Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for a dish that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings, you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug on a plate. The creamy layers of perfectly sliced potatoes infused with rich roasted garlic flavor create a delightful experience that everyone will love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this dish fits right in. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress!

I believe food should be about bringing people together, and this Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin does just that. Its deliciousness makes it perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or simply enjoying a cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this dish ready without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will rave about the cheesy goodness!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted garlic and creamy cheese is simply irresistible.
• Comfort Food Classic: It’s the ultimate side dish for any meal, bringing warmth and joy to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the joy of cooking! For this Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin, you’ll need:

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to switch it up:

• Add Veggies: Boost nutrition by layering in some sautéed spinach or broccoli with the potatoes.
• Change the Cheese: Swap out Gruyère for sharp cheddar or a creamy fontina for different flavor profiles.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a twist on traditional flavors.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an exciting kick!

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roasting the garlic brings out its natural sweetness and mellows its sharpness. Cut off the top of the garlic head to expose those lovely cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, wrap in foil, and roast until golden—about 30 minutes. Let it cool before handling!

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While your garlic is roasting, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with unsalted butter. This will prevent sticking and help achieve that golden crust we all love.

Step 3: Slice Those Potatoes

Now it’s time to peel and thinly slice those starchy potatoes. A mandoline slicer works wonders here, giving you even slices that cook perfectly.

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes

Take those lovely potato slices and arrange them upright in layers within your prepared baking dish. This technique looks beautiful and ensures every bite is filled with flavor.

Step 5: Make the Cream Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, butter, half of the grated parmesan cheese, fresh thyme leaves, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Heating gently until everything is melted together allows all those flavors to meld beautifully—just don’t let it boil!

Step 6: Incorporate Roasted Garlic

Once your garlic has cooled slightly, squeeze out the soft cloves into a bowl and mash them into a paste. Stir this heavenly mixture into your creamy sauce until well combined.

Step 7: Pour Over Potatoes

Carefully pour that luscious cream mixture over your layered potatoes in the baking dish. Ensure every slice gets coated—this is where all that delightful flavor comes from! Cover tightly with kitchen foil.

Step 8: Bake Initially

Bake your potatoes au gratin in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. This step allows them to cook through while soaking up all those wonderful flavors!

Step 9: Add Cheese Topping

After those first glorious minutes of baking, remove the foil and sprinkle on shredded Gruyère or mozzarella along with remaining parmesan cheese.

Step 10: Final Bake

Return your dish back into the oven uncovered for another 30 minutes until that cheese is bubbly and golden brown! The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly.

Step 11: Cool & Garnish

Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish generously with fresh chives for that extra pop of color and flavor.

And there you have it! A delicious serving of Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin ready to be enjoyed by all!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin can be a delightful experience with these helpful tips!

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best because they become soft and creamy when baked. Waxy potatoes may not yield the same luscious texture.

• Uniform Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer for consistent potato thickness. This ensures even cooking, so all layers bake to perfection simultaneously.

• Don’t Rush the Garlic: Allowing the garlic to roast slowly brings out its sweetness and depth of flavor. It makes a significant difference in taste compared to raw garlic.

• Layering is Key: When layering the potatoes, ensure an even distribution of salt, pepper, and cheese. This will enhance the flavors throughout the dish instead of just at the top.

• Let it Rest: After baking, let your gratin sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely, making it easier to slice and serve beautiful portions.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Serving Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin can turn a simple meal into something special. Here are some ideas!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or rosemary adds color and an aromatic touch that complements the richness of the dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
• Extra Cheese: A light dusting of additional grated cheese right before serving offers an extra layer of cheesiness that everyone loves!

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy gratin.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots bring color and additional nutrients to your meal while harmonizing with the dish’s flavors.
• Grilled Chicken or Fish: Pairing your gratin with grilled chicken breast or fish fillet creates a well-rounded plate that satisfies both protein needs and taste buds.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and nutrition, while its vibrant green color makes for an appealing presentation alongside your cheesy potatoes.

Now you have all you need to create this comforting dish that’s sure to impress friends and family. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is perfect for meal prep! This comforting dish can be easily made in advance, making it a fantastic option for busy weekdays or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze before baking if you plan to make them ahead of time.
• Prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cream mixture, then cover tightly and freeze.
• When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before proceeding with baking instructions.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the leftover potatoes in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
• Reheat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes if you want to crisp up the cheese topping.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin:

Can I make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin without cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with a plant-based cream or a blend of vegetable broth and non-dairy milk for a lighter version.

How do I store Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing before baking.

What types of cheese work best for Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Gruyère and mozzarella are excellent choices, but you can also use cheddar or any cheese that melts well. Feel free to mix cheeses for added flavor!

Can I add other ingredients to my Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Absolutely! Consider adding sautéed onions, spinach, or even cooked mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin recipe becomes a cherished favorite in your home as it has in mine! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings everyone together. Enjoy making this creamy delight, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations with me. Happy cooking!