Indulge in Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes with Bacon and Herbs

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this mouthwatering recipe for Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes with Bacon and Herbs. Tender slices of potato are layered with a creamy, cheesy sauce, crispy bacon, and aromatic herbs for a side dish that’s sure to steal the show at any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast, a cozy Sunday supper, or just because, these cheesy au gratin potatoes will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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What are Au Gratin Potatoes?

Au gratin potatoes, also known as scalloped potatoes, are a classic baked potato dish that features thinly sliced potatoes layered with a rich, creamy sauce and topped with melted cheese. The name “au gratin” refers to the browned, crunchy topping that forms as the dish bakes in the oven.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

While traditional au gratin potatoes are delicious on their own, this recipe takes the dish to new heights by adding crispy bacon and a blend of fresh herbs. The smoky, salty bacon perfectly complements the creamy, cheesy sauce, while the thyme and rosemary add a fragrant, earthy note that elevates the entire dish. Plus, the use of roasted garlic takes the flavor profile to new levels of savory goodness.

Main Ingredients

To make these Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes with Bacon and Herbs, you’ll need the following key ingredients:

• Bacon: Crispy, salty bacon adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to the dish.
• Roasted Garlic: Roasting the garlic mellows out the flavor and adds a rich, caramelized note to the creamy sauce.
• Cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar and white cheddar cheeses creates a gooey, flavorful topping.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary provide fragrant, earthy notes that complement the other ingredients perfectly.
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamy, buttery texture that’s ideal for this dish.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

When it comes to au gratin potatoes, the type of potato you use can make a big difference. Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent choice because they have a rich, creamy texture that holds up well to the baking process. Their thin skin also means you don’t have to peel them, saving you time in the kitchen.

The Role of Cheese in This Dish

Cheese is an essential component of au gratin potatoes, as it creates the signature gooey, melted topping. In this recipe, we use a combination of sharp cheddar and white cheddar cheeses. The sharp cheddar provides a bold, tangy flavor, while the white cheddar adds a creamy, mild richness. Together, they create a harmonious balance of flavors that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Cook Bacon

Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside, reserving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter in the bacon fat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, then slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into the sauce and whisk to incorporate them.

Add Cheese and Herbs

Stir the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, paprika, thyme, and rosemary into the sauce until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and season with salt as needed.

Layer the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the bottom of the dish, then pour half of the cheese sauce over them. Sprinkle with half of the cooked bacon and shredded white cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sauce, bacon, and white cheddar.

Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the freshly baked Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes with Bacon and Herbs with chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Serve this decadent side dish warm and enjoy the irresistible combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors.

Tips for Perfect Au Gratin Potatoes

Choosing the Right Cheese

While cheddar is a classic choice for au gratin potatoes, you can experiment with other cheese varieties as well. Try adding a sprinkle of Parmesan or Gruyère for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Roast Garlic

To roast garlic, simply cut the top off a head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes, until the cloves are soft and golden. Squeeze the cloves out of the skins and use as directed in the recipe.

Adjusting Seasoning to Taste

Taste the cheese sauce before assembling the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your personal preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing with Main Dishes

Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes with Bacon and Herbs make an excellent side dish for a variety of main courses, such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham.

Ideal Occasions for Serving

This indulgent potato casserole is perfect for holiday gatherings, Sunday supper, or any time you’re craving a comforting, indulgent side dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Any leftover au gratin potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the potatoes in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Smoked Sausage and Cheddar Potato Gratin
• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake
• Bacon-Wrapped Taco Stuffed Meatballs

Frequently Asked Questions

How long are leftover au gratin potatoes good for?

Leftover au gratin potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

What does it mean when food is served au gratin?

The term “au gratin” refers to a dish that is topped with a browned, crunchy crust, usually made from breadcrumbs, cheese, or a combination of the two. In the case of au gratin potatoes, the potatoes are topped with a cheesy sauce and baked until the top is golden and crispy.

What kind of cheese is good in potatoes au gratin?

Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for au gratin potatoes, as it melts beautifully and provides a bold, tangy flavor. Other great options include Gruyère, Parmesan, and Fontina.

How to know when au gratin potatoes are done?

The au gratin potatoes are done when the top is golden brown and crispy, and the potatoes are fork-tender. You can also check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this mouthwatering recipe for Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes with Bacon and Herbs. The creamy, cheesy sauce, crispy bacon, and fragrant herbs make this dish an absolute showstopper. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, these au gratin potatoes are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and experience the irresistible combination of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for more.

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