Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, look no further than Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin. This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it combines layers of tender potatoes with the rich flavor of roasted garlic and creamy cheese. It’s truly a showstopper, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering. You can almost hear the oohs and ahhs as you serve this delicious side dish!

The beauty of Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is not just in its taste but also in how easy it is to prepare! You’ll find that every bite is filled with gooey goodness and a hint of garlic that brings everything together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: The combination of roasted garlic and creamy cheese creates an irresistible taste that feels like a warm hug.
• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect even for novice cooks.
• Crowd-pleaser: It’s hard to resist this cheesy potato goodness, making it ideal for gatherings or potlucks.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the dish in advance, making dinner time stress-free!
• Flexible options: This recipe allows for fun variations, so you can customize it to your liking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delightful Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin. Each component adds its own unique flavor, ensuring that every bite is packed with deliciousness!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you want to switch things up or add your own special touch, consider these tasty variations:

• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale between the potato layers for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the cream mixture for a little kick.
• Cheese swap: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or feta for unique flavor profiles!
• Herb infusion: Mix in other herbs such as rosemary or oregano alongside thyme for added depth.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by roasting the garlic; this step is essential as it transforms raw garlic into sweet, caramelized goodness. Cut off the top of the garlic head to expose those lovely cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt before wrapping it in aluminum foil. Roast it until soft and golden—about 30 minutes—then let it cool slightly so you can handle it easily.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dish

While your garlic is roasting away, take a moment to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Greasing ensures that your beautiful gratin won’t stick! Set aside while preparing your potatoes.

Step 3: Slice Those Potatoes

Now comes the fun part—peeling and thinly slicing your starchy potatoes! I highly recommend using a mandoline slicer if you have one; this makes getting those uniform slices super easy. Even slices cook evenly and look great when served.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Take those lovely potato slices and start arranging them upright in layers within your greased dish. This not only looks stunning but helps each slice absorb all that creamy goodness! Continue layering until all your potatoes are used—trust me, it’s worth it!

Step 5: Create the Creamy Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, butter, half of the grated parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything melds together beautifully without letting it boil. This mixture will be key in infusing flavor into our potatoes!

Step 6: Add Roasted Garlic

Once your garlic has cooled down enough to handle, squeeze out those sweet cloves from their skins into a bowl and mash them into a paste. Stir this roasted garlic paste into your creamy mixture until fully incorporated—this step brings all those delicious flavors together!

Step 7: Pour Over Potatoes

Carefully pour the creamy garlic mixture over your layered potatoes in the baking dish. Make sure every slice gets coated evenly! Cover tightly with kitchen foil; this helps steam cook those potatoes perfectly.

Step 8: Bake Away!

Pop the covered dish into your preheated oven for about 40 minutes. This allows those potatoes to soften beautifully while soaking up all that creamy goodness.

Step 9: Cheese Time!

After 40 minutes have passed, carefully remove the foil (watch out for steam!). Now it’s time to layer on the shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese along with any remaining grated parmesan cheese on top.

Step 10: Finish Baking

Return your dish back to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it—you’re waiting until that cheese is bubbly and golden brown while ensuring the potatoes are fork-tender!

Step 11: Cool Down & Serve

Once done baking, take your glorious potato au gratin out of the oven and let it cool for just a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives for that extra pop of color!

And there you have it! A comforting plate of Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin that’s sure to delight everyone at your table! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your dish even further!

• Use starchy potatoes: Choosing starchy varieties like Yukon Gold or Russet will give your gratin a creamy texture that’s irresistible. They absorb the flavors beautifully and become tender while baking.

• Layer wisely: For even cooking and maximum flavor, ensure that your potato layers are uniform in thickness. This helps them cook evenly and soak up that delicious creamy garlic mixture.

• Don’t rush the garlic roasting: Roasting the garlic until it’s soft and caramelized enhances its flavor significantly. This step is crucial for achieving that rich, sweet taste that complements the potatoes perfectly.

• Let it rest: Allowing the gratin to sit for a few minutes after baking gives it time to set. This will make serving easier and ensures each slice holds together nicely!

• Experiment with cheeses: While Gruyère is traditional, feel free to mix in some sharp cheddar or Fontina for added depth of flavor. Each cheese brings its unique touch to this comforting dish.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Presenting your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin beautifully can make a meal feel extra special! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh chives: Chopped fresh chives add a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy potatoes.
• Parmesan sprinkle: A light dusting of grated Parmesan right before serving can enhance the cheesy goodness and make the dish look more appealing.
• Olive oil drizzle: A slight drizzle of good-quality olive oil over the top just before serving adds richness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gratin, balancing out your meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini bring vibrant colors and additional nutrients to your plate.
• Grilled chicken or fish: Pairing your gratin with grilled chicken breast or fish fillets keeps things light while still satisfying those hearty cravings.
• Steamed broccoli: The bright green of steamed broccoli not only adds visual appeal but also offers a crunchy texture that complements the creamy potatoes wonderfully.

Enjoy creating this delightful dish and serving it alongside tasty sides that will impress family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is a fantastic choice for meal prep, as it can be made in advance and stored for later enjoyment. This hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, allowing you to savor its deliciousness without spending hours in the kitchen.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the potatoes au gratin to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• When reheating, you can cover it with foil to prevent drying out.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the dish is completely cooled.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or use a large airtight container.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through (about 20-30 minutes), or microwave individual portions until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin that might help you as you prepare this delightful dish.

Can I make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin without cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream for a lighter option while retaining creamy goodness.

How long do Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin last in the fridge?

Properly stored, Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin will last in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just remember to let it cool before placing it in an airtight container!

Can I add other vegetables to Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—a delightful recipe for Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin that is sure to warm your heart and please your palate. This dish blends the rich flavors of roasted garlic with creamy cheese and tender potatoes, making it a truly special addition to any meal. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe with your loved ones as much as I do. Happy cooking!