Three-Cheese Au Gratin Potatoes

Three-cheese au gratin potatoes are a delicious and comforting dish that combines the creamy goodness of cheese with tender slices of potatoes. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or simply as a hearty side dish for any meal. Cheesy, creamy, and loaded with flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want in your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Three-Cheese Au Gratin Potatoes

You’ll fall in love with this dish for its rich and creamy texture, enhanced by three different cheeses. The combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a delightful flavor profile that complements the savory caramelized onions and tender potatoes. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that makes an impressive side that everyone will rave about.

How to Make Three-Cheese Au Gratin Potatoes

Creating this delicious three-cheese au gratin potatoes dish is simple and straightforward. Just follow these step-by-step instructions, and you will have a mouthwatering side dish in no time.

Ingredients:

4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups milk
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 large onion, thinly sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
In a greased baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes, half of the cheese sauce, and the caramelized onions. Repeat layers, finishing with the remaining cheese sauce and Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve Three-Cheese Au Gratin Potatoes

Three-cheese au gratin potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of main dishes. Serve them alongside grilled chicken, beef roast, or even a vegetarian main dish. They also make a fantastic addition to a holiday spread. For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a side salad to balance the richness of the cheese.

How to Store Three-Cheese Au Gratin Potatoes

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. When you are ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk to maintain the creamy texture.

Tips to Make Three-Cheese Au Gratin Potatoes Perfect

Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for au gratin because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture.
Slice Thinly: For even cooking, ensure you slice the potatoes uniformly. A mandoline slicer can help achieve this.
Customize the Cheese: Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preference. Gruyere or fontina can add a unique flavor.
Don’t Skip the Caramelization: Caramelizing the onions deepens their flavor and adds sweetness that balances the dish.

Flavor Variations

This recipe is highly versatile. Here are some flavor variations you may want to try:

Add Vegetables: Incorporate veggies like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for an extra nutritious boost.
Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of nutmeg for added warmth.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some pepper jack cheese or add jalapenos for a spicy twist.

Pro Tips for Success

Layer Smartly: Distributing the cheese sauce evenly between layers helps ensure that every bite is cheesy and creamy.
Foil Coverage: Cover the dish with foil for the first half of baking to prevent burning while ensuring the potatoes cook through.
Broil for Final Touch: If you like a crispy top layer, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time to achieve that golden finish.

FAQs About Three-Cheese Au Gratin Potatoes

Can I prepare au gratin potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Assemble the layers and cover it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

Can I freeze three-cheese au gratin potatoes?
While it is possible to freeze this dish, the texture may change slightly upon reheating. If you choose to freeze it, make sure it is well covered and use it within a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

What should I do if the potatoes are not fully cooked?
If the potatoes are still firm after the baking time, cover the dish with foil and return it to the oven for another 10-15 minutes. This will help them become fork-tender.

Final Thoughts

Three-cheese au gratin potatoes are a scrumptious side dish that can elevate any meal. With an easy preparation process and endless variation possibilities, this recipe is bound to become a cherished favorite. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness that it brings to your table!

Three-Cheese Au Gratin Potatoes

A delicious and comforting dish combining creamy cheese with tender slices of potatoes, perfect for family gatherings and holidays.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 20

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 large potatoes, thinly sliced Russet or Yukon Gold work best.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups milk
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 large onion, thinly sliced Caramelized for sweetness.
To taste salt and pepper
For garnish fresh parsley Optional.

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Cooking

In a greased baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes, half of the cheese sauce, and the caramelized onions. Repeat layers, finishing with the remaining cheese sauce and Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk if necessary.

Keyword Au Gratin Potatoes, Cheesy Potatoes, comfort food, Potato Recipes, Side Dishes