Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The roasted garlic adds a deep, sweet flavor that elevates the creamy sauce.

• Comforting and Hearty: Layers of tender potatoes covered in creamy cheese make this the ultimate comfort food.

• Simple Yet Elegant: It’s easy to prepare but looks and tastes like a gourmet side dish.

Ingredients

• 8-9 medium starchy potatoes (about 1.2kg), thinly sliced

• 1 head garlic, cut the top off

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup whole milk

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/3 teaspoon dried thyme)

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided

• 2 cups shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh chives for garnish

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

1. Roast the Garlic: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the top off the garlic head and drizzle with olive oil and salt. Wrap it in foil and roast for about 30 minutes until soft and golden. Allow it to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Potatoes: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes, preferably using a mandoline slicer for even slices. Arrange the slices upright in layers in the prepared dish.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, butter, thyme, nutmeg, half of the grated parmesan, and salt and pepper. Heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir in the roasted garlic paste.

4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the creamy sauce over the potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 30 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.

5. Serve: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes

• Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: Try different cheeses like cheddar or Havarti for a different flavor profile.

• Add Ins: Incorporate cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions for extra richness.

• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to restore the crispy top.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar, Havarti, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.

Can I substitute heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or milk with butter for a lighter version.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead, refrigerate it, and bake when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to slice the potatoes?

Using a mandoline slicer ensures even slices for uniform cooking.

How can I avoid watery gratin?

Ensure the potatoes are well-coated in the sauce and bake them covered to prevent moisture loss.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing, especially with the creamy sauce.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with roasted meats like chicken, beef, or lamb.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a creamier texture.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, try adding layers of spinach, mushrooms, or leeks for variety.

How do I prevent the top from burning?

Bake covered for the first 40 minutes, then uncover to allow the cheese to brown without burning.

Conclusion

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is the perfect comfort food dish—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. With a golden, crispy top and tender layers of potatoes, it’s the ultimate side dish to accompany any meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

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Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin are a comforting and indulgent dish made with thinly sliced potatoes, creamy roasted garlic sauce, and a mix of melted cheeses. This French-inspired side dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners, featuring a golden, crispy top with tender potatoes beneath.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 8–9 medium starchy potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 head of garlic, top cut off
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/3 tsp dried)
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided)
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives for garnish

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Instructions

• Roast Garlic:
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt. Wrap in foil and roast for 30 minutes until soft and golden. Let cool.
• Prepare Potatoes:
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Peel and thinly slice potatoes, preferably using a mandoline for evenness. Arrange slices upright in layers in the dish.
• Make Creamy Sauce:
• In a saucepan, heat cream, milk, butter, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir in the roasted garlic paste. Simmer until combined.
• Assemble and Bake:
• Pour the creamy mixture over the potatoes. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil, top with shredded cheese, and bake uncovered for 30 more minutes until golden and tender.

Notes

• Can substitute Gruyère with other melting cheeses like cheddar.
• Make ahead: Assemble up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.