Lori Taylor is the Founder & CEO of The Produce Moms. For ten years she sold fresh produce to over 300 grocery stores throughout the United States, and today she is fully focused on working with the produce supply chain, media, and government to increase fresh produce access & consumption in the US and around the globe.
These au gratin potatoes are a fan favorite around here! The creamy cheese sauce, plus the fork tender potatoes allow this classic side dish to shine. It is perfect for holidays or anytime you need a delicious, vegetarian side!
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°. Prepare your cast iron skillet, round baking dish or casserole dish with butter.
Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
Step 2: Prepare the potatoes: Evenly slice the red and gold potatoes (you can use a mandolin slicer – about 1/8-inch thick).
Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
Step 3: Make the sauce: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Once the butter has completely melted, add in the flour and whisk. All the flour will cook off after 2-3 minutes. Then, add the seasonings and milk, whisking until thick, smooth and bubbling. Finally , turn off the heat and add in the cheese. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
Step 4: Build your flower tart by placing potatoes all around the edge with about 1/3 of each potato overlaying the one before (alternate red and gold). Once the first row is complete, continue to work toward the center of the dish, overlapping each slice. You will want the slices to be upright, so you can get the best visual appearance.
Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
Step 5: Pour the cheese sauce on top of the potatoes.
Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
Step 6: Bake – Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for about 30 minutes or until the top begins to brown.
Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
Traditional Version Step 5 – Layer – place about a third of your potatoes on the bottom of your casserole dish. Layer with the cream sauce and repeat. You want the top layer to have sauce. Ensure that all the potatoes are covered in the cream sauce, otherwise they will brown quicker and potentially burn. Step 6 – Cover and bake at 400° for 30-35 minutes. Remove the foil and allow to bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes