There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish of Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes, with its golden, bubbling cheese crust and tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes. Each bite is a perfect harmony of rich, velvety sauce and a satisfyingly crisp top, making it a standout side or even a cozy main. Ready in just under two hours, this recipe is worth every minute for the decadent, melt-in-your-mouth experience it delivers.
Infused with savory, cheesy goodness and a hint of garlic, this American classic is a crowd-pleaser that feels both indulgent and wholesome. The creamy texture, paired with the slight crunch of the gratin topping, creates a delightful contrast that’s impossible to resist. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it’s a dish that promises to warm hearts and satisfy cravings.
What You’ll Need for Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes
- 3 Tablespoons butter (unsalted recommended for better control of saltiness)
- 3 Tablespoons flour (all-purpose works best)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or substitute with fresh minced garlic for a bolder flavor)
- 2 cups milk (whole milk for creaminess, but 2% works too)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (feel free to mix in Gruyère or Monterey Jack for variety)
- 4 russet potatoes, thinly sliced (peeled or unpeeled, depending on preference)
- ½ onion, finely diced (yellow or white onion works well)
- Salt and pepper, to taste (freshly ground pepper recommended)
How to Make Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray an 8 x 11-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour, salt, and garlic powder, and whisk constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Add the milk: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate the cheese: Add the shredded cheddar cheese all at once, stirring until fully melted and smooth, about 30-60 seconds. Remove from heat.
- Layer the potatoes: Place half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared casserole dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the diced onions evenly over the potatoes, then pour half of the cheese sauce on top.
- Repeat the layers: Add the remaining potatoes, season again with salt and pepper, and top with the rest of the cheese sauce, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 80-90 minutes. For a golden top, remove the foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Check for doneness: The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the top should be bubbly and lightly browned. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
These creamy au gratin potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham for a comforting meal. For a lighter option, pair them with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
Make It Ahead: Storage and Reheating Tips
You can prepare this dish a day in advance—just assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. To reheat leftovers, place them in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep the sauce creamy.
Switch It Up: Recipe Variations
Customize this recipe to suit your taste! Try using Gruyère or Parmesan instead of cheddar for a more sophisticated flavor. Add a layer of cooked bacon or ham between the potatoes for a heartier dish. For a veggie twist, mix in sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers.
Time-Saving Hacks
To cut down on prep time, use a mandoline slicer to quickly and evenly slice the potatoes. You can also prepare the cheese sauce while the oven preheats to streamline the process. If you’re in a rush, reduce the baking time by parboiling the potato slices for 5 minutes before assembling the dish.
Common Questions Answered
Can I use a different type of potato? Yes! Yukon Gold potatoes work well and add a buttery flavor. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely—swap the flour for a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the sauce thickens properly before assembling.
Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes
Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons butter
- 3 Tablespoons flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 russet potatoes, sliced
- ½ onion, diced
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Spray an 8 x 11 inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a medium-size saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Mix in the flour, salt, and garlic powder and stir constantly with a whisk for one minute.
- Stir in milk.
- Cook until mixture has thickened.
- Stir in cheese all at once, and continue stirring until melted, about 30 to 60 seconds.
- Layer 1/2 of the potatoes into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish and season with salt and pepper.
- Top with the diced onions, then pour half of the cheese mixture on top of the onions.
- Layer the rest of the potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and top with the remaining cheese sauce.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 80-90 minutes (I usually remove the foil for the last 15 minutes so that the top can brown just a little bit).