. The creamy richness of the gratin provides a lovely contrast to the savory notes of roasted proteins. Alternatively, it complements grilled fish or shrimp, adding a comforting touch to lighter fare.

For a vegetarian meal, consider pairing the gratin with a fresh salad or sautéed seasonal vegetables. This balance of textures and flavors creates a satisfying and well-rounded dining experience. Don’t forget to add a glass of your favorite wine to elevate the meal further!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat in the oven before serving.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Gruyère and sharp cheddar are great choices, but you can experiment with others like fontina or mozzarella.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add layers of cooked broccoli, spinach, or even mushrooms for added flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.