Cheesy Potato Gratin

Introduction

Cheesy Potato Gratin, or Au Gratin Potatoes, is a rich and creamy side dish perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or weeknight dinners. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a velvety cheese sauce made from three types of cheese—creating a dish that’s irresistibly flavorful and perfectly golden on top. This recipe is both indulgent and comforting, making it a favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 6-7 medium Yukon gold potatoes (about 3 lbs), thinly sliced (1/8 inch rounds)
• ½ white or yellow onion, thinly sliced

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups milk (almond milk, whole, or skim)
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Topping:

• ½ cup Gruyère cheese (or additional sharp cheddar)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Grease a 2-quart baking dish (or an 8×12 pan) with butter or cooking spray.
2. Slice the Potatoes:
   • Use a mandolin slicer for even 1/8-inch slices of potatoes. Arrange them in slightly slanted, overlapping rows in the baking dish. Tuck onion slices between and on top of the rows.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
   • Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until slightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened (like gravy).
   • Reduce heat to low, add shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Assemble and Bake:
   • Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and onions, ensuring it seeps between the layers.
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Add Topping:
   • Remove the foil and sprinkle Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Potato Gratin is the ultimate creamy, cheesy comfort food. The layers of tender potatoes combined with a velvety cheese sauce and a crispy golden top create a show-stopping side dish. Perfect for holidays like Thanksgiving, Easter, or any meal where you want to impress, this gratin is sure to leave your family and guests asking for seconds! Enjoy every cheesy bite.

For more details, visit the full recipe

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