The Best Homemade Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade Potatoes Au Gratin recipe is a comforting classic that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.
- Creamy and cheesy: Layers of tender potatoes smothered in a rich, velvety sauce with plenty of melted cheese.
- Simple ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples, so you can whip it up without a fuss.
- Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners, guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.
Recipe
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of homemade Potatoes Au Gratin, a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines thinly sliced potatoes with a rich, flavorful sauce baked to golden perfection. With layers of tender potatoes, cream, and melted cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (about 4 large) russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère or cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, for greasing
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Heat over medium heat until warm but not boiling. Remove from heat.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes and sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
- Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes:
- For a crispier top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and milk mixture if desired.
Equipment:
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Medium saucepan
- Aluminum foil
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Cuisine:
French
Serving:
Serves 6-8
Nutrition
This classic potatoes au gratin recipe offers a rich and creamy dish perfect for any occasion. Below is the nutritional information per serving.
| Nutrition | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
| Sodium | 450mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 4g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade potatoes au gratin with juicy roasted chicken or a tender steak because the creamy dish balances the richness of the meat perfectly. Adding some roasted asparagus or a crisp green salad brings a fresh, light contrast to the meal. It’s a combination that always makes my dinner feel complete and satisfying.
Meat Pairings
When you’re serving up a creamy, cheesy dish like potatoes au gratin, you’ll want a protein that balances its richness without stealing the spotlight. I love pairing it with roasted chicken—its mild flavor lets the potatoes shine. A juicy steak works too, especially if you’re craving something hearty. For a lighter option, try seared salmon; its buttery texture complements the dish perfectly. If you’re feeling fancy, herb-crusted lamb adds a touch of elegance. Just remember, the meat should enhance, not overpower. Trust me, these combos make every bite feel like a cozy, satisfying meal.
Vegetable Sides
Although potatoes au gratin already bring a comforting, cheesy vibe to the table, adding a fresh vegetable side can brighten up the meal and balance its richness. I love pairing them with roasted asparagus—it’s crisp, slightly charred, and adds a nice contrast. Steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon or a simple arugula salad with a tangy vinaigrette also work wonders. If you’re feeling fancy, try honey-glazed carrots or sautéed Brussels sprouts with bacon. These sides cut through the creaminess and keep things light. Trust me, your plate will look (and taste) way more exciting with a pop of green!
