Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes (The Best Thanksgiving Potatoes EVER!)

Name: Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes (The Best Thanksgiving Potatoes EVER!)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Gruyere mix); 2 cups heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This creamy and decadent Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes recipe will steal the spotlight at your Thanksgiving feast. Layered with thinly sliced potatoes and smothered in a rich cheese sauce, these potatoes are baked to golden perfection. A comforting and satisfyingly cheesy side dish that pairs beautifully with turkey, stuffing, and all your favorite holiday dishes.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-10-22T13:28:23.633Z

This Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes dish is perfect for your Thanksgiving table!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent and creamy texture
Perfectly cheesy sauce
Easy to prepare and bake
A holiday favorite

      

The Perfect Side Dish for Thanksgiving

When it comes to Thanksgiving, side dishes are just as important as the main course. Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are an ideal complement to your turkey and stuffing, bringing a creamy, rich flavor that pleases everyone at the table. The layers of tender potatoes, combined with a decadent cheese sauce, create a harmony of textures and tastes that elevate any holiday meal.

Not only do these potatoes taste amazing, but they also add an appealing aesthetic to your spread. The golden-brown crust on top contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese underneath, making your food presentation not just inviting, but truly tantalizing. Guests will be drawn to this dish, and it may even become the star of your Thanksgiving table!

Simple Preparation with Delicious Results

Preparing Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is a breeze, making it perfect for even the busiest of cooks during the holiday season. With just a few simple steps—layering the potatoes, cheese, and cream—you'll have a satisfying dish that appears to have taken hours to prepare. This ease allows you to focus on other aspects of your holiday meal, letting you enjoy the time spent with family and friends.

Additionally, this dish can be made ahead of time. You can assemble it a day before and store it in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you're ready to serve, just pop it in the oven, and let the baking do the work—your house will be filled with the irresistible aroma of cheesy goodness!

Customization Options

One of the great things about Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is their versatility. While the classic recipe is outstanding, feel free to customize it to fit your family's taste preferences. You can add other vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or even caramelized onions for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition, creating a delightful medley of tastes in every bite.

Moreover, experimenting with different cheeses can add unique elements to your dish. While cheddar and Gruyere are a fantastic duo, other options like mozzarella, fontina, or even smoked Gouda can lend exciting flavors. By varying the ingredients, you can make this dish uniquely yours, ensuring that it becomes a cherished family recipe for years to come.

Ingredients

For the Au Gratin Potatoes

4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Gruyere mix)
2 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Layer Potatoes

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes.

Add Cheese and Cream

Sprinkle half of the cheese over the potatoes, then pour half of the cream over the cheese. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Repeat Layers

Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, cheese, and cream.

Add Breadcrumbs

If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.

Bake

Cover and bake for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.

Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Serve hot and enjoy this comforting side dish!

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers after your Thanksgiving feast, you're in for a treat! Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes store well in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover them tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to preserve their creamy texture. They can be kept in the fridge for up to three days.

To reheat, simply put the potatoes back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until they're heated through. Adding a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating can help to revive that gooey cheesy texture that makes them so delightful!

Pairing Suggestions

Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. They make an excellent accompaniment to classic Thanksgiving staples such as roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or herb-stuffed chicken. The creamy texture and rich flavor create a harmonious contrast to the savory meats, making every bite a culinary delight.

For a festive touch, consider serving these potatoes alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables. This not only enhances the nutritional value of your meal but also adds color and freshness to your holiday spread—an essential balance to the richness of the cheesy potatoes.

Celebrating with Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Making Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes part of your holiday tradition can add warmth and joy to your gatherings. They are not just a side dish; they can evoke fond memories of past celebrations and create new ones for years to come. As you savor each bite, you can enjoy the company of loved ones, united by this delicious dish.

Consider involving your family in the cooking process. Get your kids or grandkids in the kitchen to help layer the potatoes or sprinkle the cheese, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere. Cooking together fosters connection, and sharing this beloved recipe can instill a sense of culinary heritage that keeps your family traditions alive.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and bake it just before serving.

→ What type of potatoes work best?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for au gratin dishes.