Baked Potatoes Au Gratin

Baked Potatoes Au Gratin is a classic comfort food that pairs tender sliced potatoes with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all baked to a golden, bubbly perfection. Perfect as a side for roasted meats, holiday dinners, or family meals, this dish is indulgent yet surprisingly easy to make.

 

🧾 Ingredients

 

4–5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

 

2 tbsp butter

 

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

 

1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)

 

1 cup heavy cream

 

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

 

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

 

1 tsp garlic powder or 2 cloves minced garlic

 

½ tsp salt

 

¼ tsp black pepper

 

½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)

 

Fresh parsley for garnish

 

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven

 

Preheat oven to 375°F / 190°C.

 

Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

 

2️⃣ Prepare the Cheese Sauce

 

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

 

Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking 1–2 minutes.

 

Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth.

 

Add cheddar, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper.

 

Cook until cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly.

 

3️⃣ Layer the Potatoes

 

Arrange a layer of potato slices in the baking dish.

 

Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.

 

Repeat layers until all potatoes and sauce are used.

 

Sprinkle paprika on top for a golden finish.

 

4️⃣ Bake

 

Cover with foil and bake 35–40 minutes.

 

Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.

 

Let rest 5 minutes before serving to set layers.

 

🌟 Tips for Perfect Potatoes Au Gratin

 

Slice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.

 

Use a mandoline for consistent thin slices.

 

Mix cheeses for richer flavor (Gruyère or Fontina work well).

 

Add cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or herbs for extra depth.

 

🥗 Serving Ideas

 

Serve alongside roasted chicken, beef, or ham

 

Pair with a crisp green salad for balance

 

Add sautéed garlic or mushrooms for extra flavor