Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and brings everyone together, look no further than Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin. This recipe is my go-to for cozy dinners and festive gatherings alike. The layers of creamy, cheesy potatoes infused with rich roasted garlic create a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

There’s something incredibly comforting about digging into a bubbling dish of Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin. It’s the kind of meal that invites seconds and even thirds, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your favorites too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to bake in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of garlic and cheese is always a hit with family and friends!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble this dish in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfectly complements any main course, from roasted chicken to vegetarian entrees.
• Comfort Food at its Best: Warm, creamy, and cheesy—this dish truly embodies comfort food!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is half the fun! You’ll find these are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully. Here’s what you 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
• 2 cups (about 220g) shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh chives, for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is how flexible it is! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Vegetables: Layer in some thinly sliced zucchini or spinach for extra nutrients and color.
• Spice it Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Cheese Lovers Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavors.
• Herb Infusion: Swap out thyme for rosemary or oregano to give your gratin a different aromatic twist.

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 is key—it brings out its sweet flavor and makes it wonderfully creamy. Cut off the top of the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, wrap in foil, and roast until soft and golden. Let it cool before using.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While your garlic roasts, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with some butter. This helps prevent sticking and ensures easy serving later on.

Step 3: Slice Your Potatoes

Peel and thinly slice your potatoes—using a mandoline slicer can make this step super quick! Even slices ensure they cook uniformly.

Step 4: Layer Your Potatoes

Now comes the fun part—layering! Stand your potato slices upright in the greased baking dish. It looks beautiful when baked and allows every slice to soak up that delicious creamy mixture.

Step 5: Mix Your Creamy Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine your heavy cream, milk, butter, half of the grated parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Gently heat until everything melts into a smooth mixture—just don’t let it boil!

Step 6: Add Roasted Garlic

Once your garlic has cooled down enough to handle it, squeeze out those lovely cloves into a bowl and mash them into a paste. Stir this paste into your cream mixture until well combined—this is where all that luscious flavor comes from!

Step 7: Combine Everything

Pour that creamy goodness over your arranged potatoes in the baking dish. Make sure every slice gets coated! Cover tightly with foil so they can steam as they cook.

Step 8: Bake!

Pop your covered dish into the oven for about 40 minutes. This will allow those potatoes to soften perfectly.

Step 9: Add Cheese Topping

After 40 minutes are up, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle on your shredded cheese along with the remaining parmesan. Return it to the oven uncovered for another 30 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 10: Cool & Serve

Once done baking, take out your stunning creation and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives for an extra touch of color! Enjoy every bite of this delicious comfort food!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Making the perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out heavenly!

• Use starchy potatoes: Starchy potatoes, such as Russets, yield a creamier texture and help absorb the flavors of the garlic and cheese, making each bite irresistible.
• Layer evenly: When arranging your potato slices in the dish, try to keep the layers even. This ensures that they cook uniformly and every slice gets that delicious creamy goodness.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the dish to cool for a few minutes after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall texture.
• Experiment with cheeses: While Gruyère is traditional, feel free to mix in other cheese varieties like cheddar or fontina for a unique twist. Each cheese brings its own flavor profile and can make your gratin even more delicious!
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your creamy mixture before pouring it over the potatoes. Adjusting salt, pepper, or herbs at this stage can make a big difference in flavor.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Presentation is key when serving this delightful dish! The golden-brown top and creamy layers will surely impress your guests. Here are some ideas to make your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin shine on any table.

Garnishes

• Fresh chives: Chopped fresh chives add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the gratin.
• Parmesan sprinkle: A light sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan just before serving adds an appealing look and an extra cheesy kick.
• Olive oil drizzle: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the top enhances flavors and adds a beautiful sheen.

Side Dishes

• Green salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich potatoes.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots bring color and balance without overshadowing your main dish.
• Grilled chicken or fish: For meat lovers, grilled chicken breasts or salmon fillets can be a fantastic protein addition that pairs nicely with creamy potatoes.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans: Lightly steamed greens add a nutritious element while their vibrant color enhances the overall presentation of your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience with your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin! Enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors throughout the week. You can easily prepare it in advance, making it an ideal side dish for busy evenings or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely.
• Portion out individual servings into freezer-safe containers.
• Cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerator leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the oven as above. Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish to reheat in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

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

Can I make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or a mixture of additional milk and cornstarch to achieve a creamy consistency.

How do I store leftovers of 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 individual portions.

Can I prepare Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add extra baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What’s the best type of cheese for Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

While Gruyère is traditional, you can also use mozzarella or any other cheese that melts well. Feel free to mix and match according to your preference!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin recipe brings warmth and joy to your table! It’s not just a dish; it’s comfort food that turns any meal into something special. Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones—I’m sure they’ll appreciate every cheesy, garlicky bite! Happy cooking!