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Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe Easy Crispy Golden Top

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A comforting and easy-to-make creamy cheesy au gratin potatoes dish with a crispy golden crust and tender, silky potatoes underneath. Perfect as a side for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole or 2% milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheese blend
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional but recommended)
  • Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Peel and slice the potatoes into thin, even slices about 1/8 inch thick.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to form a roux.
  5. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  6. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring often, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  7. Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Butter your baking dish lightly. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the dish.
  9. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
  10. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce, smoothing the top.
  11. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheese evenly over the top, then add the breadcrumbs for a crispy golden crust.
  12. Bake uncovered for 50-60 minutes until the top is golden and crispy and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  13. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.

Notes

If the topping browns too quickly, tent the dish loosely with foil halfway through baking. Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version. For dairy-free, substitute butter with dairy-free margarine or olive oil, use coconut or almond milk, and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Let the dish rest before serving to help the sauce set and prevent sliding.

Nutrition

Keywords: au gratin potatoes, cheesy potatoes, creamy potatoes, crispy potato casserole, comfort food, easy side dish

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/creamy-cheesy-au-gratin-potatoes-recipe-easy-crispy-golden-top/