Creamy Crusted Au Gratin Potatoes
🥔 Preparation Time: 15 minutes
⏳ Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
⏲️ Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 6
Description:
Indulge in the classic comfort of Creamy Crusted Au Gratin Potatoes, a beloved family favorite that graces our Easter table every year alongside ham. This recipe is a delectable blend of tender potatoes and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all topped with a golden crust that promises to be the highlight of any meal. Perfect for a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday feast, these au gratin potatoes are easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 6 russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), allowing it to reach the perfect baking temperature while you prepare the dish. -
Prepare the Casserole Dish:
Generously butter a large square casserole dish. This not only helps in preventing the potatoes from sticking but also adds a touch of flavor. -
Layer the Potatoes:
Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Evenly layer the chopped onion over the potatoes. Follow with the remaining potato slices, ensuring a nice even layer. -
Season the Layers:
Season the layered potatoes and onions with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The seasoning helps to enhance the flavor of the potatoes and the overall dish. -
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s fully liquid and starts to bubble. Stir in the flour and salt, using a whisk to blend the ingredients smoothly. Continue to cook and whisk constantly for about one minute to form a roux, which will thicken your sauce. -
Add the Milk:
Gradually stir in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Keep cooking the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and begins to bubble. -
Incorporate the Cheese:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese all at once. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This process should take about 30 to 60 seconds. -
Combine and Bake:
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes in the casserole dish. Sprinkle the top with paprika for a touch of color and extra flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper as well. -
Cover and Cook:
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 1 1/2 hours. This will ensure the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld together beautifully. -
Final Touch:
After the baking time, carefully remove the foil and let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese sauce to set and makes serving easier.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 381.4
- Fat: 17.6g
- Saturated Fat: 11.1g
- Cholesterol: 53.5mg
- Sodium: 656.5mg
- Carbohydrates: 43.3g
- Fiber: 4.8g
- Sugar: 1.8g
- Protein: 13.8g
Enjoy these rich, creamy au gratin potatoes as the centerpiece of your next family meal or festive occasion. They’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table, offering a deliciously comforting side that pairs perfectly with ham, roast beef, or even a simple green salad. Happy cooking! 🥂🧀🍽️
