Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Yield:

6
servings

Prep Time:

20
mins

Cook Time:

1
hr
25
mins

Total Time:

1
hr
45
mins

4.63 stars (72 ratings)

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Ingredients

• 
  1 ¼
  cups
  
  shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 
  1 ¼
  cups
  
  shredded Monterey jack cheese
• 
  ½
  cup
  
  grated Parmesan cheese
• 
  2
  teaspoons
  
  cornstarch
• 
  3
  pounds
  
  russet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 
  ¾
  cup
  
  heavy cream
• 
  ½
  cup
  
  low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position an oven rack in the middle. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the cheese mixture and toss gently until all the cheese is evenly coated. This step is crucial for preventing the cheese from clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.
2. Prepare a large gratin dish (approximately a 2- to 3-quart capacity). Arrange half of your thinly sliced russet potatoes in an overlapping, “shingle” pattern across the bottom of the dish. This technique not only looks beautiful but also helps the potatoes cook evenly. Sprinkle this layer of potatoes with 1 1/2 cups of the prepared cheese mixture, followed by 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
3. Carefully arrange the remaining half of the sliced potatoes over the first layer, again using the neat shingle pattern. Season this top layer with another 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, ensuring even distribution.
4. In a large liquid measuring cup, whisk together the heavy cream and low-sodium chicken broth until well combined. Gently pour this creamy liquid evenly over the layered potatoes in the gratin dish. Make sure the liquid seeps down between the potato slices for maximum flavor and moisture.
5. Finally, generously sprinkle the remaining cheese mixture over the entire surface of the potatoes. This top layer of cheese will bake into a beautiful golden crust, adding incredible texture and flavor.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 75 to 85 minutes, or until the top is gloriously golden brown and bubbling, and the potatoes are incredibly tender. To check for doneness, insert a fork into the center of the dish; it should slide in easily with very little resistance.
7. Once baked to perfection, remove the au gratin potatoes from the oven and allow them to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This crucial resting period allows the creamy cheese sauce to set and firm up slightly, making for cleaner, more defined servings. Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Notes & Expert Tips for Success

Slicing the Potatoes: The secret to evenly cooked, tender au gratin potatoes lies in uniform slicing. Aim for a consistent 1/8-inch thickness for all your potato slices. Attempting this by hand can be challenging. A mandoline slicer is your best friend for achieving perfectly thin, uniform slices quickly and safely. Alternatively, a food processor equipped with a slicing disk works wonderfully. If neither is available, the slicing side of a sturdy box grater can be used, though it requires more careful attention.

Choosing the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are highly recommended for this dish due to their high starch content. This starch breaks down during baking, contributing to the incredibly creamy texture of the sauce and preventing the dish from becoming watery. While other potatoes like Yukon Golds can be used, russets will yield the most classic and satisfying result.

The Magic of Cornstarch: Don’t skip the step of tossing the cheese with cornstarch! This simple trick prevents the cheese from clumping together and ensures that the sauce remains smooth, luscious, and beautifully integrated with the cream and broth, avoiding any graininess or oil separation.

Seasoning Layers: Seasoning each layer of potatoes with salt and pepper is key to building complex flavor throughout the dish. This ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned, rather than just the top layer.

Preventing Browning: Once peeled and sliced, potatoes can oxidize and turn brown quickly. To prevent this, submerge your sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water while you prepare the other ingredients. Just be sure to drain them thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel before assembling the dish to avoid excess moisture.

Author:
Mel

Course:
Side Dish

Cuisine:
American

Method:
Bake

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per Serving)

Serving:
1
Serving
,

Calories:
506
kcal
,

Carbohydrates:
43
g
,

Protein:
21
g
,

Fat:
29
g
,

Saturated Fat:
18
g
,

Cholesterol:
94
mg
,

Sodium:
428
mg
,

Fiber:
3
g
,

Sugar:
2
g

Recipe Source: adapted from Cook’s Country April/May 2009

Essential Kitchen Tools for Perfect Au Gratin Potatoes

To make the preparation of these cheesy au gratin potatoes even smoother and more enjoyable, consider these highly recommended kitchen essentials:

Unleash Your Inner Chef: Creative Variations & Customizations

This cheesy au gratin potato recipe is a masterpiece on its own, but it also serves as an excellent foundation for culinary experimentation. Feel free to adapt it to your taste preferences or to suit specific dietary needs. Here are some inspiring ideas to personalize your next batch:

• **Herbaceous Boost:** Infuse the cream and broth mixture with fresh sprigs of thyme, rosemary, or finely minced chives for an aromatic depth of flavor that complements the richness of the cheese.
• **Spicy Kick:** For those who love a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can be added to the cream mixture. Alternatively, sprinkle a touch of smoked paprika over the top for a subtle smoky warmth.
• **Hearty Additions:** Transform this side dish into a more substantial meal by layering in cooked, crumbled bacon, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken between the potato and cheese layers.
• **Explore New Cheeses:** While our recommended cheese blend is a proven winner, don’t hesitate to experiment! Gruyère, Fontina, or even a sharp aged white cheddar can offer delightful new flavor profiles and textures.
• **Garlic Lover’s Dream:** Before layering, rub the inside of your gratin dish with a cut clove of garlic, or add one or two cloves of minced garlic directly to the cream mixture for an irresistible savory aroma.
• **Crunchy Topping Alternatives:** For an extra layer of crunch and visual appeal, consider mixing a quarter cup of panko breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkling it over the final cheese layer before baking.
• **Vegetable Medley:** Sneak in thinly sliced onions, leeks, or even some spinach between the potato layers for added nutrients and flavor complexities.

Smart Prep for Busy Schedules: Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday feast or simply looking to simplify your weeknight cooking, this au gratin potato recipe is wonderfully accommodating for advance preparation. Save yourself time and stress without sacrificing flavor!

Make-Ahead Instructions:

1. **Full Assembly Ahead:** You can fully assemble the au gratin, including layering all the potatoes, cheese, and pouring the cream mixture, up to 24 hours before baking. Once assembled, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate.
2. **Baking from Cold:** When you’re ready to bake, remove the dish from the refrigerator approximately 30-60 minutes before placing it in the oven. This allows the dish to come closer to room temperature, promoting more even baking. Expect to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the total baking time. To prevent the cheese topping from browning too quickly, you may want to loosely cover the dish with foil for the first 45-60 minutes of baking, then remove it for the final 15-20 minutes to achieve that perfect golden crust.

Storage & Reheating:

• **Refrigeration:** Leftover au gratin potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• **Freezing:** While possible, freezing can sometimes alter the texture of the potatoes, making them a bit softer or slightly grainy upon reheating. If you choose to freeze, allow the baked dish to cool completely. Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• **Reheating:** For best results, individual portions can be reheated in the microwave until warm. For a larger dish, cover it with foil and reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through, typically 20-30 minutes for a full dish, or until bubbly and warm in the center.

The Perfect Accompaniment: What to Serve with Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

These cheesy au gratin potatoes are incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic side dish for almost any meal, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant holiday feasts. Here are some inspired pairings to help you create a memorable meal:

• **Classic Holiday Roasts:** An unparalleled partner for roasted turkey, succulent ham, tender prime rib, or a juicy beef roast.
• **Poultry Perfection:** Elevate your roasted chicken, duck, or a simple pan-seared chicken breast with the creamy richness of these potatoes.
• **Pork Pairings:** The decadent flavors of the au gratin beautifully complement the lean, savory notes of a pork tenderloin or roasted pork loin.
• **Steak & Chops:** Add a touch of elegance to your steak dinner, lamb chops, or even a hearty meatloaf with this comforting side.
• **Vegetarian Mains:** For a robust vegetarian meal, serve these potatoes alongside a mushroom Wellington, a hearty lentil loaf, or a vibrant roasted vegetable medley.
• **Fresh Green Counterparts:** Balance the richness of the potatoes with lighter, brighter sides such as steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, a crisp garden salad with a vinaigrette, or sautéed garlicky spinach.
• **Comfort Food Combo:** Pair with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying comfort meal on its own.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

What is the difference between au gratin and scalloped potatoes?

While often used interchangeably, traditionally, scalloped potatoes are baked in a creamy sauce (typically milk-based and without cheese), whereas au gratin potatoes always feature cheese and/or breadcrumbs, which create that characteristic browned, crispy crust on top.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Russet potatoes are highly recommended for their high starch content, which yields the creamiest sauce and prevents the dish from being watery. However, you can use other starchy potatoes like Yukon Golds, which will result in a slightly firmer texture but still be delicious. Waxy potatoes are generally not ideal as they don’t break down as much.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

For the classic smooth texture associated with au gratin, peeling the potatoes is recommended. If you prefer a more rustic dish and are using thinner-skinned potatoes like Yukon Golds, you can leave the skins on, ensuring they are thoroughly scrubbed clean.

How can I prevent my potatoes from turning brown after slicing?

Potatoes contain an enzyme that reacts with air, causing them to oxidize and turn brown. To prevent this, place your peeled and sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water immediately after slicing until you are ready to assemble the dish. Remember to drain and pat them thoroughly dry before layering!

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

While there are slow cooker versions of creamy potato dishes, the defining “gratin” — the crispy, browned top crust — is best achieved through oven baking. A slow cooker would yield very tender, creamy potatoes but would lack that signature golden, slightly crunchy layer.

How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?

The best way to test for doneness is to insert a thin knife or fork into the center of the dish. It should slide in with little to no resistance, indicating that the potatoes are tender throughout. The top should also be bubbly and golden brown.

A Holiday Staple You’ll Crave Year-Round

Whether you’re planning an elaborate Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, hosting a celebratory gathering, or simply seeking a comforting side dish to brighten a chilly evening, these Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are an undeniable winner. Their perfect harmony of tender, creamy potatoes and a rich, golden cheese crust creates an unforgettable culinary experience that’s sure to impress everyone at your table. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, this recipe is more than just food; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a dish destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen for years to come. Don’t relegate this masterpiece solely to special occasions—treat yourself and your loved ones to this incredible, foolproof dish anytime the craving strikes!