Carey'S Au Gratin Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy au gratin potatoes with a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dice and boil the potatoes.
- Melt 12 tablespoons of butter and blend in the flour; gradually stir in the cream until thickened and boiling.
- Place the cooked potatoes in a baking dish.
- Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes and sprinkle with half of the grated cheese.
- Pour the remaining cream mixture over the potatoes and add the remaining cheese on top.
- Melt 4 tablespoons of butter and mix in the bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle the bread crumbs over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 400°F for approximately 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use half and half instead of light cream. You can also substitute the sharp cheese with Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a crispy topping, try adding some grated Parmesan to the bread crumbs. Make sure to season each layer of potatoes to enhance the dish's overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Carey’s Au Gratin Potatoes are a perfect side dish for any main course, especially during holidays or family gatherings. Serve alongside roasted meats or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with American recipes like Chili-Cheese Bake or can be enjoyed on their own as a comforting vegetarian option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carey'S Au Gratin Potatoes contains roughly 2279 calories, with 44g protein, 302g carbohydrates, and 98g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (102% of the Daily Value), protein (88% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1498mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and the cream mixture ahead of time. Assemble the dish without baking, cover it well, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
Can I freeze the au gratin potatoes?
Freezing is not recommended for this dish as it can affect the texture of the potatoes and the cream. However, if necessary, you can freeze the unbaked assembled dish. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator before baking, but expect some changes in texture after freezing.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. For a richer flavor, consider using ghee or coconut oil, but be aware that this might slightly alter the taste of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).