Description
A classic and comforting side dish, these Potatoes au Gratin are made with thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce until golden and bubbling. Perfect for holiday dinners or any cozy meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg / 3 lb potatoes (starchy like Russet or Sebago), peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 60g / 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups (500ml) milk, preferably whole milk
- 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheese (Gruyère or cheddar recommended), divided
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C/350°F (fan-forced).
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, cook until soft.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Add salt and pepper. Stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish.
- Pour over half the cheese sauce. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.
- Top with remaining shredded cheese and grated parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour or until potatoes are tender.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Use starchy potatoes like Russet for best results.
- Gruyère cheese adds a gourmet touch, but cheddar works well too.
- Can be made ahead and reheated – perfect for holiday prep.
- Ensure the potatoes are sliced uniformly for even cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
