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Cheesy Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe

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4.5 from 117 reviews

This Cheesy Potatoes Au Gratin recipe features tender russet potatoes baked in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and Parmesan. This comforting classic side dish is perfect for family dinners or holiday meals, boasting a golden, bubbly top and garnished with fresh parsley for a bright finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 2 lbs russet potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (warmed)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (more to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for color)

Garnish

  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and prepare for the layers.
  2. Prepare the sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it turns lightly golden. Slowly whisk in the warmed milk and cream until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
  3. Season the sauce: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens slightly to a creamy consistency.
  4. Add the cheeses: Remove the sauce from heat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Layer the potatoes: Place half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over these potatoes. Then add the remaining potatoes in an even layer on top.
  6. Pour the remaining sauce: Carefully pour the rest of the cheese sauce over the top layer of potatoes, ensuring it covers them evenly.
  7. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the dish to create a golden crust while baking.
  8. Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes in the preheated oven. This allows the potatoes to cook through and the flavors to meld.
  9. Finish baking uncovered: Remove the foil from the dish and bake for an additional 20 minutes. This will brown the top and ensure the potatoes are tender and fully cooked.
  10. Rest and garnish: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking to thicken slightly. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

  • For best results, slice potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting.
  • If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute half-and-half for the cream or reduce cheese slightly.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated covered in the oven or microwave.
  • Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or thyme to the sauce for additional flavor layers.

Keywords: Cheesy Potatoes Au Gratin, potato casserole, creamy potato bake, cheddar potato dish, holiday side dish

Find it online: https://thedishspot.com/cheesy-potatoes-au-gratin-recipe/