Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing, then Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is the answer! This recipe has been a beloved staple in my kitchen for years. There’s just something magical about the creamy layers of potatoes infused with roasted garlic that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this dish always steals the show.

What makes this recipe extra special is its simplicity and rich flavor. It’s an easy way to elevate any meal, making it one of my go-to recipes for potlucks and cozy dinners alike. Trust me, once you serve these Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin, you’ll be asked for the recipe time and time again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning dish that looks like it took hours.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! This dish is sure to please both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can assemble everything in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously flavorful: The combination of roasted garlic and melty cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Perfect for any occasion: From weeknight dinners to holiday feasts, this dish fits right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives, for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Add some greens: Layer in some sautéed spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Mix up the cheeses: Try using different cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a unique twist on flavor.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a touch of smoked paprika for some extra heat.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your potatoes cook evenly and develop that lovely golden-brown crust.

Step 2: Roast the Garlic

Begin by roasting the garlic. Cut off the top of the garlic head to expose those delicious cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, wrap it in foil, and roast for about 30 minutes. This step brings out the sweetness of the garlic, making it creamy and perfect for mixing into your sauce.

Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While your garlic roasts away, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. This will prevent sticking and help achieve that beautiful golden finish.

Step 4: Slice Your Potatoes

Now it’s time to peel and thinly slice those starchy potatoes. A mandoline slicer works wonders here for even slices. Uniformity is key to ensuring that they cook perfectly through!

Step 5: Layer the Potatoes

Take those nicely sliced potatoes and arrange them upright in layers within your baking dish. This not only looks stunning but also allows each layer to soak up all that creamy goodness.

Step 6: Make Your Cream Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, butter, half of the grated parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is melted together but avoid boiling—this mixture needs to be smooth and cohesive.

Step 7: Add Roasted Garlic

Once your garlic is roasted to perfection, squeeze out those soft cloves from their skins and mash them into a paste. Stir this heavenly roasted garlic paste into your creamy mixture until well combined.

Step 8: Pour Over Potatoes

Pour that luscious creamy mixture over your layered potatoes in the baking dish. Make sure all slices are evenly coated; we want maximum flavor here!

Step 9: Bake Covered

Cover your dish tightly with kitchen foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping those potatoes tender.

Step 10: Add Cheese Topping

After baking covered, remove the foil and sprinkle on shredded Gruyère or mozzarella along with remaining parmesan cheese. This step adds that gooey cheesiness we all crave!

Step 11: Final Bake Uncovered

Return your dish to the oven uncovered for another 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. The smell will be absolutely divine!

Step 12: Cool & Serve

Once done baking, let your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin cool slightly before serving. It’s hard to wait because they look so delicious!

Step 13: Garnish & Enjoy!

Finally, garnish with fresh chives before diving in! Enjoy every cheesy bite—your family will thank you!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Creating the perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin can be a delightful experience, and these pro tips will help you achieve that creamy, cheesy perfection!

• Use starchy potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds yield the best texture in this dish. They absorb the creamy sauce beautifully and become tender while baking.
• Slice evenly: Aim for uniform slices, about 1/8 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect melt-in-your-mouth consistency throughout the dish.
• Don’t skip the roasting of garlic: Roasting garlic brings out its natural sweetness and mellows its flavor, adding depth to your dish. It transforms the garlic from pungent to pleasantly aromatic, enhancing the overall taste.
• Allow cheese to melt properly: When you add cheese on top, bake it uncovered to allow for that golden-brown crust. This step not only adds flavor but also gives a wonderful texture contrast to the creamy potatoes underneath.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your potatoes au gratin to rest for about 10 minutes after baking makes it easier to serve and helps the layers hold together better. This is especially important if you’re planning to impress guests!

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Serving your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at mealtime!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped fresh chives or parsley sprinkled on top add a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate your gratin with a delightful kick.

Side Dishes

• Green Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the potatoes.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus complement this dish beautifully while adding vibrant colors and textures.
• Grilled Chicken or Fish: Simple grilled proteins such as lemon-herb chicken or salmon offer a light balance to the cheesy potatoes without overshadowing their flavors.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds both color and nutrition, making for a well-rounded meal that’s visually appealing as well as delicious.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, it’s a great dish to have on hand for busy weeknights or special occasions!

Storing Leftovers

• Let the potatoes cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• When ready to eat, check for freshness before reheating.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. Remove the foil during the last few minutes if you want a crispy top.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, I’ve got you covered!

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

Absolutely! While Gruyère and mozzarella provide a wonderful texture, feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or fontina for different flavor profiles.

How do I make my Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin creamier?

To achieve an even creamier texture, you can increase the amount of heavy cream used or add a bit more butter into the mixture. Just be mindful of balancing flavors!

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

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with a mixture of whole milk and a bit more butter. This will still give you a rich flavor while being lighter.

What kind of potatoes work best for Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal as they become tender and creamy when baked. Avoid waxy potatoes as they may not yield the same results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin as much as I do! This comforting dish has a way of bringing everyone together at the table, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it—after all, cooking is all about creativity! Happy cooking!