Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then look no further than Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin. This delightful recipe has a special place in my heart because it combines the rich, savory taste of roasted garlic with layers of tender potatoes, all enveloped in creamy goodness. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet easy to prepare, or for family gatherings where everyone will be fighting over the last serving!

Nothing beats the satisfaction of pulling a bubbling, cheesy dish from the oven and watching faces light up at the first bite. Whether it’s autumn or winter, this dish is truly a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to keep in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: The combination of roasted garlic and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that feels like a warm hug.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike will devour these delicious potatoes, making it a fantastic addition to any meal.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven just before mealtime to save yourself some stress.
• Versatile side: Pair these potatoes with almost any main dish for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome components that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin:

For the Potatoes

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

For the Creamy 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

Variations

One of the beauties of Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add veggies: Slice up some zucchini or add spinach layers between the potatoes for an extra nutritional boost.
• Cheese varieties: Swap out Gruyère for sharp cheddar or smoked gouda to give your gratin a unique twist.
• Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for varied flavors.
• Spicy kick: Add some finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat!

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roasting garlic transforms its pungent flavor into something sweet and mellow. Cut off the top of the garlic head to expose those beautiful cloves. Wrap it in aluminum foil after drizzling with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Roast it for about 30 minutes until soft and golden. Once done, let it cool before handling.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While the garlic roasts, take a moment to grease your 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with butter. This step ensures that your delicious creation won’t stick when it’s time to serve.

Step 3: Slice Those Potatoes

Peel and thinly slice your starchy potatoes using a mandoline slicer if you have one—it makes this task so much easier! Aim for even slices so they cook uniformly throughout.

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes

Now comes the fun part! Start stacking those potato slices upright in layers within your prepared baking dish. It might feel like you’re building potato architecture, but trust me—it’s worth it!

Step 5: Make Your Creamy Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, butter, half of the grated parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, along with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is melted and well combined—this creamy mixture will bring all those flavors together beautifully.

Step 6: Incorporate Roasted Garlic

Once your garlic is roasted and slightly cooled, squeeze out those soft cloves into a bowl and mash them into a paste. Stir this fragrant paste into your creamy mixture until fully integrated—this is where the magic happens!

Step 7: Combine Everything

Pour that luscious creamy mixture evenly over your layered potatoes in the baking dish. Cover tightly with kitchen foil; this helps steam them perfectly during baking.

Step 8: Bake Away!

Pop the covered dish into your preheated oven for about 40 minutes. This initial bake allows all those flavors to meld while ensuring that potatoes are tender.

Step 9: Add Cheese & Finish Baking

After 40 minutes are up, remove the foil carefully—watch out for steam! Sprinkle shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese on top along with the remaining parmesan cheese. Return it to the oven uncovered for another 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 10: Cool & Garnish

Once done baking, let your delectable creation cool for just a few minutes before serving. Finish with freshly chopped chives on top—they add color and freshness!

Enjoy every bite of these Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin! They are sure to become a cherished favorite at your table too.

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Creating the perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is all about the little details. Here are some tips to elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use starchy potatoes: Opting for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds will give you a creamier texture and better flavor absorption, ensuring each bite is deliciously rich.

• Don’t skip the roasting: Roasting the garlic not only softens it but also enhances its natural sweetness, adding depth to your creamy sauce that can’t be achieved with raw garlic.

• Layer evenly: When stacking your potato slices, make sure they are spaced evenly. This helps them cook uniformly and avoids any undercooked sections that could detract from the overall experience.

• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to cool for a few minutes after baking helps the cheese set a bit, making it easier to serve and enjoy without everything sliding off the plate.

• Experiment with cheeses: While Gruyère and mozzarella are fantastic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a unique twist on flavor while maintaining that gooey texture we all love.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Presenting your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin can turn this comforting dish into a real showstopper at your dining table. Here are some ideas to make it shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both visual appeal and flavor.
• Crispy shallots: For an added crunch, top your gratin with crispy fried shallots. They bring an extra layer of flavor that complements the creamy potatoes beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed green beans: Their bright color and crispness contrast nicely with the rich gratin, making them a delightful addition to your plate.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the hearty flavors of the potatoes.
• Roasted seasonal vegetables: Seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots add wholesome nutrition and a variety of textures alongside your cheesy dish.
• Grilled chicken or fish: Pairing this gratin with lean protein such as grilled chicken or fish makes for a well-rounded meal that satisfies both heartiness and healthiness.

Enjoy sharing this delicious Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin recipe with family and friends! It’s sure to become a cherished favorite at every gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious comfort food throughout the week. You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it properly to maintain its delightful flavors.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Cut the potatoes into individual portions for easy reheating.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the potatoes au gratin in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

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

Can I make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin without cream?

Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream or coconut cream. Just ensure it has a similar consistency for best results.

How do I store leftover Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

To store leftovers, allow them to cool completely and then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for up to 3 days!

Can I freeze Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap portions tightly and freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw before reheating.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work wonderfully as they create a creamy texture when baked.

Can I add other vegetables to Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Definitely! Feel free to layer in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even thinly sliced zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin as much as I do! This recipe is not only a comforting side dish but also a wonderful way to impress friends and family at any gathering. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor—perfect for cozy dinners. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and joy!