Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe | Classic Cheesy Potato Bake

Looking for a crowd-pleasing, ultra-comforting side dish? This au gratin potatoes recipe is your go-to! Picture tender potato slices baked in a silky, cheesy sauce—crispy on top, creamy inside, and loaded with rich flavor. Perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or anytime you need something extra special. This post is crafted for SEO and reader engagement, highlighting key words naturally.

✨ Why You’ll Love These Au Gratin Potatoes

• Golden, cheesy crust with a creamy, tender center

• Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps

• Ideal for make-ahead side dish

• Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or special occasions

• Total comfort food that pairs with any main

📋 Ingredients for the Best Au Gratin Potatoes

• 2 lbs (900g) russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

• 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half)

• 1 cup whole milk

• 2 cups shredded cheese (Gruyère, cheddar, or a blend)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh (optional)

• Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for depth)

• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

👩‍🍳 How to Make Au Gratin Potatoes – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep and Slice

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.

• Peel and thinly slice potatoes (about 1/8 inch thick) for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

• In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

• Add garlic and stir until fragrant (about 1 minute).

• Pour in cream and milk, then heat till just below boiling.

• Stir in 1 1/2 cups cheese, salt, pepper, thyme, and nutmeg. Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes

• Arrange half the potato slices in the prepared dish, overlapping slightly.

• Pour half the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes.

• Layer the remaining potatoes on top, then cover with the rest of the sauce.

• Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheese over the surface.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

• Cover loosely with foil and bake for 35 minutes.

• Remove foil and bake an additional 25–30 minutes, until golden, bubbling, and potatoes are tender.

• Rest for 10 minutes before serving to set the layers.

Pro Tip: For the crispiest cheese topping, broil for the last 2–3 minutes—watch closely!

🥣 Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside roast chicken, steak, baked ham, or holiday turkeys.

• Perfect year-round—pairs with a green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

• Leftovers reheat well and make for a delicious next-day lunch.

📝 Recipe Variations

• Cheesy bacon gratin: Add crisp bacon between the layers.

• Herb lovers: Mix in rosemary, thyme, or chives for extra flavor.

• Gluten-free: No flour, so this recipe is naturally gluten-free!

• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half and reduced-fat cheese.

❄️ Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.

• Assemble the dish a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate—bake just before serving.

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💬 Did You Make These Au Gratin Potatoes?

Share your au gratin potatoes creations in the comments! Let us know your favorite cheeses or add-ins for this classic dish. Tag your kitchen masterpieces with #PotatoGratinGoodness and inspire others with golden, cheesy comfort food.