Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is where it’s at! This dish takes ordinary potatoes and transforms them into something truly special. With layers of thinly sliced spuds, infused with the rich flavor of roasted garlic and enveloped in creamy cheese, it’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to treat yourself on a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

What makes this dish even better is its versatility; it’s perfect for any occasion! From cozy dinners in to festive gatherings, Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin brings warmth and joy to your table. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll find this dish comes together quickly.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! It’s an instant crowd-pleaser that kids and adults will both enjoy.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready—great for entertaining!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted garlic and creamy cheese creates a comforting dish that warms the soul.
• Perfect for Any Season: Whether it’s autumn or winter, this hearty side dish fits beautifully into any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to make these Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin. Each one plays a key role in bringing out the rich flavors that make this dish so special.

For the Potatoes

• 8-9 medium starchy potatoes (about 1.2kg), thinly sliced
• 1 head garlic, cut the top off

For the Cream Sauce

• 1 cup (250 ml) heavy cream / double cream
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) whole milk
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the baking dish
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/3 tsp dried thyme)
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 cup (40g) grated parmesan cheese, divided

For the Topping

• 2 cups (about 220g) shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives, for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is how flexible it is! You can easily customize this recipe based on what you have on hand or what flavors you love.

• Add Some Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale between the layers for added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a little heat that complements the creamy goodness.
• Cheese Swap: Try different cheeses such as cheddar or fontina for a unique twist on flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley to give it your personal touch.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roasting garlic enhances its sweetness and mellows its sharpness. Cut the top off a head of garlic to expose the cloves. Place it on aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, then wrap it up. Roast in the oven for about 30 minutes until soft and golden. Let it cool before handling.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While your garlic roasts away, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. This prevents sticking and ensures your potatoes come out perfectly golden.

Step 3: Slice Those Potatoes

Peel and thinly slice your potatoes using a mandoline slicer if you have one—this helps achieve uniform slices that cook evenly. Arrange them upright in layers within your greased dish for an inviting presentation.

Step 4: Make The Cream Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, whole milk, butter, half of the grated parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, plus salt and pepper. Heat gently until everything is melted and combined; just be careful not to let it boil!

Step 5: Add That Amazing Garlic Flavor

Once your garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze out those lovely cloves from their skins into a bowl and mash them into a paste. Stir this delicious roasted garlic paste into your cream mixture until well blended—oh my goodness!

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Pour that creamy mixture over your layered potatoes in the baking dish, making sure they are all evenly coated. Cover tightly with kitchen foil; this helps steam them during baking.

Step 7: Bake Away!

Bake those gorgeous potatoes in your preheated oven for about 40 minutes. When time’s up, remove the foil and sprinkle on shredded Gruyère or mozzarella along with the remaining parmesan cheese.

Step 8: Finish Baking

Pop everything back in without covering it again for another 30 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown! You’ll know it’s done when fork-tender potatoes peek out from under that cheesy crust.

Step 9: Let It Rest & Serve

Once out of the oven, allow your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin to cool for just a few minutes—it’ll be hard not to dive right in! Garnish with fresh chives before serving up warm plates of comfort food bliss.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Creating the perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is all about those little details that elevate the dish from good to unforgettable! Here are some handy tips to help you achieve cheesy, creamy perfection:

• Use starchy potatoes: Opting for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds ensures a creamier texture and helps the layers meld beautifully together.
• Layer evenly: When stacking your potato slices, make sure they’re arranged evenly. This will ensure even cooking and that every bite has the perfect balance of flavors.
• Don’t skip the nutmeg: Just a pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the creamy sauce, enhancing the overall flavor without being overpowering.
• Let it rest before serving: Allow your dish to sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This resting time helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
• Experiment with cheeses: While Gruyère is delicious, feel free to mix in other melting cheeses such as Fontina or Monterey Jack for a fun twist on flavor!

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Presenting your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin beautifully can make all the difference at your dinner table. Here are some great ideas to make this comfort dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley on top not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile with a hint of freshness.
• Extra cheese: For the cheese lovers, consider adding a light grating of Parmesan or another cheese right before serving for an indulgent touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Butter Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic butter offer a vibrant contrast to the creamy potatoes while keeping your meal light and refreshing.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized sprouts bring a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that complements the richness of the potatoes.
• Crispy Chicken Thighs: Juicy, seasoned chicken thighs add protein to your meal and provide a savory element that pairs wonderfully with cheesy sides.
• Simple Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess of the gratin, providing a balance that makes every bite enjoyable.

Enjoy creating and sharing this delicious dish with friends and family; it’s sure to become a cherished favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious comfort food without the last-minute rush. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven until heated through.

Freezing

• Cool the potatoes au gratin completely before freezing.
• Wrap in plastic wrap and then cover with aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
• For crispy cheese, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.

FAQs

If you have questions about making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin, this section is here to help!

Can I use other types of cheese in Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Absolutely! While Gruyère and mozzarella are great choices, you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they melt well!

How long will Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin without heavy cream?

Yes! For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. Just keep in mind that it may alter the richness slightly.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal as they provide a creamy texture when baked. Avoid waxy potatoes as they may not yield the same results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this comforting dish of Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor that brings everyone together at your table. Enjoy every cheesy bite and feel free to share your creations with loved ones. Happy cooking!