Sassy & Savory Au Gratin Potatoes
Are you looking for a twist on a classic comfort food? These Sassy & Savory Au Gratin Potatoes are exactly what you need. With a flavorful, hot, and melty cheese sauce that has just the right amount of kick, these potatoes are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Sassy & Savory Au Gratin Potatoes
– Flavorful Twist: A new take on traditional au gratin potatoes with a sassy and savory cheese sauce.
– Hot and Melty: The perfect combination of gooey cheese and tender potatoes.
– Seasoned to Perfection: With a blend of spices and fresh onions, these potatoes are bursting with flavor.
– Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a potluck, holiday dinner, or a simple side dish, these au gratin potatoes are a versatile delight.
Ingredient Notes
– Potatoes: 4-5 large potatoes, peeled and sliced
– Onion: 1/2 onion, diced
– Butter: 3 tablespoons
– Flour: 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Seasonings: 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Milk: 2 cups
– Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1 1/2 cups shredded
How to Make Sassy & Savory Au Gratin Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
– Peel and slice the potatoes.
Step 2: Layer the Potatoes
– Butter a baking dish and layer the sliced potatoes.
– Sprinkle half of the diced onions over the potatoes.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
– Melt the butter in a saucepan and add the flour.
– Add the salt, pepper, cayenne, and garlic powder. Pour in the milk.
– Stir until thickened and add the cheese, stirring until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
– Pour half of the cheese sauce over the first layer of potatoes.
– Add the remaining potatoes and onions in another layer.
– Pour the remaining sauce and sprinkle with cayenne.
– Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove foil and bake for another 30 minutes.
– Let it rest before serving.
Storage Options
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the potatoes for later enjoyment.
Variations and Substitutions
– Creamy Twist: Swap sharp cheddar for Gruyère cheese for a milder flavor.
– Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon for a meatless version.
– Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
– Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
What to Serve With Sassy & Savory Au Gratin Potatoes
– Roast Chicken: The perfect pairing with these cheesy potatoes.
– Green Salad: Balance the richness with a simple salad.
– Garlic Bread: A classic side to soak up the delicious cheese sauce.
– Sparkling Water: Cleanse your palate with bubbles.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I use different cheeses?: Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.
– How long do these potatoes last?: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Can I make these ahead of time?: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.
– Can I add bacon to this recipe?: Absolutely, crispy bacon bits would add a delicious crunch.
After making these Sassy & Savory Au Gratin Potatoes, you can expect a dish that is creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. The slightly spicy kick from the cayenne pepper adds an extra dimension to the rich and comforting cheese sauce. Each bite will be a delightful blend of tender potatoes and melty cheese that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Sassy & Savory Au Gratin Potatoes
Ingredients
- 4-5 large potatoes potatoes peeled and sliced
- 1/2 onion onion diced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Peel and slice the potatoes.
- Butter a baking dish and layer the sliced potatoes. Sprinkle half of the diced onions over the potatoes.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan and add the flour. Add the salt, pepper, cayenne, and garlic powder. Pour in the milk.
- Stir until thickened and add the cheese, stirring until smooth.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the first layer of potatoes. Add the remaining potatoes and onions in another layer.
- Pour the remaining sauce and sprinkle with cayenne. Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove foil and bake for another 30 minutes. Let it rest before serving.