Hearty Herb & Cheese Au Gratin Potatoes

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour 15 min
🍽 Serves: 8
★★★★★
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Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. Hearty Herb & Cheese Au Gratin Potatoes blend creamy, cheesy goodness with aromatic herbs, making it a perfect side for any main course or a standout dish on its own.

Ingredients for Hearty Herb & Cheese Au Gratin Potatoes

Russet potatoes are your go-to for this dish because they’re starchy, which helps create a creamy texture. Heavy cream is key for richness and helps the cheese melt smoothly. The blend of Gruyère, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheese gives a complex, savory flavor with a nice sharpness from the cheddar and a nutty finish from the Parmesan. Garlic boosts the flavor profile, while fresh thyme and rosemary introduce earthy, aromatic notes. A dash of nutmeg adds warmth, complementing the cream and cheese. Finally, a sprinkle of parsley at the end keeps it fresh and bright.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a mandoline slicer for even potato slices; it ensures they cook uniformly.
  • If your cream mixture seems too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
  • For a crispier top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end — but watch it closely!

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple, grilled steak or roast chicken. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. It's also an excellent addition to a holiday buffet, complementing turkey or ham.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, Yukon Golds are a good alternative if you prefer a creamier texture.
What if I don't have Gruyère cheese?
Gruyère can be substituted with Swiss cheese for a similar taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and bake as directed, then cool, cover, and refrigerate. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Hearty Herb & Cheese Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe Walkthrough

First, get your oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). While that warms up, grab a bit of butter and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish — you want those potatoes to slide out easily later.

Next, in a large saucepan, pour in the heavy cream, then toss in the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, nutmeg, and a few pinches of salt and pepper. Set it over medium heat and bring it just to a simmer. You’re looking to infuse the cream with all those wonderful flavors.

Now, grab your prepared baking dish and start layering. Lay down a flat layer of your thinly sliced potatoes. Pour some of your fragrant cream mixture over this first layer. Now, sprinkle on a blend of the Gruyère, cheddar, and Parmesan. Repeat these layers, ensuring you finish with a glorious layer of cheese right on top.

Once layered to perfection, cover the dish with foil and place it in your preheated oven. Let it bake covered for about 45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes. You’re aiming for a golden, bubbly top.

When it’s done, let the dish rest for about 10 minutes. This will help everything set and make serving easier. Before you dig in, sprinkle some chopped parsley over the top for a fresh finish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich layers of cheese and cream with a hint of nutmeg.
  • Fresh herbs add depth and aroma.
  • Simple ingredients, but a gourmet taste.
  • Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
3 cups heavy cream
2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup chopped parsley for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.
2. In a large saucepan, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour a portion of the cream mixture over the potatoes. Sprinkle with a mix of Gruyère, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses.
4. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
5. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.

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