Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is a delightful dish that combines layers of creamy, cheesy potatoes with the rich flavor of roasted garlic. This comforting recipe is perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. The golden-brown cheese on top and the tender potatoes underneath create a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Potatoes
• For the Creamy Mixture
• For Garnish
• How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Roast the Garlic
• Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
• Step 4: Slice the Potatoes
• Step 5: Layer the Potatoes
• Step 6: Make the Creamy Mixture
• Step 7: Add Roasted Garlic
• Step 8: Assemble
• Step 9: Bake
• Step 10: Add Cheese
• Step 11: Final Bake
• Step 12: Cool & Serve
• Step 13: Garnish
• How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin
• Pairing with Proteins
• Accompany with Salads
• Garnishes and Extras
• How to Perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin
• Best Side Dishes for Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin
• Reheating Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other types of cheese in Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?
• How do I prepare Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin ahead of time?
• What should I serve with Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?
• Can I make this recipe without cream?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of roasted garlic and creamy cheese makes every bite irresistible.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is bound to be a hit at any gathering or dinner party.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip this up without hassle.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside meats, salads, or even on its own as a light meal.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving.

Tools and Preparation

To make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin, you’ll need some essential tools that will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Mandoline slicer
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Saucepan
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Mandoline slicer: Ensures even potato slices for consistent cooking and texture.
• Baking dish: Provides ample space for layering the ingredients beautifully.
• Saucepan: Allows you to blend the creamy mixture effectively without boiling.

Ingredients

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
• 2 cups (about 220g) shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh chives

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for getting the perfect bake on your potatoes.

Step 2: Roast the Garlic

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

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

While the garlic roasts, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Set it aside for now.

Step 4: Slice the Potatoes

Peel and thinly slice your potatoes using a mandoline slicer. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Layer the Potatoes

Arrange stacks of potato slices upright in your greased baking dish. Continue layering until all your slices are used up.

Step 6: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a saucepan:
Combine heavy cream, milk, butter, half of the grated parmesan cheese, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Heat over medium heat until everything is well combined but do not let it boil.

Step 7: Add Roasted Garlic

Once your garlic has cooled slightly:
Squeeze out all cloves from their skins into a small bowl.
Mash them into a paste and stir this into your creamy mixture until well blended.

Step 8: Assemble

Pour your creamy mixture evenly over all potato layers in the baking dish. Cover tightly with kitchen foil.

Step 9: Bake

Place in preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes covered.

Step 10: Add Cheese

Remove foil and sprinkle shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese along with remaining parmesan on top.

Step 11: Final Bake

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

Step 12: Cool & Serve

Once done baking:
* Remove from oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Step 13: Garnish

Finish off by garnishing with fresh chives before serving. Enjoy your delicious Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin!

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

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

Pairing with Proteins

• Grilled Chicken – The creamy texture of the potatoes complements the smoky flavor of grilled chicken.
• Roast Beef – A classic pairing, the richness of roast beef balances well with the cheesy potatoes.
• Baked Salmon – The lightness of salmon contrasts nicely with the hearty potatoes, creating a satisfying plate.

Accompany with Salads

• Caesar Salad – The crispness of romaine and creamy dressing add freshness alongside the potatoes.
• Mixed Greens – A simple salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish.
• Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw provides a delightful texture contrast to the smooth potatoes.

Garnishes and Extras

• Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle some parsley or dill on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream can enhance the creaminess and add a tangy note.

How to Perfect Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

To achieve the best texture and flavor in your Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin, consider these tips:

• Use starchy potatoes – They create a creamy texture that holds up well during baking.
• Slice potatoes evenly – Aim for uniform thickness for consistent cooking; a mandoline slicer works wonders.
• Roast garlic until golden – This brings out its sweetness, adding depth to your dish.
• Don’t skip resting time – Allowing the dish to cool slightly before serving helps it set better for easy serving.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin makes for an indulgent side. Here are some delightful options to serve alongside this dish:

1. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a fresh crunch.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots – Sweet and savory carrots complement the flavors beautifully.
3. Sautéed Green Beans – Crisp green beans provide a lovely texture contrast.
4. Garlic Bread – For garlic lovers, this bread enhances the overall garlic experience!
5. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon – The smokiness of bacon pairs well with creamy potatoes.
6. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a refreshing balance to rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the garlic: Roasting garlic too long can make it bitter. Keep an eye on it and aim for soft, golden cloves.
• Not greasing the dish: Failing to grease your baking dish can lead to sticking. Always use butter or cooking spray for easy serving.
• Uneven potato slices: Slicing potatoes unevenly can result in some being undercooked while others are overdone. Use a mandoline for consistent thickness.
• Skipping seasoning: Forgetting to season layers of potatoes with salt and pepper can make your dish bland. Season each layer for better flavor.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the potatoes au gratin immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of cheese in Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

Yes! You can substitute Gruyère or mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or even a vegan cheese alternative for different flavors.

How do I prepare Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin ahead of time?

You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What should I serve with Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin?

These potatoes pair well with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make this recipe without cream?

Yes! For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or plant-based cream alternatives like coconut cream or almond milk.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as a side dish alongside any meal, you can customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or different cheeses. Give it a try and enjoy its creamy goodness!