• Mittie Feest
• June 5, 2023

Cheesy Perfection: Simple Au Gratin Potatoes for Every Occasion

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our recipe for the best ever simple au gratin potatoes. This classic dish features layers of thinly
sliced potatoes baked to perfection in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or craving a hearty side dish,
our step-by-step guide will help you achieve au gratin potato excellence.

Ingredients:

To create the best ever simple au gratin potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of whole milk
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute until well combined.
• Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
• Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
• Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the greased baking dish, slightly overlapping each other. Pour a generous amount of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, ensuring they are fully covered.
• Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese sauce on top.

• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
• Once cooked, remove the au gratin potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Serve the best ever simple au gratin potatoes as a side dish with your favorite protein or as a main course accompanied by a crisp salad.

Expert Tips:

• Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to ensure thin, uniform slices of potatoes for even cooking.
• Soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water for 10 minutes and then patting them dry with a paper towel helps remove excess starch and
  ensures a creamier texture.
• For extra depth of flavor, add caramelized onions or sautéed garlic to the cheese sauce.
• Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Fontina to customize the dish to your
  liking.

Conclusion:

Congratulations! You’ve learned how to make the best ever simple au gratin potatoes. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and
comforting flavors, this dish is perfect for satisfying your cravings or impressing guests. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in
the kitchen, our step-by-step guide and expert tips will help you create an irresistible au gratin potato masterpiece. So, gather your
ingredients, preheat that oven, and prepare to savor the ultimate potato gratification. Enjoy!

FAQ

Q: What are au gratin potatoes?
A: Au gratin potatoes are a classic dish consisting of thinly sliced potatoes layered with a creamy sauce and cheese, then baked until
golden and bubbly. The name “au gratin” refers to the crispy golden crust that forms on top of the dish during baking.

Q: Are au gratin potatoes and scalloped potatoes the same thing?
A: While both dishes involve layered potatoes and a creamy sauce, there is a slight difference between au gratin potatoes and scalloped
potatoes. Au gratin potatoes typically include cheese in the sauce or as a topping, which gives them a cheesy crust, while scalloped
potatoes are traditionally made without cheese.

Q: Can I use different types of potatoes for au gratin potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use different types of potatoes for au gratin potatoes. Russet potatoes are commonly used due to their starchy texture,
but you can also use Yukon Gold or even red potatoes. The key is to slice them thinly and evenly for consistent cooking.

Q: How can I achieve a creamy sauce for au gratin potatoes?
A: To achieve a creamy sauce, you’ll need to combine ingredients such as butter, flour, milk, and cheese. The butter and flour create a
roux, which thickens the sauce, while the milk adds creaminess. Cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, is often added for extra flavor
and richness.

Q: Can I make au gratin potatoes in advance?
A: Yes, you can make au gratin potatoes in advance. Prepare the dish as instructed, but instead of baking, cover it tightly with foil and
refrigerate. When ready to serve, remove the foil and bake according to the recipe, adding a few extra minutes if needed. This make-
ahead option is convenient for gatherings and holidays.

Q: How do I achieve a crispy and golden crust on top of my au gratin potatoes?
A: To achieve a crispy and golden crust, it’s important to bake the au gratin potatoes uncovered during the final stage of cooking. This
allows the top layer to brown and become crispy while the potatoes underneath become tender. If desired, you can also broil the dish for
a few minutes at the end for an extra crispy finish.

Q: Can I customize my au gratin potatoes with additional ingredients?
A: Absolutely! While au gratin potatoes are delicious on their own, you can customize them by adding other ingredients. Popular
additions include caramelized onions, garlic, cooked bacon, or even vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. These additions can enhance
the flavor and add extra layers of taste to the dish.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese in my au gratin potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use different types of cheese in your au gratin potatoes. Cheddar cheese is commonly used for its sharp and rich flavor,
but you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or even a combination of different cheeses to suit your preferences.

Q: What can I serve with au gratin potatoes?
A: Au gratin potatoes make a versatile side dish that pairs well with various proteins such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish.
They also complement a range of vegetables, salads, or can be enjoyed on their own as a comforting main course.

Q: Can I freeze leftover au potatoes?
A: While it’s possible to freeze leftover au potatoes, it’s worth noting that freezing may alter the texture of the dish. The potatoes
can become slightly grainy or watery upon thawing and reheating. If you do freeze them, ensure they are stored in an airtight container
and consume within a few weeks for the best results.

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