Are you craving a dish that's both comforting and undeniably delicious? Look no further than these creamy, dreamy Velveeta au gratin potatoes! This recipe elevates the classic au gratin potatoes to a whole new level of cheesy goodness, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Forget complicated techniques – this easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality results without the fuss. Get ready for a taste of pure comfort!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness!)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat evenly. This ensures each potato slice is seasoned perfectly.
Creating the Creamy Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is completely melted and smooth.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step creates a luxuriously smooth cheese sauce that will bind the potatoes beautifully.
Assembling and Baking the Au Gratin Potatoes
- Pour the cheese sauce over the seasoned potatoes, ensuring they are well coated. Gently stir to combine. Don't worry about breaking the potatoes too much—they’ll soften in the oven.
- Transfer the potato mixture to the prepared baking dish. Arrange the slices in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese (if using) over the top. This adds a lovely salty and sharp contrast to the creamy Velveeta.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. For extra browning, you can switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Serving and Enjoying Your Delicious Creation
- Let the au gratin potatoes rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of freshness and visual appeal. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, cheesy delight!
Tips for the Best Au Gratin Potatoes
- Thinly sliced potatoes: Using a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife ensures even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Allowing some space between the potatoes helps them cook evenly and get nicely browned.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or garlic to suit your preferences.
- Add-ins: Get creative! Consider adding cooked bacon, ham, or caramelized onions for extra flavor and texture.
Variations
- Spicy Au Gratin Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheddar Au Gratin Potatoes: Substitute sharp cheddar cheese for the Velveeta for a different flavor profile.
- Herb-infused Au Gratin Potatoes: Add a tablespoon of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cheese sauce for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: 20-25g Protein: 10-12g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This recipe is a delicious and relatively easy way to create a fantastic side dish or even a hearty main course. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a truly comforting and cheesy dish. Enjoy!