There’s something about creamy, cheesy dishes that just feels like home, right? My dad’s creamy cheesy au gratin potatoes are a staple at every family gathering, and honestly, they steal the show every time! I remember one Thanksgiving when we laid out a buffet of delicious food, but everyone kept coming back for seconds (and thirds) of those potatoes. The rich, velvety cream and the gooey melted cheese create a comfort that wraps around you like a warm hug. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a family tradition that brings us together, sparking laughter and sharing stories around the table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a family favorite!
Ingredients for Dads Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
- 5 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter for greasing
How to Prepare Dads Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is super important because you want those potatoes to cook evenly and get that lovely golden crust on top. While that’s heating up, grab your baking dish and grease it generously with butter. This will help prevent sticking and adds a little extra flavor, too. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Layering the Ingredients
Now, let’s get to the fun part! Take your peeled and thinly sliced russet potatoes and start layering them in the greased baking dish. In a large bowl, mix together the heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until it’s well combined. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish, then pour half of that creamy mixture over them. Sprinkle half of your cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheeses. It’s all about those beautiful layers!
Baking the Dish
Once everything is layered, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top for that extra cheesy goodness. Pop the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 45-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving so the flavors can meld together beautifully. Just imagine that creamy, cheesy goodness waiting for you!
Tips for Success with Dads Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
To make sure your potatoes turn out perfectly creamy and cheesy, here are a few tips that I swear by! First, using a mandoline for slicing your potatoes will give you those even, thin slices that cook uniformly—no one likes a mushy potato! If you want to take it up a notch, feel free to add some crispy cooked bacon between the layers for an extra punch of flavor. And don’t skimp on the cheese; the more, the merrier! Finally, let the dish sit for those 10 minutes after baking—it really helps everything come together beautifully!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider this an estimate. Each serving of dad’s creamy cheesy au gratin potatoes contains approximately 450 calories, 30g of fat, 10g of protein, and 35g of carbohydrates. It also has 2g of sugar and 700mg of sodium. Enjoy this indulgent dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying dad’s creamy cheesy au gratin potatoes, the possibilities are endless! I love serving them alongside some juicy grilled chicken or a perfectly cooked steak for a hearty meal. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots add a lovely crunch and balance out the creaminess of the dish. You could even pair it with a fresh green salad for a lighter touch. Trust me, these potatoes will shine at any table!
FAQ About Dads Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! While I love the classic combo of cheddar and mozzarella, you can mix and match with your favorites. Gouda, Gruyère, or even some blue cheese can add a unique twist!
How can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prep everything a day in advance. Just layer the potatoes and cream mixture, cover it tightly, and pop it in the fridge. Bake it right before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience!
Can I add vegetables? Yes! Feel free to sneak in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even broccoli between the layers for added flavor and nutrients. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
What if I don’t have heavy cream? You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the dish might not be as rich and creamy. You can also try a blend of milk and cream for a good compromise!
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven to bring back that lovely texture!
Why You’ll Love Dads Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
- Incredibly creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Rich, cheesy goodness from a perfect blend of cheeses
- Simple and straightforward preparation—anyone can do it!
- Perfect for gathering around the table with family and friends
- Customizable with your favorite ingredients, like bacon or veggies
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes or Creamy Chicken Pasta.
Print
Dads Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes: 5 Tips for Success
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy potato dish topped with cheese.
Ingredients
- 5 large russet potatoes
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes.
- In a large bowl, mix heavy cream, garlic, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Layer half of the potatoes in the baking dish.
- Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheeses.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Notes
- Let dish rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Use a mandoline for even potato slices.
- Feel free to add cooked bacon for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: creamy cheesy au gratin potatoes, cheesy potatoes, potato gratin, dad's recipe
