Au Gratin Potatoes & Easy Scalloped Potatoes
Recipe Overview
Overview
Au Gratin Potatoes, or scalloped potatoes, are a classic comfort food that brings warmth and richness to any meal. This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. The key to achieving that creamy texture lies in the cheese sauce, which is made by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding milk and cream until thickened. The addition of Gruyere cheese not only enhances the flavor but also creates a luscious, gooey texture that envelops the potatoes.
Slicing the potatoes thinly is crucial for even cooking, and using a food processor can make this task quick and safe. Once the potatoes are coated in the cheese sauce, they are layered in a buttered casserole dish, topped with more cheese, and baked until golden and bubbly. The result is a dish that is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying.
This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners, as it pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins, from roast turkey to prime rib. The creamy, cheesy goodness is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase the humble potato in a deliciously indulgent way. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, Au Gratin Potatoes are bound to become a favorite in your household.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Tip: Butter the casserole dish generously to prevent sticking.
Butter a three quart or 9 by 13 inch casserole dish.
Grate two cups of gruyere cheese on the large holes of a box grater.
Melt four tablespoons of unsalted butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add a quarter cup of flour and whisk together for two minutes until golden.
Gradually pour in milk followed by heavy whipping cream while whisking.
Add salt, freshly ground black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Whisk until the sauce has thickened, then remove from heat.
Stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted and incorporated.
Tip: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning before combining with potatoes.
Cover the sauce and set it aside to keep warm.
Peel or scrub the potatoes, then thinly slice them.
Use a food processor or mandolin to slice potatoes to 1/8 inch thickness.
Tip: Keeping potatoes thinly sliced ensures even baking.
Add all the sliced potatoes to the cream sauce and stir to coat evenly.
Transfer the coated potatoes into the buttered casserole dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining one cup of shredded cheese on top.
Tip: Adding cheese on top creates a golden cheesy crust.
Cover the dish tightly with foil.
Tip: Covering with foil promotes even cooking.
Bake in the center of the preheated oven for 60 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 30 minutes.
Check if the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Tip: Broil for a couple of minutes at the end for a golden brown crust.
Broil for one to two minutes if desired for a golden crust.
Let the dish rest out of the oven for 15 minutes before serving.
Tip: Garnish with chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Scoop out the potatoes using a serving fork.
Loosen the edges of the dish to help serve easily.
Tip: Cutting potatoes thin reduces baking time.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Almond Milk
Ingredient: Gluten
→ Substitution: Gluten-Free Flour Blend
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Au Gratin Potatoes are also known as scalloped potatoes, featuring layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy cheese sauce.
- •Using a food processor can significantly speed up the slicing of potatoes, ensuring uniform thickness for even cooking.
- •Gruyere cheese adds a sophisticated flavor to the dish, but can be substituted with cheddar if needed.
- •Covering the casserole with foil during baking promotes even cooking and prevents the top from browning too quickly.
