Creamy and Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe 2025

I have a special place in my heart for Creamy and Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe. This dish has been a staple at my family gatherings for as long as I can remember. The combination of tender potatoes, rich cream, and gooey cheese is simply irresistible. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes recipe never fails to impress.

Ingredients for Creamy and Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

Before I dive into the steps, let’s take a look at what you need to make this delicious dish. Here’s a simple list of ingredients:

Servings: 6-8 servings

Potato Ingredients:

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme

How to Make Creamy and Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

Making creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes is easier than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way.

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your au gratin potatoes cook evenly and develop a golden crust.

2. Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will help prevent the potatoes from sticking and make for easier cleanup.

3. Layer the Potatoes and Onions

Begin layering the sliced potatoes and onions in the prepared baking dish. I like to alternate between potatoes and onions for even distribution. It adds flavor and texture to every bite.

4. Make the Creamy Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Whisk everything together until well mixed. This creamy mixture is what makes the potatoes so rich and flavorful.

5. Pour the Cream Over the Potatoes

Once your creamy mixture is ready, pour it evenly over the layered potatoes and onions. Make sure all the potatoes are covered so they cook evenly.

6. Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the potato layers. The cheese creates a deliciously cheesy crust that you won’t be able to resist.

7. Bake the Dish

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes to an hour, or until the potatoes are tender. Remove the foil in the last 15 minutes to let the cheese get golden and bubbly.

8. Let It Rest

Once the au gratin potatoes are done baking, take them out of the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the dish to set and makes serving easier.

9. Serve and Enjoy

Scoop out a generous portion of creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes onto your plate. I love pairing this dish with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Tips for Creamy and Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make my creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes even better. Here are some tips that may help you:

Choose the Right Potatoes: I prefer russet potatoes for their starchiness, which helps create a creamy texture. Yukon Golds are also a great option.
Slice Evenly: Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to ensure even slices. This helps the potatoes cook at the same rate.
Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar and Parmesan are my favorites, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor.
Add Some Crunch: For a bit of texture, consider topping the dish with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before baking.

Variations of Creamy and Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. Here are some variations you can try:

1. Loaded Au Gratin Potatoes

Add cooked bacon bits and green onions for a loaded version. The smoky flavor of the bacon pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes.

2. Vegetable Au Gratin

Mix in some steamed broccoli or cauliflower for added nutrition. The veggies add a nice color and flavor contrast.

3. Spicy Au Gratin Potatoes

Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to give your dish a kick. This is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

How to Store Leftover Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them is simple. Here’s how to do it:

Refrigerate: Place the leftover au gratin potatoes in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but the oven will keep the texture better.

Nutritional Information Creamy and Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information for creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes:

Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g

Why You’ll Love Creamy and Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

There’s something comforting about creamy and cheesy au gratin potatoes. The layers of tender potatoes, rich cream, and melted cheese create a dish that feels like a warm hug. It’s perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or just a cozy night in.