# Potatoes au Gratin: A Cheesy Treat
Potatoes au gratin is a timeless recipe that blends the satisfying flavors of potatoes, onions, and cheese into a sumptuous, creamy casserole. This dish is ideal for family celebrations, festive dinners, or as a delightful complement to any entrée. The layers of thinly cut potatoes and onions are cloaked in a luxurious cheese sauce, baked until golden and bubbling, making it an enticing addition to any meal.
## What Sets Potatoes au Gratin Apart?
While often likened to scalloped potatoes, the fundamental distinction lies in the sauce. Scalloped potatoes commonly feature a white sauce, whereas potatoes au gratin presents a cheese sauce that infuses a rich, savory essence. This cheesy alteration enhances the dish, transforming it into a favorite for cheese aficionados.
### Flavor Profile
The fusion of potatoes, onions, and cheese results in a pleasing blend of tastes. The cheese sauce, typically crafted with robust cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan, contributes depth and richness, while the onions bring a mild sweetness that balances the dish.
### Skill Level
Creating potatoes au gratin entails multiple steps, such as slicing the potatoes and onions and making the cheese sauce. Though it may take some time, the procedure is clear-cut and feasible for cooks of all experience levels.
### Recommended Tools
To achieve perfectly thin potato slices, think about utilizing a mandoline slicer. This device not only reduces preparation time but also guarantees consistent thickness, which is vital for even cooking.
### Budget-Friendly Tips
Feel free to use any type of cheese for this dish, but choosing bold-flavored options will produce the best outcomes. Cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan are outstanding selections that amplify the overall taste without exceeding your budget.
### Time-Saving Tips
If you’re short on time, you can prepare the dish in advance or utilize a microwave to expedite the cooking process. Check the recipe notes for tips on how to cut down on cooking time.
## Ingredient Tips for Potatoes au Gratin
– **Choosing Potatoes**: Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red-skinned varieties are perfect for this recipe, as they maintain their structure during cooking. While russet potatoes can be utilized, they are starchier and may disintegrate.
– **Onions**: Finely sliced onions enhance the dish’s flavor. For a gentler taste, sauté the onions in butter prior to layering them in the casserole.
– **Cheese**: Opt for bold-flavored cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan. Gruyère can be exchanged with provolone or Swiss cheese for a similar flavor profile.
– **Sauce**: The cheese sauce is made with a roux of butter and flour, blended with milk and shredded cheese, forming a creamy foundation that holds the dish together.
## How to Create Potatoes au Gratin
Here’s a brief overview of the steps to whip up this tasty dish:
1. **Prep**: Thinly cut the potatoes and onions.
2. **Sauce**: Create the cheese sauce in a saucepan.
3. **Assemble**: Layer the potato and onion slices in a casserole dish.
4. **Bake**: Cook until the potatoes turn tender and the sauce is bubbly.
### Detailed Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and slice the potatoes into ⅛-inch thin pieces. Cut the onion as thin as you can.
3. Season the potato and onion slices with salt and pepper, then stack them in a greased casserole dish.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter and flour, cooking for 2-3 minutes. Stir in mustard powder, salt, pepper, and milk, whisking until thick and bubbling. Mix in the cheese until fully melted.
5. Pour the cheese sauce over the layered potatoes and onions, making sure it seeps between the layers. Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes until lightly browned and the potatoes are fully cooked. Allow to cool for 15 minutes before serving.
## Make Ahead and Storage Suggestions
Potatoes au gratin can be assembled up to 24 hours prior. Ensure the cheese sauce completely covers the potatoes to avoid browning. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit out for at least 30 minutes prior, and you may need to add 10-20 minutes to the baking time.
Enhancing this dish with leftover ham or other proteins can make it a versatile choice for any meal.
## Conclusion
Potatoes au gratin is a cozy and delectable dish that is sure to impress your family and guests. With its cheesy richness and creamy texture, it’s an ideal side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a festive celebration or a casual get-together,