Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and pleases the palate, then you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy goodness layered with tender potatoes and infused with the rich flavor of roasted garlic. It’s my go-to comfort food, especially during those cozy autumn nights or festive family gatherings. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress.

I love how this recipe brings everyone together. It’s not just about the food; it’s about sharing moments around the table with loved ones. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this scrumptious Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep, you’ll have this delicious dish ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for any meal – from holiday feasts to casual dinners with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that deliver big on flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Dish

• 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

For Garnish

• Fresh chives

Variations

The beauty of Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some thinly sliced onions or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a hint of heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese.
• Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or Fontina for unique flavor profiles.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based cheese alternatives.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). To roast the garlic, cut off the top of a head of garlic to expose those lovely cloves. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt. Wrap it in foil and roast it for about 30 minutes until soft and golden. This step is crucial because roasting transforms garlic into a sweet, buttery delight that elevates our dish!

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While your garlic is getting all cozy in the oven, take a moment to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving later on.

Step 3: Slice Those Potatoes

Next up, peel and thinly slice your potatoes. I highly recommend using a mandoline slicer if you have one; it makes achieving even slices so much easier!

Step 4: Layering Time!

Now comes the fun part! Take those potato slices and arrange them upright in layers within your greased baking dish. This not only looks beautiful but also allows every layer to soak up that creamy goodness.

Step 5: Make the Cream Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, butter, half of the grated parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined without letting it boil. This mixture will be what brings our potatoes together in creamy harmony.

Step 6: Add Roasted Garlic

Once your garlic is roasted and slightly cooled, squeeze out those cloves from their skins and mash them into a smooth paste. Stir this roasted garlic paste into your creamy mixture – trust me; this adds an incredible depth of flavor!

Step 7: Combine Everything

Pour that luscious cream mixture over your layered potatoes in the baking dish. Be sure they are evenly coated! Cover tightly with kitchen foil to keep everything moist while baking.

Step 8: Bake Away!

Pop your dish into the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. This allows those potatoes to become tender while soaking up all that garlicky goodness.

Step 9: Add Cheese Topping

Remove the foil after 40 minutes and sprinkle on your shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese along with the remaining grated parmesan cheese. Return it uncovered to bake for another 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

When done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives for that final touch! Now gather around your table and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Creating the perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is all about attention to detail, and these simple tips will help you elevate your dish to another level.

• Choose the right potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal for this recipe as they create a creamy texture when baked. Avoid waxy potatoes that can become mushy.
• Slice evenly: Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to ensure your potato slices are uniform in thickness. This guarantees even cooking and prevents some pieces from being overdone while others remain crunchy.
• Don’t rush the garlic roasting: Take your time when roasting the garlic; it’s key to developing its sweet, caramelized flavor. If you skip this step or rush it, you might miss out on the rich taste that makes this dish special.
• Layer wisely: When stacking the potatoes, alternate directions for each layer. This not only adds visual appeal but also helps in achieving better heat distribution during baking.
• Let it rest: Allowing the finished dish to rest for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to cut into portions without falling apart.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Serving Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin can be just as delightful as making them! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme on top just before serving to add color and freshness.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper not only adds a bit of spice but also enhances the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds a wonderful crunch and balances the richness of the gratin.
• Simple green salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy potatoes.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and variety to your meal while keeping it healthy.
• Roasted chicken thighs: Juicy roasted chicken thighs seasoned with herbs can complement the flavors of the gratin perfectly, making for a hearty dinner option.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin will not only taste delicious but also look stunning on any table! Enjoy creating and sharing this comforting dish with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin recipe is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy creamy, cheesy goodness throughout the week. You can prepare it in advance and store it, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the potatoes au gratin cool down to room temperature.
• Cut into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the dish in an oven-safe container, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin.

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

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with a mixture of whole milk and a bit of cornstarch for thickness. Your gratin will still be creamy and delicious!

How do I ensure my Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin doesn’t turn out watery?

Make sure you slice your potatoes evenly and layer them tightly; this helps with even cooking. Also, cooking off excess moisture from the cream mixture before pouring it over the potatoes can help prevent any excess liquid.

What can I serve with Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

These delightful potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. They’re versatile enough to complement many main dishes!

Final Thoughts

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is truly a special recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. The layers of tender potatoes bathed in roasted garlic creaminess create a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to try it out and share your thoughts – happy cooking!