Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes (The Best Thanksgiving Potatoes EVER!)

Name: Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes (The Best Thanksgiving Potatoes EVER!)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 3 lb potatoes, thinly sliced; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your holiday feast with these mouthwatering Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes. Creamy layers of thinly sliced potatoes are smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce, then baked until golden and bubbly. This crowd-pleasing side dish is perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations, adding warmth and comfort to your dinner table.

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2025-11-26T15:09:32.036Z

These Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes have been a staple at our Thanksgiving table for years. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make them irresistible!

The Perfect Side Dish for Any Occasion

Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are not just a Thanksgiving staple; they are the ultimate side dish for any festive occasion. Whether you are celebrating a holiday, hosting a family gathering, or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these potatoes bring a delightful warmth to the table. Their creamy consistency and rich flavors create an indulgent experience that complements any main course, from succulent roasted turkey to savory ham.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can personalize it with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or mozzarella, for a unique twist. Additionally, adding a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor even further, making this dish a personal signature of your culinary creativity.

Tips for Perfecting Your Au Gratin Potatoes

When preparing your Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes, the choice of potatoes plays a significant role. Opt for starchy varieties, like Russets, which lend a creamy texture after baking. Thinly slicing your potatoes ensures even cooking, allowing them to absorb the delicious cheese sauce while achieving that perfectly tender consistency.

Don't forget to let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking. This gives the cheese time to set, making it easier to serve and resulting in beautiful, layered portions that are both visually appealing and equally delicious. A fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley adds the perfect pop of color and freshness on top.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the best features of this Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes recipe is its make-ahead capability. You can prepare the dish in advance by layering the potatoes and cheese sauce in a baking dish, then covering it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Simply refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, making your holiday prep less stressful.

When you're ready to bake, just remove the dish from the refrigerator, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, and bake as directed. This ensures that the creamy, cheesy layers are just as decadent and flavorful as if they had been freshly prepared, allowing you more time to enjoy the festivities with your loved ones.

Ingredients

3 lb potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and layer half of the potatoes in the bottom.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, then whisk in the flour. Gradually add heavy cream and milk, whisking until smooth. Stir in cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.

Layer and Bake

Pour half the cheese sauce over the first layer of potatoes, add the remaining potatoes, then pour the rest of the cheese sauce on top. Bake for 1 hour until golden and bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information

Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are a rich and comforting side dish. A typical serving provides a good source of carbohydrates from the potatoes and calcium from the cheese and cream. However, it's worth noting that they can be high in calories and saturated fats due to the creamy sauce and cheese.

To make these potatoes a bit lighter, consider substituting some of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or using a combination of cheeses to reduce fat without compromising flavor. You could also include additional vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition, turning this indulgent dish into a more balanced option.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers of this delightful dish, you're in luck! Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture and flavor, it's recommended to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave, as the oven will help restore the creamy consistency.

Simply cover the dish with aluminum foil and reheat at a low temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) until warmed through. This gentle reheating method will help keep the potatoes from drying out, allowing you to savor the delicious flavors as if they were just made.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes. They make a perfect accompaniment to a beautifully roasted turkey, glazed ham, or succulent beef roast. The creamy flavors of the potatoes help to cut through the richness of these meats, creating a well-rounded meal.

For a complete holiday feast, consider serving them alongside a fresh, crisp salad and your favorite roasted vegetables. This balance of flavors and textures will elevate your dining experience, making your holiday gathering unforgettable. Add a glass of wine to the mix, and you have a meal that guests will rave about long after the last bite is gone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

→ What type of potatoes are best to use?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for au gratin because they hold their shape well.