Description
This Au Gratin Potatoes recipe delivers the creamiest, cheesiest comfort food perfect for any occasion. Tender russet potatoes are layered and baked in a rich cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheeses, heavy cream, and butter, resulting in a golden, bubbly crust and silky smooth texture that’s irresistible.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Peel your potatoes and slice them thinly and evenly, about 1/8-inch thick. Consistent slices ensure even cooking and a perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for about 1-2 minutes. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Once the sauce thickens, stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheeses, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme if using, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Layer the Dish: Arrange a layer of potato slices in the baking dish. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat the layering process with remaining potatoes and sauce, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top to form a golden crust.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender throughout and the top is golden brown and bubbling. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the sauce set.
Notes
- Use starchy potatoes like russet or Yukon Gold for tender texture.
- Slice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.
- Don’t skip making the roux; it prevents watery sauce.
- Let the dish rest after baking to thicken the sauce for easier serving.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Au Gratin Potatoes, cheesy potatoes, comfort food, baked potatoes, creamy potatoes, holiday side dish