There is something truly comforting and downright irresistible about Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe. This dish combines tender Yukon Gold potatoes with layers of rich, velvety cheese sauce that melts perfectly into every nook and cranny. Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or looking for a standout side to accompany your holiday feast, this recipe delivers cozy, cheesy goodness that brings everyone running to the table. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why it hasn’t been a weekly staple in your kitchen all along!

A white rectangular baking dish filled with a golden brown, baked layered potato casserole, with the top layer showing thin, slightly browned potato slices arranged in a pattern. The edges of the dish have a dark brown, crispy baked crust. Small pieces of green herbs are sprinkled on top, adding color contrast to the golden cheese and potatoes. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a checkered cloth partially visible on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and golden crust that make this dish unforgettable. Using Yukon Gold potatoes brings a lovely buttery finish and a perfect softness without falling apart, while the blend of cheeses guarantees richness and depth.

6-7 medium Yukon Gold potatoes: Thinly sliced for even cooking and a tender bite.
½ white or yellow onion: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the cheese’s richness.
2 tablespoons salted butter: Creates a luscious base for the sauce and enhances flavor.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the creamy sauce to the perfect consistency.
1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk: Makes the sauce smooth and lighter without sacrificing creaminess.
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese: The star cheese that melts into smoky, tangy goodness.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory note without overpowering.
¾ teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasoning to brighten flavors.
½ cup Gruyere cheese: For a nutty, melt-in-your-mouth topping that browns beautifully.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: A sharp finishing touch to elevate the crust.
Fresh chopped parsley: For a pop of color and fresh contrast as garnish.

How to Make Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Dish and Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, and grease your baking dish to ensure nothing sticks. Thinly slice your Yukon Gold potatoes into delicate 1/8-inch rounds—they cook evenly and absorb the sauce perfectly. Arrange the potatoes in three neat, slanted rows in the dish, leaving just enough space so the slices overlap slightly but don’t get crowded. Slip the onion slices in between and atop the potatoes wherever you find gaps; this will add wonderful layers of flavor as everything bakes together.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Cheese Sauce

The real magic of Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe lies in the sauce. Melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour carefully, starting small so you don’t get lumps. Slowly add the almond milk while continually whisking—it should become a smooth, creamy gravy-like consistency. Turn the heat down and stir in the sharp cheddar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste your sauce here to get the seasoning just right—it’s the backbone of this dish’s rich, comforting flavor.

Step 3: Assemble and Start Baking

Pour the luscious cheese sauce evenly over your potatoes and onions, completely covering them so every slice gets coated in creamy goodness. Cover the dish with foil to trap steam and bake for 45 minutes. This step allows the potatoes to cook through gently while soaking up the sauce.

Step 4: Add the Cheesy Topping and Finish Baking

After the initial bake, remove the foil and sprinkle the surface with Gruyere and Parmesan. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for another 30 to 45 minutes until the cheese topping is golden brown and bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender. You’ll know it’s perfect when you can easily pierce the middle with a fork and see the sauce bubbling around the edges. Let the dish rest briefly before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.

How to Serve Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

A white rectangular baking dish filled with a golden-brown scalloped potato casserole, showing about three visible layers of thinly sliced potatoes covered in creamy cheese sauce with browned spots on top. The top layer has a slightly crispy, melted cheese texture with dark golden patches and is sprinkled with chopped green herbs. A golden spoon is scooping into the dish, revealing the soft, creamy potato slices underneath. A partial view of a white plate with a serving of the same casserole garnished with green herbs is visible on the left side, all placed on a white marbled surface with a black and white cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While this dish is stunning on its own, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a delightful burst of color but also a fresh, slightly herbal counterpoint to the rich cheese. You can also add a few cracks of black pepper on top just before serving for a little extra seasoning punch.

Side Dishes

Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe is a perfect companion to roast meats like turkey, chicken, or beef, but don’t stop there! Try pairing it with roasted vegetables or a crisp, bright salad to balance the creamy richness. It also works brilliantly alongside hearty stews or as the star at a vegetarian meal with some garlicky sautéed greens.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try serving individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. This not only makes for an adorable presentation but ensures each serving has an irresistible crispy top. Another fun idea is layering some cooked bacon or ham in between potato rounds for an added smoky surprise that elevates the classic au gratin flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen overnight, making the next meal an equally comforting delight.

Freezing

If you want to freeze it, place the fully baked dish or individual portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. For best texture, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain that creamy consistency without becoming mushy.

Reheating

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the sauce may separate and potatoes can become rubbery instead of perfectly creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yukon Golds are ideal for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, but you can use Russets if you prefer a fluffier texture. Just be cautious with slicing and cooking times, as Russets tend to fall apart more easily.

What if I don’t have almond milk?

No worries at all! Regular dairy milk, whether whole or skim, works beautifully in this recipe. The sauce may be slightly richer with whole milk, but any milk will create that creamy base you’re after.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, swap the butter for a vegan butter alternative and use dairy-free cheeses that melt well. The sauce can be made with almond or another plant-based milk. While the flavor may differ a bit, it still captures the spirit of Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe deliciously.

How do I know when the potatoes are done?

The potatoes are fully cooked when a fork easily pierces through the center without resistance. The baking times given are guidelines, so checking at the 30-minute mark after removing the foil is a good idea.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?

Absolutely! Assemble everything up to the point of baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time since the dish will be cold from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the warmth and indulgence of Dad’s Creamy & Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe to bring loved ones together around the table. It’s comforting, rich, and easy enough to become a go-to for weeknights or special occasions. Trust me, once you make this dish, it’ll become a beloved classic that gets requested again and again. So grab those potatoes, crank up the oven, and get ready to savor some serious cheesy joy!