Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is a delightful and creamy dish that elevates any meal. With layers of tender potatoes, infused with the rich flavor of roasted garlic and enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or simply as an indulgent side dish. Its comforting nature and impressive presentation make it a favorite for both casual and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and cheese creates a rich texture that melts in your mouth.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can prepare this dish without fuss, making it great for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside meats or as a stand-alone vegetarian option, this gratin fits into any meal plan.
• Flavorful Garlic Infusion: Roasting the garlic brings out its sweetness, adding a unique depth to the dish.
• Impressive Presentation: Layering the potatoes gives a beautiful look that will wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure you get the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A sharp knife
• Mandoline slicer
• 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish
• Aluminium foil
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Mandoline slicer: Ensures uniform potato slices for even cooking and a perfect texture throughout.
• Baking dish: A sturdy dish helps distribute heat evenly for consistent results when baking.
• Saucepan: Ideal for combining your creamy mixture without boiling, keeping flavors intact.

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Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• 8-9 medium starchy potatoes (about 1.2kg), thinly sliced
• 1 head garlic, cut the top off

For the Cream 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

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your potatoes start cooking at the right temperature.

Step 2: Roast the Garlic

• Cut the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves.
• Place it on a piece of aluminium foil, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt.
• Wrap it in foil and roast in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until soft and golden. Let cool slightly before handling.

Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking. Set aside while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 4: Slice the Potatoes

Peel and thinly slice your potatoes. Using a mandoline slicer will give you uniform slices, which is essential for even cooking.

Step 5: Layer the Potatoes

Take stacks of sliced potatoes and arrange them upright in layers within the baking dish. Continue layering until all potatoes are used.

Step 6: Make the Cream Mixture

In a saucepan:
1. Combine heavy cream, milk, butter, half of the grated parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat over medium until butter melts; do not let it boil.

Step 7: Incorporate Roasted Garlic

Squeeze roasted garlic cloves from their skins into a bowl and mash into a paste. Stir this garlic paste into your cream mixture until well combined.

Step 8: Assemble Everything Together

Pour the creamy mixture over layered potatoes in your baking dish. Ensure all slices are evenly coated. Cover tightly with kitchen foil.

Step 9: Bake Initially Covered

Bake in preheated oven for about 40 minutes. This allows the potatoes to cook through before adding cheese.

Step 10: Add Cheese Topping

Remove foil carefully. Top with shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese and remaining grated parmesan cheese.

Step 11: Final Bake Uncovered

Return to oven uncovered for an additional 30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and potatoes are fork tender.

Step 12: Cool Before Serving

Once done, remove from oven and let cool for several minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

Step 13: Garnish

Finish by garnishing with fresh chives before enjoying this delectable dish!

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is a versatile dish that pairs well with many main courses. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the creamy potatoes beautifully.

Alongside Beef Roast

• A classic beef roast brings rich flavors, making the potatoes a perfect side for a hearty dinner.

Served with Fresh Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the potatoes.

Paired with Steamed Vegetables

• Bright, steamed veggies enhance your plate’s color and provide a fresh contrast to the creamy layers.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• This dish shines during festive occasions, adding warmth and comfort to holiday gatherings with family and friends.

How to Perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

To make your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose the right potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds create a creamy texture that’s ideal for gratin dishes.

• Layer evenly: Ensure that potato slices are uniformly layered for even cooking and flavor distribution.

• Don’t skip roasting the garlic: Roasting garlic enhances its sweetness and mellows its pungency, creating a richer taste in your dish.

• Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a unique twist on flavor.

• Allow resting time: Letting the dish cool slightly before serving helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Pairing side dishes with Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears bring freshness and crunch that pairs beautifully with creamy potatoes.

2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the gratin.

3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing add a refreshing bite alongside rich potatoes.

4. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach offers vibrant color and nutrients while complementing the dish’s creaminess.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add depth and earthy flavors that balance out the richness of the gratin.

6. Balsamic Glazed Green Beans: These beans add tangy notes that enhance the overall flavor profile of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you perfect this dish.

• Boldly skip the garlic roasting: Failing to roast the garlic can lead to a sharp flavor. Always roast it until soft and golden for a milder, sweeter taste.
• Incorrect potato slicing: Not slicing the potatoes evenly can result in uneven cooking. Use a mandoline for consistent thickness.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Baking times are crucial. Make sure to follow the timing closely to achieve tender potatoes and bubbly cheese.
• Using low-fat cream: Opting for low-fat options can alter the creamy texture. Stick with heavy cream or double cream for best results.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can leave your dish bland. Season generously throughout the layers for enhanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze without the cheese topping; add it when reheating.

Reheating Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is a creamy potato dish layered with roasted garlic and cheese, baked until golden and bubbly.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute Gruyère or mozzarella with your favorite cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor.

How do I prevent my potatoes from browning?

To prevent browning, soak sliced potatoes in cold water until ready to use. This helps maintain their color.

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

Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving.

What should I serve with Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

These potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even as part of a festive spread!

Final Thoughts

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is not just a comforting side; it’s versatile enough for any meal. You can customize it by adding different herbs or cheeses based on your preference. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its rich flavors at your next gathering!

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Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the creamy delight of Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin, a comforting side dish that will elevate any meal. This recipe features layers of tender potatoes infused with the sweet richness of roasted garlic, all enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce. Perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, this gratin is not only easy to prepare but also makes an impressive presentation. With its melted cheese topping and beautiful layers, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a favorite addition to your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8–9 medium starchy potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 head garlic
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Fresh thyme leaves
• Nutmeg
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast the garlic wrapped in foil for about 30 minutes until soft and golden.
3. Grease a baking dish with butter.
4. Thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline slicer for uniformity.
5. Layer the potato slices upright in the baking dish.
6. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, butter, half of the parmesan, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper over medium heat until mixed well.
7. Squeeze roasted garlic into a paste and stir into the cream mixture.
8. Pour the creamy mixture over the layered potatoes and cover with foil.
9. Bake covered for 40 minutes, then remove foil and top with remaining cheeses.
10. Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for creaminess. Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors. Allow resting time before serving for easier slicing.