Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food that warms your heart and fills your home with delicious aromas, then look no further! Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is a dish that I simply adore. It features layers of tender potatoes, roasted garlic, and a luscious creamy cheese sauce that brings everything together in a wonderful harmony. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for family or entertaining friends, this dish will surely impress everyone at the table.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines simplicity with indulgence. It’s not just for special occasions; it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty but comforting. Plus, who can resist the golden, bubbling cheese topping?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish without any hassle.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! This recipe is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of roasted garlic and creamy cheese creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! You’ll find that everything you need is easy to find and adds so much flavor to this dish.

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

Variations

One of the best things about Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is its flexibility! You can easily make it your own with some fun variations.

• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for an added layer of flavor and nutrients.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or fontina to suit your taste preferences.
• Make it spicy: For a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add jalapeños into the creamy mixture.
• Herb infusion: Mix in other herbs like rosemary or oregano to give it an extra flavor boost.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

First things first—let’s get that garlic roasting! Cutting off the top exposes the cloves so they can caramelize beautifully. Wrapping them in foil helps trap the heat and ensures they roast evenly. The result will be sweet, soft cloves that add depth to your creamy sauce.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While your garlic roasts, it’s time to prep your baking dish. Greasing it ensures that your potatoes won’t stick, making serving easier later on. A well-prepped dish sets you up for success!

Step 3: Slice Those Potatoes

Now it’s time to slice those lovely potatoes! Using a mandoline slicer gives you even slices which help them cook uniformly. This step is crucial because uneven slices can lead to some parts being overcooked while others remain underdone.

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes

Take those potato slices and start layering them upright in your dish. This not only looks beautiful but allows every bite to soak up that creamy goodness. Layering makes sure each potato gets its fair share of flavor!

Step 5: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a saucepan, combine your heavy cream, milk, butter, half of the parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper over medium heat. Heating gently allows all those delicious flavors to meld together without boiling—trust me; it’ll be worth it!

Step 6: Incorporate Roasted Garlic

Once your garlic has roasted and cooled slightly, squeeze out those sweet cloves and mash them into a paste. Stirring this into your creamy mixture ensures every bite bursts with rich garlic flavor—a true highlight of this recipe!

Step 7: Combine Everything Together

Pour that heavenly creamy mixture over your neatly layered potatoes in the baking dish. Covering it tightly with foil traps moisture as it bakes so don’t skip this step—it’s key for soft potatoes!

Step 8: Bake!

Pop your covered dish into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes. The goal here is tender potatoes before we uncover them to add that glorious cheesy topping.

Step 9: Add Cheese Topping

After removing the foil, sprinkle on your shredded Gruyère or mozzarella along with remaining parmesan cheese. This is where magic happens—the cheese melts into gooey perfection!

Step 10: Final Bake

Return your dish back into the oven uncovered for another 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it so you catch that perfect moment when it’s ready!

Step 11: Cool & Garnish

Once baked, let your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin cool for just a few moments before serving—you don’t want anyone burning their tongue on hot cheese! Finish by garnishing with fresh chives for color and freshness.

Step 12: Serve & Enjoy!

Now comes the best part—digging in! Serve this comforting side dish alongside your favorite protein or enjoy it as a standalone treat. Either way, I promise you’ll love every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin can be a delightful experience, especially when you follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use starchy potatoes: Varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal as they yield a creamy texture once baked. They absorb the flavors beautifully and become tender while maintaining their structure.
• Don’t rush the roasting of garlic: Allowing the garlic to roast until it’s golden and soft enhances its sweetness and depth of flavor. This will elevate the overall taste of your gratin, making it rich and aromatic.
• Layer the potatoes evenly: Arrange your potato slices uniformly in the baking dish to ensure even cooking. This helps each slice absorb the creamy mixture, guaranteeing every bite is deliciously cheesy.
• Cover with foil during initial baking: This traps steam, helping the potatoes cook through without burning the cheese. Removing it later allows the cheese to brown beautifully, creating that irresistible crispy topping.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your dish to sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking helps everything set up nicely. This way, when you serve it, you’ll get clean slices without the layers falling apart.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Serving Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is just as enjoyable as making them. With a few thoughtful touches, you can create an inviting presentation that will impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh chives or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper not only enhances flavor but also gives a subtle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances out the richness of the gratin.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add vibrant colors and textures that complement this hearty dish.
• Grilled chicken or fish: Lean proteins such as grilled chicken breasts or fish fillets provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy potatoes without overpowering them.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans: These green veggies add both color and nutrition, making your meal feel more balanced while still being comforting.

By following these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience around your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, comforting dish without the last-minute rush. You can prepare it in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely first.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• You may cover it with foil to retain moisture while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking point, cover it well, and store it in the fridge for a day or two before baking.

What type of potatoes should I use for Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best because they become tender and creamy when baked.

Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

While you can substitute low-fat milk, keep in mind that it may affect the creaminess of your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin. For a richer flavor, stick with whole milk or a mix of cream and milk.

How do I know when my Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is done?

The dish is ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and you can easily poke through the potatoes with a fork.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin becomes a cherished addition to your recipe repertoire! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings loved ones together. Enjoy making this delightful recipe—it’s sure to impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!