Name: Roasted Garlic Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: French-Inspired
Ingredients: 2½ lbs Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, thinly sliced; 1 whole head garlic; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh); ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional); 1½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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If you adore creamy, cheesy potato dishes with a rich depth of flavor, then this Roasted Garlic Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe is going to become one of your all-time favorites. Each tender, thin slice of potato is bathed in a luscious sauce featuring sweet, mellow roasted garlic and melted Gruyère cheese, culminating in a bubbling, golden crust that is pure comfort on a plate. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers elegance and warmth in every forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four whole yellow potatoes placed on a white marbled surface in the top left. To the right of the potatoes, there is a white plate with a pile of shredded yellow cheddar cheese. Below the potatoes, there is a clear glass measuring cup with milk, which is white and smooth in texture. Next to the measuring cup on the right, there is a small white bowl filled with creamy sauce that looks thick and light beige. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These simple but essential ingredients come together beautifully to create a harmonious blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. Their quality and balance ensure your Roasted Garlic Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe turns out irresistibly rich with just the right texture and aroma.

2½ lbs Yukon Gold or russet potatoes: Thinly sliced, these provide the creamy base with perfect buttery texture.
1 whole head garlic: Roasted until soft and sweet, it infuses the dish with its irresistible aroma.
1 tbsp olive oil: For roasting the garlic to bring out its deep, mellow flavor.
2 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth sauce base.
2 cups heavy cream: Crucial for that luxuriously creamy texture.
1 cup whole milk: Lightens the cream slightly, balancing richness.
1½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, salty finish to the dish.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the bright, creamy flavors.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds subtle warmth without overpowering.
½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh): A herbaceous note that complements the garlic perfectly.
¼ tsp nutmeg (optional): Adds a hint of warmth and depth, elevating the flavor complexity.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, then wrap it securely in foil. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes until the cloves are soft and caramelized. This slow roasting transforms the garlic into a sweet, mellow paste that becomes the heart and soul of your sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

After roasting, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Squeeze the softened garlic cloves from their skins directly into a bowl and mash into a smooth paste. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and then stir in the heavy cream, milk, roasted garlic paste, salt, pepper, thyme, and nutmeg. Warm gently, taking care not to let it boil. This mixture will envelop the potatoes in richness and fragrant goodness.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the dish. Pour half of the cream and garlic sauce evenly over the potatoes, then sprinkle with half of the shredded Gruyère and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese, creating an indulgent, multi-layered casserole that promises every bite to be packed with flavor.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven for 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes. This uncovered baking time allows the cheese on top to turn golden, bubbly, and irresistibly crisp, forming the signature crust that makes this Roasted Garlic Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe truly special. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to let everything set up beautifully.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe

The dish shows a white casserole dish with a creamy baked casserole inside, featuring a top layer of melted golden-yellow cheese with brown spots and green herb sprinkles. The casserole has at least two visible layers: a creamy white sauce layer with bits of pinkish meat mixed throughout and a softer, pale base layer underneath. A shiny metal spoon is lifting a portion of the dish, showing the soft, thick, and creamy texture with melted cheese on top and small bits of herbs and meat visible. The casserole dish rests on a colorful striped cloth on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To add a fresh, vibrant touch, sprinkle some finely chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top just before serving. The bright green not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing note that balances the creamy richness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan can also amplify the cheesy experience.

Side Dishes

This dish, while hearty on its own, pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like herb-crusted chicken, prime rib, or even glazed ham. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, offering a perfect balance on your plate. Don’t forget some steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for added texture and flavor contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, try serving this au gratin in individual ramekins, making it feel elegant and personalized. Another fun idea is to create a layered casserole buffet where guests can add their own garnishes, such as crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika, turning this classic recipe into a creative experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Roasted Garlic Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container or cover tightly with foil to preserve moisture and prevent it from drying out. When ready, you’ll find the flavors have melded even more beautifully, making reheated portions just as satisfying.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze it before baking if you want to prepare in advance. Use a freezer-safe container and label with the date. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then proceed to bake as directed, allowing a bit of extra time for the dish to come to temperature throughout.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, until heated through. Removing the foil for the last 5 minutes helps revive a crispy top layer. For individual servings, microwaving works, but you might lose some of the crisp texture on top, so it’s best when reheated in the oven if possible.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Gruyère?

Absolutely! Swiss or white cheddar cheese make wonderful substitutes if Gruyère isn’t available. They melt well and still provide that creamy, cheesy flavor, though Gruyère offers a slightly nuttier and more complex taste.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?

You can leave the skins on if you prefer a rustic texture and more nutrients, especially if using Yukon Gold potatoes with thin skins. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly before slicing to remove any dirt.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?

This traditional au gratin uses dairy for that creamy richness, but you can experiment with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream and vegan cheese. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be different, but it can still be a tasty dish.

What’s the best way to slice potatoes evenly?

Using a mandoline slicer makes slicing quick and ensures even thickness, which is key for uniform cooking. If you don’t have one, take your time with a sharp knife to slice as consistently as possible, about 1/8 inch thick.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Certainly! Rosemary, sage, or even a pinch of smoked paprika can add wonderful depth. Just be mindful to balance the flavors so the roasted garlic remains the star.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the combination of tender potatoes, rich cream, melted cheese, and that irresistible roasted garlic aroma, making this Roasted Garlic Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe a standout side no matter the occasion. It’s comfort food elevated to a level that’s both approachable and impressive, perfect for sharing around the dinner table. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.