Roasted Garlic Potatoes Au Gratin is a comforting baked side dish made with tender potatoes, roasted garlic, and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or holiday meals. The recipe is simple to prepare and delivers big, cozy flavor with everyday ingredients.

Why You’ll Love It

This dish has soft, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes layered with creamy sauce and golden melted cheese. Roasting the garlic adds deep flavor without any harsh bite. It’s easy to assemble and always earns compliments at the table.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients)

Potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet) – Create a tender, hearty base
Garlic cloves – Roasted for mild, rich flavor
Olive oil – Used for roasting garlic
Butter – Adds richness to the sauce
Heavy cream – Creates a smooth, creamy texture
Milk – Lightens the cream sauce
All-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce
Salt – Enhances flavor
Black pepper – Adds gentle warmth
Shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Gruyère) – Melts into a golden topping
Fresh herbs (optional) – Add freshness and color

Tools for This Recipe

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Saucepan
Baking dish
Knife
Cutting board
Aluminum foil

How to Make It (Step-by-Step)

Step Block 1 — Prep & Sauce

Preheat the oven and lightly grease a baking dish.
Roast garlic with olive oil until soft and fragrant, then mash.
Peel and thinly slice the potatoes evenly.
In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour.
Slowly add milk and cream, whisking until smooth and thickened.
Stir in roasted garlic, salt, and pepper.

Step Block 2 — Assemble & Bake

Layer sliced potatoes evenly in the baking dish.
Pour creamy garlic sauce over the potatoes.
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Cover with foil and bake until potatoes are tender.
Remove foil and bake until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let rest briefly before serving.

Helpful Tips

Slice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Covering the dish first helps soften the potatoes fully.
Let the dish rest before serving so the sauce sets slightly.

Substitutions & Variations

Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter version.
Add sliced onions between potato layers for extra flavor.
Try a blend of cheeses for deeper taste.
Add fresh thyme or parsley for a herby finish.

What to Serve With It

Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad. It’s also a great addition to holiday meals or special gatherings.

Leftovers & Storage

Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
Room temperature: Serve warm; do not leave out long
Freezer: Not recommended, as the sauce may separate

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate, then bake before serving.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture.

How do I know it’s done?
A knife should slide easily through the potatoes.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, though freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly.

Conclusion

Roasted Garlic Potatoes Au Gratin is a creamy, comforting side dish that fits any occasion. With tender potatoes and rich garlic flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Full Recipe