Melt-in-Your-Mouth Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe

This Potatoes Au Gratin is going to change your life, so brace yourself! What we have here are layers upon layers of golden-baked potatoes, bacon, and two kinds of gooey, melty cheese. Those meals that make your tummy feel all warm and fuzzy inside? Well, look at this. Until you try this cheesy, creamy side dish, you won't realize how much you're missing out on. 

It doesn't matter if it's for a special holiday dinner or just your regular Tuesday; this dish will be a hit! 

Au Gratin vs. Scalloped Potatoes: What’s the Difference?

Both scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes are starchy side dishes that are rich, creamy, and full of potato flavor. To be clear, though, they are distinct: Thinner slices of potato are often used for au gratin dishes than for scalloped ones. Also, scalloped potatoes usually don't include cheese (although you can find cheese in some modern versions.)

Ingredients

• 1/2 kg of potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 300 grams of bacon
• 300 grams of mozzarella cheese
• 200 grams of Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 250 ml of heavy cream
• 6 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Fresh parsley 
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Potatoes Au Gratin?

Step 1: Toss Those Potatoes

Start by slicing up your potatoes nice and thin. Think delicate little coins that will soak up every bit of flavor. In a big bowl, mix those slices with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. This isn’t just about coating the potatoes; it’s about infusing them with flavor before they even hit the oven. Trust me, it’s worth the extra step.

Step 2: Layer It Up!

Grease up a baking dish (so nothing sticks and you get every last cheesy bite), and start layering. Potatoes first, then a layer of mozzarella cheese, followed by some crispy bacon. Repeat this delicious trio until you’ve got about three layers going. We’re building something special here, folks. It’s like creating a cheesy potato lasagna, and I’m so here for it.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Goodness

Now, grab another bowl and whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper. This is the secret sauce that ties the whole dish together. Pour it evenly over your layered potatoes, letting it seep down, and coat everything in creamy, eggy bliss. This is what transforms your humble potatoes into something unforgettable.

Step 4: Top with Parmesan and Bake

Sprinkle a generous layer of Parmesan cheese over the top—this is your crispy, cheesy crown. Cover the whole dish with foil to keep things steamy and bake at 200°C (about 400°F) for 40 minutes. Then, ditch the foil and let the top get golden and bubbly for 10-15 more minutes. This is the home stretch, where the cheese gets crispy, the sauce thickens, and the whole thing becomes irresistible.

Step 5: Serve It Up Hot

Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for just a minute or two (if you can stand it) before diving in. Sprinkle on some fresh parsley for a bit of brightness, and then it’s time to dig in. Each scoop reveals layers of soft, cheesy potato goodness that are almost too good to be true. It’s creamy, cheesy, and got that little hit of bacon—you’ll be going back for seconds, thirds, and… well, no judgment here.

Zulay's Expert Tips for Perfect Potatoes Au Gratin

• Thin Slices, Always: Use a mandoline if you have one to get those perfectly even slices. It helps everything cook evenly and makes for that perfect tender texture.
• Cheese Layering is Key: Don’t skimp on the cheese. The mozzarella and Parmesan layers make this dish feel so luxurious.
• Season Generously: Potatoes need a good amount of seasoning, so don’t be shy with the salt and pepper!

Zulay's Final Thoughts

So there you have it—the Melt-in-your-mouth Potatoes Au Gratin recipe. It satisfies all the comfort food cravings: cheesy, crispy, creamy. This is the dish for you if you want to wow guests, reward yourself, or simply liven up your regular meals.

Did you give it a go yet? How was it? Post a comment telling me how it worked out for you; I'm really curious. And please, spread the love for this cheesy magic. If you want us to see your amazing culinary creations, post them on social media and tag @ZulayKitchen with the hashtag #kitchenhappiness.

Seize your fork, plunge in, and savor every mouthwatering bite. For the simple reason that when faced with potatoes, one must prepare Potatoes Au Gratin.

FAQs About Potatoes Au Gratin

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella and Parmesan?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan give this dish melty and crispy, you can swap in other cheeses like Gruyère, cheddar, or even Gouda for a different flavor twist. Use cheeses that melt well and have a nice flavor kick to keep that rich, creamy texture.

How do I make sure my potatoes cook evenly?

The key to evenly cooked potatoes is slicing them thinly and uniformly. Using a mandoline slicer is the easiest way to get consistent slices, but you can also use a sharp knife and take your time. Aim for slices about 1/8-inch thick to ensure they cook through perfectly.

Can I add other ingredients to the dish, like onions or garlic?

Definitely! This dish is super versatile. You can sauté onions or garlic and add them between the layers of potatoes for extra flavor. Other great add-ins include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or thinly sliced bell peppers for a pop of color and taste.

What if I don’t have heavy cream? Can I use something else?

Heavy cream gives the dish its signature richness, but if you don’t have any on hand, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and a little extra cheese. You won’t get the same creamy texture, but it will still be delicious!

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 175°C (350°F) until heated. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the oven will help retain that crispy top.

How do I prevent the dish from being too greasy?

Drain the bacon well on paper towels after cooking and before adding it to the layers to keep your dish from getting greasy. If needed, you can also blot any excess oil from the top before serving. Using quality cheeses and avoiding extra oil will help keep the dish perfectly rich without being overly oily.

What should I serve with Potatoes Au Gratin?

Potatoes Au Gratin is rich and hearty, so it pairs beautifully with lighter mains like roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a fresh green salad. It’s also fantastic for holiday meals, paired with turkey, ham, or beef.