Creamy au Gratin Potatoes

Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe | USA | Ingredients: onions, cream of mushroom, cream cheese, hash browns, cheddar

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Creamy au Gratin Potatoes is a classic comfort food dish that combines tender potatoes with a rich and creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a holiday gathering.

History

The origins of au gratin potatoes can be traced back to French cuisine, where the term "au gratin" refers to a dish that is topped with breadcrumbs or cheese and then baked until golden and crispy. The addition of cream and cheese to the potatoes creates a decadent and indulgent side dish that is sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of frozen chopped onions
1 can of cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup
1 package of cream cheese, cubed (3 oz (85 g))
3 to 4 cups of frozen Southern-style hash browns or potatoes (O'Brien, Ore Ida)
0.33 cup of grated cheddar cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Grease a 1 qt (946 ml) casserole dish.
In a 1 qt (946 ml) pan, cook the frozen onion over medium heat until tender.
Stir in the soup and cream cheese cubes.
Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and hot.
In the greased casserole dish, layer the frozen potatoes and hot cream sauce alternately, ending with a sauce layer.
Cover the dish and bake for 45 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Parmesan, for a unique twist.
Mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the onions until they are tender before adding the soup and cream cheese to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce.

- Layering the potatoes and sauce in the casserole dish ensures that each bite is filled with flavor.

- For a crispy topping, broil the dish for a few minutes after baking to brown the cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy au Gratin Potatoes are the perfect side dish for roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham. Serve with a side of green beans or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Layering the potatoes and sauce ensures that each bite is creamy and flavorful. Be sure to cover the dish while baking to prevent the potatoes from drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup as a substitute. You can also use fresh onions instead of frozen.

Make Ahead Tips

Creamy au Gratin Potatoes can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap and bake when ready.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Creamy au Gratin Potatoes pair well with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light beer. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Creamy au Gratin Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Creamy au Gratin Potatoes contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Creamy au Gratin Potatoes contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Creamy au Gratin Potatoes contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Creamy au Gratin Potatoes contains approximately 6 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Creamy au Gratin Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese and cheddar cheese) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Creamy au Gratin Potatoes are a rich and indulgent side dish that is high in fat and calories. However, they are also a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Creamy au Gratin Potatoes are a delicious and indulgent side dish that is perfect for any occasion. With layers of tender potatoes and a rich and creamy sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Creamy au Gratin Potatoes. It was a rainy afternoon in the small town where I grew up, and I was visiting my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins. She was known throughout the neighborhood for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I always loved spending time in her kitchen, watching her work her magic.

That day, Mrs. Jenkins was making Creamy au Gratin Potatoes for her family's dinner. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was enveloped in the warm, comforting aroma of butter and cheese. Mrs. Jenkins was at the stove, stirring a pot of creamy sauce, while a casserole dish filled with sliced potatoes sat waiting on the counter.

I watched in awe as she layered the potatoes in the dish, pouring the sauce over each layer and sprinkling generous amounts of cheese on top. As she placed the dish in the oven to bake, she turned to me with a smile and said, "Would you like to learn how to make this recipe, dear?"

I eagerly nodded my head, and Mrs. Jenkins spent the rest of the afternoon teaching me the secrets of her Creamy au Gratin Potatoes. She explained that the key to a successful dish was in the sauce – a rich, velvety mixture of butter, flour, milk, and seasonings that would coat the potatoes and create a luscious, creamy texture.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, adapting it and adding my own special touches along the way. I have shared it with friends and family, who always rave about how delicious it is. And now, I am delighted to pass it on to you, my dear grandchildren, so that you may enjoy it as much as I have.

To make Creamy au Gratin Potatoes, you will need:

- 6-8 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

- 1/4 cup butter

- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

- 2 cups milk

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until smooth and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

3. Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook and stir until the mixture thickens and bubbles.

4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese until melted.

5. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.

6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender.

7. Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Let the Creamy au Gratin Potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

I hope you enjoy making and eating this recipe as much as I have over the years. Remember, the secret ingredient is always love – so cook with your heart, and your dishes will always turn out delicious. Happy cooking, my dears!