Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then look no further than Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin! This recipe is like a cozy hug on a plate, filled with layers of tender potatoes smothered in creamy goodness and the aromatic essence of roasted garlic. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering. Trust me, once you serve this up, you’ll see happy faces all around the table!

What I love most about Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is its versatility. You can whip it up as a simple side for your favorite protein or make it the star of the meal. The cheesy, garlic-infused layers are sure to delight both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you won’t need to be a culinary expert to impress your guests.
• Family-friendly: This dish appeals to all ages; even picky eaters can’t resist the creamy, cheesy layers!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can assemble this dish ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready—perfect for busy days.
• Deliciously comforting: The warm flavors of roasted garlic and melting cheese create an irresistible combination that feels like home.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a festive dinner or just a cozy night in, this recipe suits every gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are 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

For Topping

• 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 how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what’s in your pantry or your personal taste preferences.

• Add some veggies: Toss in thinly sliced onions or spinach between potato layers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into your creamy mixture for a kick.
• Cheese swap: Experiment with different cheeses! Cheddar or fontina can add their unique flair to this classic dish.
• Herb twist: Change up the herbs by adding rosemary or parsley instead of thyme for a different aromatic experience.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roasting garlic brings out its sweet flavor while mellowing its sharpness. Cut off the top of the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt before wrapping it in foil. Let it roast for about 30 minutes until soft and golden—this will be the flavorful base of our dish!

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While your garlic is roasting away, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with butter. This step ensures that your beautiful potatoes won’t stick as they bake into perfection.

Step 3: Slice Those Potatoes

Next up, peel and thinly slice your potatoes! A mandoline slicer works wonders here for uniform slices. Even thickness means they’ll cook evenly—a key step in achieving creamy deliciousness.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Begin stacking those potato slices upright in your greased dish—layer after layer until you’ve used them all up! This technique not only looks stunning but also allows each slice to soak up that luscious cream mixture beautifully.

Step 5: Create Your Creamy Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, butter, half of your parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until everything melds together without boiling. This velvety mixture is what makes our gratin so rich!

Step 6: Add That Roasted Garlic Goodness

Once your garlic has cooled slightly after roasting, squeeze those cloves from their skins into a bowl and mash them into a paste. Stir this roasted garlic paste into your creamy mixture—it adds depth that perfectly complements our potatoes.

Step 7: Assemble Everything Together

Pour that creamy goodness over your layered potatoes evenly—make sure every slice gets coated! Cover tightly with foil before baking. We want those flavors locked in!

Step 8: Bake Away!

Pop those potatoes au gratin into your preheated oven for about 40 minutes. Once they’re nice and tender underneath that foil…

Step 9: Cheese It Up!

Remove the foil and sprinkle on the remaining shredded cheese along with the reserved parmesan on top. Bake uncovered for another 30 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Let it cool slightly before serving—this helps everything set just right! Garnish with fresh chives to add color and freshness before digging in. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Creating the perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin can be a delightful experience with just a few thoughtful tips!

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best as they become creamy and tender while baking, ensuring a deliciously smooth texture.
• Uniform Slices Are Key: Use a mandoline slicer for consistent thickness. This ensures even cooking throughout, allowing all layers to meld together beautifully.
• Roast the Garlic to Perfection: Don’t rush the garlic roasting step; it adds sweetness and depth of flavor. Make sure it’s golden and soft for the best results.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to cool slightly after baking enhances flavor and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While Gruyère and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to mix in other favorites like cheddar or gouda for unique twists on flavor.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Serving Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is all about showcasing its creamy layers and rich flavors. Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh Chives: A sprinkle of finely chopped chives adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Extra Cheese: A light dusting of additional shredded cheese right before serving can make it look decadent while enhancing its cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a bright contrast to the richness of the gratin.
• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini roasted with olive oil make for a colorful, nutritious side that pairs well with creamy dishes.
• Grilled Chicken or Fish: A protein option like grilled chicken breast or fish fillets seasoned simply allows the potatoes’ flavors to shine without overwhelming them.
• Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: Lightly steamed broccoli or asparagus brings in crunch and freshness, balancing out the creaminess of the gratin beautifully.

Now you’re all set to enjoy your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin! Whether served at family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this dish will surely impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the potatoes au gratin cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, it’s advisable to freeze before baking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin that might help you out!

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

Absolutely! While Gruyère and mozzarella create a beautiful combination, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or fontina for different flavors.

How long does it take to make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

The total time is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, including preparation and cooking time. It’s well worth the wait!

Can this recipe be made without cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream for a lighter option. The flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!

What’s the best way to slice potatoes for this recipe?

Using a mandoline slicer ensures even, thin slices that cook uniformly. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife will work, but take care to slice as evenly as possible.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin a try! It’s a dish that exudes comfort and warmth, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite, and feel free to share your experience! Happy cooking!