If you are searching for a rich, comforting, and utterly irresistible side dish, this Garlic Parmesan Potatoes au Gratin Recipe is going to sweep you off your feet. Layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes bathed in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce and nestled beneath a golden crust of mozzarella and parmesan cheese create a harmony of flavors that’s impossible to resist. Perfectly creamy yet satisfyingly cheesy, this dish brings a cozy warmth to any meal and will undoubtedly become your go-to for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A shiny silver pot sits on a stove with a smooth, yellow mixture inside. The mixture is creamy and light with small black specks sprinkled on the surface. A silver whisk is stirring the liquid, with its shiny wires partially submerged. The background shows the stove burners blurred out, with some steam gently rising from the pot. The whole scene is on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this Garlic Parmesan Potatoes au Gratin Recipe requires a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering its signature creamy texture and bold flavor. From the buttery garlic roux to the melty cheeses and tender potatoes, every component adds its unique touch to the final masterpiece.

Butter (4 tablespoons): Provides a rich base for the garlic sauce and helps create the perfect roux for thickening.
Garlic (1 tablespoon minced or 4 large cloves): Infuses the sauce with its warm, aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish.
All-purpose flour (4 tablespoons): Helps thicken the cream sauce to silky perfection without lumps.
Milk (4 cups): The creamy liquid foundation that brings the sauce together; choose skim, 2%, or full-fat based on your preference.
Chicken bouillon powder or Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Adds a savory depth that enhances the cheese and garlic flavors.
Salt (a pinch): Balances and brightens all the other tastes carefully.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Offers just a subtle kick that rounds out the flavor profile.
Yukon Gold potatoes or Russets (2 1/2 pounds, peeled and sliced): Thin, consistent slices ensure even cooking and that silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Mozzarella cheese (2 cups shredded): Melts beautifully for that gooey, stretchy layer we all love.
Parmesan cheese (3/4 cup freshly grated): Brings a sharp, nutty flavor and creates the iconic golden crust.
Fresh chives (1 tablespoon, divided): Adds a fresh, mild onion note and a pop of color as a garnish.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Potatoes au Gratin Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) — this temperature brings out the perfect baking environment to cook the potatoes evenly while melting the cheeses. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure your gratin doesn’t stick and easily slides onto your serving plate later.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Roux

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it just until fragrant, about 30 seconds — this subtle step wakes up its full flavor but keeps its sweetness intact. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly; this creates a smooth roux that’s the foundation for your creamy sauce.

Step 3: Whisk in the Milk and Seasonings

Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly add the milk ¼ cup at a time, whisking continuously between additions to avoid lumps. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, letting it thicken slightly to a velvety consistency. Stir in chicken bouillon powder or salt, a pinch of salt if needed, and black pepper to taste. Once everything is incorporated, remove the sauce from heat and set it aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Time to build your gratin masterpiece. Arrange half of the potato slices in an even single layer on the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the creamy garlic sauce over the potatoes, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheeses on top. Repeat this layering with the remaining potatoes, sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan for a dreamy, stacked effect.

Step 5: Bake Until Tender and Golden

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap moisture so the potatoes cook until just tender, about 40 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the top to turn golden brown and bubbling with cheesy goodness. For an extra crisp cheese crust, broil the gratin for 2 to 3 minutes—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn. Finish by sprinkling fresh chives on top for a beautiful and tasty garnish.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Potatoes au Gratin Recipe

The image shows a white rectangular baking dish filled with a creamy potato gratin. The top layer is golden brown and bubbly, indicating melted cheese baked to a light crisp. Beneath the crust, thick, creamy slices of pale yellow potatoes are visible, coated in sauce with strings of melted cheese stretching from the dish to a wooden spoon lifting a scoop. The dish sits on a white marbled surface, and a woman's hand is gently holding the dish handle in the corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped chives or finely minced parsley add a fresh burst of color and a subtle onion brightness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy richness. A light dusting of extra parmesan cheese on top while serving can also add an elegant final touch that’s sure to impress.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Parmesan Potatoes au Gratin Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like herb-roasted chicken or juicy steak. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the hearty and cheesy potatoes with fresh, crunchy textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your potatoes au gratin straight from a rustic ceramic casserole dish for that cozy, homey feeling or portion individual servings into ramekins for a more elegant twist at dinner parties. Adding a drizzle of browned butter over each serving can also take this dish to an indulgent new level.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Potatoes au Gratin Recipe store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container to maintain freshness and moisture.

Freezing

To freeze, prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover tightly with plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. The gratin can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready, bake covered from frozen, adding additional cooking time until the potatoes are soft and the cheese is bubbly.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers by placing them in a 350°F oven uncovered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. For extra crispness, broil the top briefly toward the end. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the potatoes less creamy and the cheese rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

You can, but Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are preferred for their balance of starch and moisture, which results in creamy, tender slices that hold their shape without turning mushy.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute dairy milk with unsweetened plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter and cheese alternatives, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different from the original.

How thin should I slice the potatoes?

Slice potatoes about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Too thick will result in uneven cooking and a less creamy texture, while too thin may cause them to break down too much during baking.

Can I prepare this dish a day in advance?

Absolutely! Assemble the entire dish, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, allow about 10 extra minutes of cooking time since the potatoes and sauce will start cold.

What’s the secret to that perfectly golden top?

After baking covered, removing the foil and baking uncovered allows the cheese to brown and crisp up. Finishing with a quick broil ensures a bubbly, golden, and flavorful crust every time.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Potatoes au Gratin Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, flavor, and cheesy delight to your table. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish will fill your kitchen with such inviting aromas and leave everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your permanent rotation!