Potatoes au Gratin is a classic, indulgent dish that combines thinly sliced potatoes, rich cream, and a golden, crispy cheese topping. This comfort food is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any occasion when you want a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. The creamy texture of the potatoes paired with the sharp flavor of cheese creates a balanced and satisfying side dish that will complement almost any main course. Whether served alongside a roast, grilled meats, or a fresh salad, Potatoes au Gratin is always a crowd-pleaser.
The base of Potatoes au Gratin is made with thinly sliced potatoes, typically Russet potatoes, which are layered in a baking dish. The key to a creamy, smooth texture is the rich combination of heavy cream and milk, which is poured over the potatoes. To add depth of flavor, garlic, fresh thyme, and a pinch of nutmeg are often used to season the dish. The mixture is then topped with a generous amount of grated cheese, usually Gruyère or cheddar, creating a rich, melty, and slightly crispy top layer as the dish bakes.
For a golden, crispy finish, the potatoes are baked in the oven until the cheese is bubbling and the top has become perfectly golden brown. The result is a creamy, cheesy, and savory dish with layers of tender potatoes, all enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce. A touch of breadcrumbs can be sprinkled on top before baking to enhance the crunch and add an extra layer of texture.
Potatoes au Gratin is versatile and can be customized in many ways. You can mix in different cheeses such as Parmesan, fontina, or mozzarella to alter the flavor profile. Adding sautéed onions or shallots to the potato layers will enhance the savory taste. For a more indulgent touch, you can include cooked bacon or ham between the layers, creating a heartier version of this classic dish.
This dish is ideal for holiday feasts, dinner parties, or even as a comforting side on a chilly evening. It’s easy to make ahead of time and can be reheated, making it a perfect option for meal prepping. The creamy richness, cheesy top, and tender potatoes make Potatoes au Gratin a timeless favorite that is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 cups potatoes thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter cut into small pieces
- 1 clove garlic minced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Season with half of the salt, pepper, and garlic.
- Over the potatoes, pour half of the heavy cream, then sprinkle half of the cheese over the cream.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, salt, pepper, garlic, cream, and cheese.
- Dot the top with pieces of butter.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Honestly, I don’t get why everyone loves this dish. It’s just potatoes and cheese, right? Pretty plain if you ask me.
Wow, best au gratin I’ve made! The garlic gave it just the right kick. Will make again!
Too greasy for my liking. I think you could lessen the cream and it would still taste good. 😕
Potatoes = life!! I can’t believe I lived without this recipe until now! 🍽️❤️
Yum! Cheese and garlic perfection! My new favorite dish. Gonna make this for dinner every week! 😍
This was soooo good! My family couldn’t get enough. 5 stars for sure!
I tried this recipe and it was just ok. Not wowed but not bad either. Meh.
So simple and delicious! I used half-and-half instead of cream and it worked fine. Yum!
Potatoes and cheese, what’s not to love? But isn’t it just a glorified cheesy potato dish? 🤔
This recipe is amazing! The layers of cheese and creamy potatoes are just divine! 🤤
I totally agree! This dish is a childhood favorite for me! Yum!
I don’t know why everyone raves about this. It was too rich for me. Maybe I’ll try it with less cheese next time.
I don’t understand the hype. My grandma’s recipe is way better, and she doesn’t even use cream.
But wait, can you use different cheese? I have mozzarella, would that work? Asking for a friend.
Yes, mozzarella should work fine! It might be a bit stretchier, but it’ll taste great! Good luck! 😊
This turned out amazing! My family loved it, and it’s so cheesy! Will definitely make again.
I don’t get all the hype. It was just okay. I’ve had better via my grandmother’s recipe.
My kids loved it! Even my picky eater devoured his serving. Thanks for the recipe!
Quick question: can I use sour cream instead of heavy cream? Would that work? Asking for a friend.
Sour cream would probably make it tangy, but it might not be as rich. You could try it if you’re feeling adventurous!
Nah, stick with heavy cream. Sour cream is different and might ruin the whole recipe.
Yummy!!! 😋 Perfect for winter nights. Love potatoes and cheese!!
Really disapointed. I expected better. The butter is a bit much and tasted too heavy. 1 star.
I didn’t have heavy cream, so I used milk instead. It turned out kinda watery. Not great. 2/5.
You really needed the heavy cream for a nice texture! Milk won’t cut it for a dish like this. Better luck next time!
Easy to make! Pretty sure I just winged it and it turned out great! Can’t go wrong with cheese, right? 😂