Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin: Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

The aroma of melted cheese wafting through the air, paired with the rich creaminess of Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin, makes my taste buds dance with anticipation. This dish is a warm hug on a plate, with layers of tender potatoes smothered in an irresistible cheese sauce that promises to make you swoon.

Every family gathering was incomplete without this cheesy delight gracing the table. It’s the comfort food that brings everyone together, whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a festive holiday feast. The moment you dig in, you’ll be transported to a place where everything feels just right.

I still remember the first time I made this dish on my own; my friends’ eyes widened in delight when they took their first bites.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Potatoes: Choose starchy varieties like Russets for that perfect creamy texture.

• Heavy Cream: This is key for achieving that rich and velvety sauce we all crave.

• Shredded Cheese: A mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère gives the best flavor combination.

• Butter: Use unsalted butter for cooking; it allows better control over saltiness.

• Garlic Powder: This adds depth; fresh garlic works too but requires more chopping.

• Salt and Pepper: These staples enhance flavors; use them generously but taste as you go!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin

Preheat and Prepare Your Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

Slice Potatoes Thinly: Using a sharp knife or mandolin, slice the potatoes into thin rounds. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking.

Create the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbling. Whisk in heavy cream and garlic powder until smooth and slightly thickened.

Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish: Layer half of your sliced potatoes in the prepared dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over them and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Add Final Layers of Potatoes and Sauce: Repeat with remaining potatoes and cheese sauce. Top generously with shredded cheese for that golden crust!

Bake Until Golden Brown: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with laughter, memories, and flavors that linger long after the plates are cleared. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the potatoes until fork-tender, then prepare the creamy cheese sauce while they cool. Layer the potatoes in a baking dish, smother them in sauce, and bake until golden and bubbly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out regular cheese for smoked gouda or add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme can elevate the taste profile too!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly.

Sharing this cheesy delight always reminds me of my dad’s endless enthusiasm for cooking. He’d relish every moment stirring that creamy sauce, declaring it “the secret to happiness.”

FAQ

Can I use different cheeses for Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin?

Absolutely! Mixing cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack works wonders.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using low-fat milk or yogurt instead of heavy cream without sacrificing too much creaminess.

What main dishes pair well with Au Gratin?

This cheesy side complements roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a fresh salad beautifully.

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📖 Recipe Card

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Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender potatoes with a luscious, cheesy sauce, creating a dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With its golden, bubbly crust and savory flavors, this recipe promises to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Make it as a side or enjoy it as a comforting main course.

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Ingredients

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• 4 medium Russet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), thinly sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. Thinly slice the potatoes using a knife or mandolin.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; whisk in heavy cream and garlic powder until smooth and slightly thickened.
4. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared dish; pour half of the cheese sauce over them, seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce, topping with additional shredded cheese.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 70mg