Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is just what you need! This recipe has been a cherished family favorite of mine for years. Each layer of creamy, cheesy potatoes infused with the rich essence of roasted garlic is like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, this delightful dish never fails to impress.

What makes this recipe truly special is not just its irresistible flavor, but also how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up without breaking a sweat, and it’s sure to become the star of your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously creamy: The combination of heavy cream and melted cheese creates a rich texture that everyone will love.
• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create this impressive dish.
• Perfect for gatherings: This generous recipe serves 8, making it ideal for family dinners or potlucks.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to serve!
• Versatile side dish: Pairs beautifully with roasted meats, salads, or as a standalone vegetarian delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create magic in your kitchen. You probably have most of these on hand already!

For the Potatoes

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

For the Creamy Mixture

• 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
• 2 cups (about 220g) shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh chives

Variations

This Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.

• Add some greens: Toss in spinach or kale between potato layers for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: Incorporate red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a little heat.
• Cheese swap: Try using different cheeses like cheddar or feta for unique flavors.
• Herb infusion: Mix in other herbs like rosemary or oregano for an aromatic twist.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving that golden-brown crust we all love in au gratin dishes!

Step 2: Roast the Garlic

Begin by roasting the garlic. Cut the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Place it on aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Wrap it up tightly and roast in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until soft and golden. Roasting brings out such wonderful sweetness in garlic!

Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While the garlic roasts away, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. This step ensures easy cleanup later and helps prevent sticking.

Step 4: Slice Those Potatoes

Now it’s time to peel and thinly slice your starchy potatoes. I recommend using a mandoline slicer for perfectly even slices; this helps them cook uniformly.

Step 5: Layer the Potatoes

Take those lovely potato slices and arrange them upright in layers within your greased baking dish. It’s okay if they’re not perfect—this rustic look adds charm!

Step 6: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, butter, half of the grated parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, along with salt and pepper. Heat until everything is well mixed and melted—just don’t let it boil! This mixture will provide that luscious creaminess we crave.

Step 7: Add Roasted Garlic

Once your garlic is perfectly roasted, squeeze out those delicious cloves from their skins and mash them into a paste. Stir this roasted garlic paste into your cream mixture until well combined. The aroma is heavenly!

Step 8: Pour Over Potatoes

Carefully pour that creamy mixture over your layered potatoes in the baking dish. Make sure every slice gets coated nicely! Then cover tightly with kitchen foil—this helps steam the potatoes while they bake.

Step 9: Bake Covered

Bake those beauties in your preheated oven for about 40 minutes. This initial covered baking allows the potatoes to become tender.

Step 10: Cheese It Up!

After 40 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese along with the remaining grated parmesan on top. It’s time to add that cheesy goodness!

Step 11: Bake Uncovered

Return your dish back into the oven uncovered for another 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it—you want bubbly cheese that’s golden brown while ensuring those potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 12: Cool Before Serving

Once done baking, take your glorious potato au gratin out of the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This short wait lets everything settle nicely.

Step 13: Garnish & Enjoy!

Top with fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor before serving! Now dig in and savor every creamy bite of these Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Making the perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is all about technique and a little love in the kitchen. Here are some tips to elevate your dish!

• Use starchy potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds will give you that creamy texture you crave. They break down beautifully during cooking, creating a luscious dish that’s hard to resist.

• Layer strategically: When layering your potatoes, aim for an even distribution throughout the dish. This gives every bite a consistent flavor and ensures that every slice has a delightful mix of creaminess and cheese.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing your finished gratin to rest for a few minutes before serving helps it set up nicely. This way, when you cut into it, you’ll get those beautiful layers instead of a soupy mess!

• Experiment with cheeses: While Gruyère and parmesan are classic choices, feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or fontina for unique flavors. Each cheese brings its own richness and depth to the dish.

• Add herbs for freshness: Along with thyme, consider adding fresh rosemary or parsley as a final touch. These herbs brighten up the rich flavors and add an aromatic element that enhances the overall experience.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

This irresistible dish deserves a beautiful presentation! Here are some ideas on how to serve it so it shines at your dining table.

Garnishes

• Fresh chives: Chopped chives add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes.
• Parsley sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh parsley can brighten up the dish visually and add an earthy aroma.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving can enhance the flavors and add richness.

Side Dishes

• Green salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the gratin.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus complement the dish beautifully while providing extra nutrients.
• Grilled chicken or fish: Lightly seasoned grilled chicken or fish adds protein without overwhelming the rich flavors of the potatoes.
• Sautéed spinach: The slight bitterness of sautéed spinach offers a wonderful contrast to the creamy gratin, making for a well-rounded meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin will be not only delicious but also a stunning centerpiece at any gathering! Enjoy each cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance and enjoy the comforting flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely to avoid freezer burn.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• For a crispy topping, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes after reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin without cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream for a lighter version while still enjoying rich flavors.

How do I store Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

To store leftovers, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

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

Absolutely! While Gruyère and mozzarella work beautifully, feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.

Is there a way to make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin healthier?

You can reduce calories by using low-fat milk instead of whole milk and opting for less cheese while still maintaining delicious flavor!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin as much as I do! It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it and make it your own. Happy cooking!

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